A ten-meter-high obelisk stands before us. It is a stark black monument. This is the Memorial to the Victims of the Soviet Occupation.
The Obelisk was erected in 2018. It commemorates the suffering endured during the Soviet occupation of Hungary. This wasn’t just about those sent to Gulag camps. It remembers all who suffered under the regime. This includes political prisoners those deported and those quietly suffering.
The monument’s location wasn’t its first choice. Originally intended for Szabadság Square it was moved to Óbuda. The reason the relocation happened remains vague. This possibly involved property issues. Óbuda’s largely German population suffered greatly during the Soviet occupation. The presence of the Katyn memorial nearby might also have influenced the decision. Menczer Erzsébet the president of SZORAKÉSZ played a role. She was an Óbuda resident and representative.
The sleek black obelisk bears an inscription. The inscription is in four languages Hungarian German Russian and English. It proclaims its purpose simply To the memory of the victims of the Soviet occupation. A barbed wire image is etched between the lines of text. The obelisk rests in a recessed circular base. The base consists of basalt blocks and polished basalt chips. Two concrete walls flank the obelisk. These walls are planted with vegetation. Subtle lighting highlights the memorial. Two spotlights illuminate the obelisk itself. LED lights highlight the side walls. One wall displays a plaque. The plaque credits SZORAKÉSZ and the Gulag Memorial Committee for the creation.
The inauguration was intentional. It took place on June 19 2018. This date marks the anniversary of the departure of the last Soviet troops from Hungary. This was in 1991 under the command of Viktor Silov.
This sombre monument serves as a poignant reminder. It recalls the hardships experienced by many during the Soviet occupation. The Obelisk stands as a testament to their resilience and sacrifice. It is also a promise that history will not be forgotten.