Nanjing Monument to the Aviator Martyrs

Nanjing Monument to the Aviator Martyrs is a memorial site in Nanjing featuring pagodas, pavilions, altars, and a cemetery that occupy the northern section of Zhong Shan. The grounds display a mix of traditional architectural forms spread across a large area.

Established in 1932, this site honors around 4,300 aviators including Chinese and foreign pilots who died between 1932 and 1949. It serves as a testament to the aerial conflicts that occurred during these turbulent decades.

The names of fallen aviators are inscribed in Chinese, English, and Russian on memorial stones, reflecting the international scope of their sacrifice. These inscriptions show how people from different nations came together in a shared struggle.

Visitors can attend the annual commemorative ceremony held on March 29, which coincides with the Memorial Day for Revolutionary Martyrs. The grounds are accessible on foot and allow time for quiet reflection among the many graves.

Individual graves display original clothing of some martyrs along with detailed inscriptions showing their names, origins, and dates of death. These personal items make each aviator's story tangible and immediate.