Monument of Gratitude to France, Historic monument in Kalemegdan Park, Belgrade, Serbia.
The Monument of Gratitude to France is a bronze statue on a marble pedestal located in Kalemegdan Park. The sculpture depicts a female figure gazing forward with raised fists as a symbol of strength and solidarity.
The monument was inaugurated on November 11, 1930, honoring France's support to Serbia during World War I. The date commemorates the evacuation of Serbian forces, which was facilitated by French assistance during the conflict.
The sculpture by Croatian artist Ivan Meštrović depicts a woman embodying France with a determined expression and raised fists as a gesture of strength. The work was crafted from 14 bronze pieces cast using lost-wax technique and placed on a marble base from Brač.
The monument sits in Kalemegdan Park and is clearly visible from multiple pathways within the park. A comprehensive reconstruction completed in 2018 strengthened the structure and protected the statue from water damage and corrosion.
This is the only monument in the world dedicated to expressing gratitude toward an entire nation rather than specific individuals. This unusual concept makes it a rare example of international recognition expressed through monumental art.
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