Атаманский лес, War memorial in Stary Oskol, Russia.
Ataman Forest is a war memorial in Stary Oskol featuring two concrete pylons connected by a model of the Order of the Patriotic War, alongside two division cannons from 1942. The complex has been renovated with new steps, lighting systems, benches, and information displays for visitors.
The site holds the largest mass grave in Belgorod Region with over 2,000 Soviet soldiers who died during military operations in 1942-1943. This makes it a major burial ground remembering those who fell during the early years of the war.
Schools in the area use this site for educational programs where students learn about military history through information displays and guided tours. It has become a place where the local community gathers to remember and honor those who fell during the conflict.
The site is accessible with paved paths, lighting, and seating areas making it comfortable to visit at any time of day. It is best explored during daylight hours when you can clearly read the information displays and see the monuments and cannons.
Search teams continue to discover remains of Soviet soldiers in the surrounding forest, leading to regular reburials at the site. This ongoing identification and burial of fallen troops means the memorial remains active as a place of remembrance even today.
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