Russian Monument, War memorial in Schellenberg, Liechtenstein
The Russian Monument is a stone structure in Schellenberg erected to commemorate soldiers from the First Russian National Army who arrived in Liechtenstein seeking safety in 1945. Inscriptions on the memorial record the names and details of these men who crossed the border during the final days of the war.
Around 500 soldiers led by General Holmston-Smyslowsky crossed from Austria into Liechtenstein in early May 1945 requesting asylum. The principality granted them protection and refused Soviet demands for their return.
The monument reflects Liechtenstein's stand for protecting those in need, as the country resisted Soviet pressure to force soldiers back home. Visitors can sense how this small nation held to its principles during difficult times.
The monument sits near the Austrian border and is easily reached by following signs from Hinterschellenberg toward the site. Wear proper walking shoes since the path crosses hilly terrain on the way to the memorial.
Visitors can also visit the historic Wirtschaft zum Löwen, a traditional inn nearby where initial asylum talks took place. The old tavern gives a sense of how events unfolded in May 1945 at the local level.
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