Monument of Glory, Samara

When you visit Slavy Square in the city centre of Samara, Russia (formerly known as Kuybyshev), you will encounter the Monument of Glory, one of the city's most prominent symbols. Situated in the Leninsky district, this striking landmark overlooks the Volga River to the north-west. The site honors the dedicated workers of the Soviet Union's aircraft industry. During the Second World War, Kuybyshev served as a major manufacturing hub where workers at factories No.

1 and No. 18 built 28,000 Ilyushin Il-2 and Ilyushin Il-10 ground-attack aircraft, making up 80 percent of the inventory. Designed by Moscow sculptors Pavel Bondarenko and Oleg Kiryuhin alongside architect A. Samsonov, the centerpiece features a thirteen-meter-tall figure forged from high alloy steel holding raised wings above his head.

This figure stands atop an impressive forty-meter pedestal designed to symbolize a ray of light rising into the sky. Built between 1968 and 1971, the memorial carries a unique community story: it was funded through single-rouble donations from local plant workers. The official opening ceremony took place on November 5, 1971. You should visit to marvel at this massive steel sculpture and reflect on Samara's pivotal role in aviation history.

What to see at Monument of Glory, Samara

• 13-meter high-alloy steel figure with wings raised above his head
• 40-meter pedestal symbolizing a ray of light rising to the sky
• Overlooks the Volga river to the north-west from Slavy Square
• Erected via single-rouble donations from local production plant workers
• Honors WWII workers who produced 80 percent of Il-2 and Il-10 aircraft

Visiting tips

Take time while exploring Slavy Square to appreciate the landmark's design and its elevated position overlooking the Volga river to the north-west.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Monument of Glory, Samara is easy to reach on Samara’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Samara Mosque and Sacred Heart Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Samara travel guide.