What do the sculptures represent?

The bronze figures depict grieving mothers, sisters, and wives of fallen soldiers. Women in front hold lamps symbolizing hope, while those behind appear petrified by grief. The weeping angel represents the sorrow of being unable to protect the soldiers.

How many Belarusians served in Afghanistan?

More than 30,000 Belarusians participated in the Soviet-Afghan War. Approximately 800 soldiers died, with 771 commemorated at this memorial. Many more returned with injuries or as prisoners. The memorial serves as a place of remembrance for all affected.

Island of Tears in Minsk

The Island of Tears (Ostrov Slyoz), officially the Island of Courage and Sorrow, is a poignant memorial on a small artificial island in the Svislach River. Unveiled in 1996, it commemorates the 771 Belarusian soldiers who died in the Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989). At its heart stands a chapel surrounded by haunting bronze statues of grieving mothers, sisters, and wives. A weeping angel sculpture symbolizes the inability to protect the fallen. The island itself represents a teardrop, while the chapels five domes signify the five combat zones in Afghanistan.

Island of Tears

Practical Information

Visit Duration

Entrance Fee

Best Time to Visit

Crowd Level

How to Get There

What to Expect

Connectivity & Services

Working Hours

faq.title

Travel Tips

Reviews

Questions & Answers

Weather

Upper Town

National Library of Belarus

Gorky Park

Trinity Suburb

Independence Square

Red Church

Museum of the Great Patriotic War

Gates of Minsk