Nanjing Monument to the Aviator Martyrs, Memorial cemetery in Nanjing, China
The Nanjing Monument to the Aviator Martyrs is a memorial site on the northern slope of Zhong Shan in Nanjing, Jiangsu. It includes pagodas, pavilions, altars, and a cemetery, all built in a traditional Chinese architectural style.
The site was established in 1932 to honor pilots from China and other countries who died between 1932 and 1949. It grew over those years as more aviators were buried there following the aerial conflicts of that period.
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.
The grounds are on the northern slope of Zhong Shan and are easy to explore on foot. If you want to attend the annual ceremony held on March 29, plan your visit around that date.
Many of the grave markers carry inscriptions in Chinese, English, and Russian, showing that pilots from several countries are buried here side by side. Some graves also contain original clothing of the person buried there, which gives each story a personal and tangible quality.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
