This was situated in a very ordinary, everyday square in Helsinki. It is an extraordinary memorial to the thousands and thousands of Finnish men and women who died in the second world war. All of the Baltic States - Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Finland were subjected to the most horrific occupations and forced resettlements, forced conscriptions into the invading armies - brothers ended up fighting each other in opposing armies- , purging of their civilian populations and bombardment by invading forces. This memorial has viewing portholes which allow you to view photos of Finnish soldiers fighting against invading forces in the snow and sleet. The soldier featured on the viewing sphere has been penetrated by large bullet holes from all directions. It is a powerful image - stark against the classical buildings lining the square.
Yes, as you say, a very powerful image. Finland and the Baltic countries have seen more than their fair share of war troubles. The Finns were fighting the Russians before the German occupation. Amazing history.
@golftragic Hi Marnie - yes - we have learnt so much history on our travels through these countries. It is incredible what they have gone through - recently and over many centuries. And it is so heart warming to be seeing them grasp their new futures as independent countries. It had also made us realise how very lucky we have been to live where we do. :)
@skippysue Hi Susan - there are so many very poignant aspects to these countries - it gives a definite perspective to what you try to catch in your photos. Thank you for your comment.
@sarahlth Thanks Sarah - it's nice to hear from you. I'm sorry I haven't been very active on 365. I am trying to keep up with the 52 week project though - I'm just going to go now and have a look at your post for the "eye line' week - this one was a bit tricky! :)
@rosie00 Hi Lesley - thanks for your interest. We have learnt so much history since we started travelling through these countries. It is so heart rending!
@4rky Thanks for your comment 4rky. The monument was so stark in its surrounds - it seemed to be diminished when all of the background was in its normal state - so I'm really pleased to hear you say that you thought the muted tones worked well. Thanks again Cheers Rob
@robz That's the thought I come home to every time we go overseas, no matter how interesting the places we've visited are. Australia is really the Lucky Country.
September 16th, 2018
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The muted background tones make the sculpture stand out really well