Oltar domovine, Medvedgrad, Memorial monument at Medvedgrad fortress, Croatia
The Altar of the Homeland is a monument at Medvedgrad fortress consisting of stone blocks of varying heights and six blue glass panels arranged in the shape of Croatia's coat of arms. The structure stands before the southern rampart and combines different artistic elements into a unified composition.
The monument was inaugurated on May 30, 1994, during Croatian Statehood Day, with President Franjo Tuđman presiding over the opening ceremony at Medvedgrad fortress. It was built during a time when the nation was redefining itself following the recent war.
The stone blocks display Croatian motifs from medieval times and verses from the national anthem, while an eternal flame honors those who died in war.
The monument stands before the southern rampart of the fortress and requires climbing the mountain path for roughly 40 minutes from Zagreb. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions at higher elevations.
The site was the location of President Tuđman's last public appearance in November 1999, just weeks before his death in December of that year. This place therefore marks the end of a significant chapter in Croatian history.
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