Memento Park

As you no doubt know, Hungary had a long and often violent existence under Communist rule. When this ended on 23 October 1989, the 33rd anniversary of the 1956 revolution, Communist rule formally ended. On 19 June 1991, the Russian military occupation ended. This transition naturally required that something be done with all the statues erected during the occupation. That "something" is Memento Park. All the monuments (that survived the transition) were relocated to a park pretty far out on the Buda side of town. It was a long trip, but we jumped on a bus and went.

At the entrance to the park is this statue of Lenin. I do not know who might have placed the flowers at his feet but they were fresh. The only statue of Stalin in Budapest was destroyed in the 1956 revolution and no replacement was made. E has seen a hand of the statue in one of the museums here.



This freeze in Socialist Realism style depicts strong, forward looking people who wield tools and children with equal alacrity. Workers of the world unite!

Another characteristic of statues from this era is their great size and there were several examples of really large statues to be seen here.

Signage was not great, so I don't know if this was two particular people or just a couple men seen to be cooperating.

This are labeled and do appear to be specific people.

Inside, there is other statue of Lenin shown broadcasting his great plans to the people.

The worker's movement memorial shows the hands of the workers holding (shaping?) the world.

By far the most impressive monument is this fellow. E is standing next to him to give you the scale. He is really big.

A more striking angle is to look up from underneath to see him carry his banner.

Perhaps the most imposing view is of these fellow with the sun setting behind him.

Great place to see a little Soviet era history.