On Khortytsia Island in Zaporizhzhia, the official opening of the first phase of the Park of Honor took place — a large-scale memorial space created just 30 kilometers from the frontline. This living memorial is dedicated to Ukrainian servicemen who gave their lives defending the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity against Russian aggression. The initiative to create such a landmark place came directly from the families of fallen soldiers, combat veterans, and activists of the NGO 'Razom.UA', who joined forces to immortalize the memory of the heroes.
Creation and Development of the Memorial Space
The idea of establishing the park traveled a long way from a public concept to implementation on the territory of the Khortytsia National Reserve. Activists and relatives of the deceased independently chose the site, cleared it of overgrowth and debris. The core concept became a memorial garden, where more than 400 personalized trees have already been planted, each dedicated to a specific defender. The first saplings appeared here back in April 2025, when families planted 88 trees. It is planned that up to 1,500 green spaces will eventually appear on the total area of five hectares, which will be maintained by the reserve's specialists.
Symbolism and Architecture of the Park of Honor
The central composition of the memorial is a symbolic circle formed around a water reservoir called the 'Source of Life', as well as a composition of ancient stones. The space's concept harmoniously intertwines basic natural elements: water, trees, stones, fire, and light. During the opening ceremony, a deep artistic performance called the 'Circle of Memory' took place, uniting centuries of Ukrainian struggle, Cossack heritage, and modern combat experience. Participants used water from the 'Source of Life' to water the trees planted in honor of their relatives, and the opening concluded with symbolic bell ringing and the lighting of a church installation.
Significance of the Initiative for Society
As emphasized by Zaporizhzhia City Council Secretary Regina Harchenko, the new space is conceived as a place of sacral memory, silence, and deep respect for the fallen Defenders. Opening the park near the active combat zone demonstrates the unbreakable spirit of Ukrainian society and the importance of preserving historical memory for future generations. The project unites the efforts of the state, local communities, volunteers, and families of fallen heroes, creating a unique ecosystem of memory that will live and grow alongside the planted trees.
