The occupation of the regional center lasted nearly three years: from July 11, 1941 to June 26, 1944. When the Soviet army entered the city, it was in ruins. The liberators were met by 118 residents, the only, who survived in Vitebsk out of 180 thousand who lived there before the war. The memory of victims was honored by a moment of silence. Wreaths and flowers were laid at the eternal flame, which burns at the main square, the Victory Square. Today, Vitebsk is a beautiful and modern city, industrial center, capital of cultural life and city of youth.
Vladimir Belevich, Chairman of the Vitebsk City Council of Deputies:
“Vitebsk today is proud of its residents. These are the people who once restored this city after the destruction, these are the people who restored the industry, these are the people who live now. A handful of land from Vitebsk will be taken away to Yaroslavl Region.”
Vitebsk is linked by partner and friendly relations with many cities and regions of other countries. Guests from Yaroslavl took part in the celebrations to mark the anniversary of the liberation of the regional center from the Nazi invaders. From Vitebsk they'll take a handful of earth which will be buried on the war memorial of Vsekhsviatsky Cemetery in the city of Rybinsk, where the earth brought from the cities of military glory, mass graves, concentration camps, places of symbolic battles is stored.
Vitebsk marks 78th anniversary of liberation from Nazi invaders
26 июня 2022












