Memorial Eternal Flame

The Eternal Flame Memorial is the heart of the historical memory of Surgut and one of the most significant monuments that Russia takes pride in. Officially known as the Memorial of Glory, the complex is dedicated to the immortal feat of the soldiers from Surgut who gave their lives during the Great Patriotic War.

At the center of the ensemble stands a majestic concrete obelisk, at the base of which a sacred flame has burned continuously since 1975. Surrounding it are 16 memorial plaques bearing the names of 1,240 fallen soldiers, serving as a reminder of the high price of peace. The site is further distinguished by bronze busts of Twice Heroes of the Soviet Union and the elegant Chapel of the Holy Life-Giving Trinity, built in the traditions of northern architecture.

Today, it is not just a historical site but a cultural center where generations meet. Located on the former Trinity Square, the memorial combines the austere beauty of granite steles shaped like bayonets with the tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds, making it a must-visit for every traveler.

To pay your respects and see one of the region's most significant architectural ensembles, it is worth checking its location in advance. This complex is a landmark on the city map and is easily recognizable due to its scale. Below is the official address information to help you find your way.

A visit to the memorial is, first and foremost, an opportunity to pay tribute to the heroes of the past. Traditionally, visitors bring flowers to the Eternal Flame and spend a few moments of silence by the plaques where the names of the defenders of the Motherland are inscribed. Be sure to notice the busts of famous Surgut residents—Ivan Korolkov and Tulebay Azhimov, whose deeds became legendary.

In addition to the memorial portion, it is worth examining the architectural details of the complex. The bayonet-shaped steles, added for the Victory anniversary, and the stone chapel standing on the site of a destroyed historic church are quite photogenic. Its appearance harmoniously complements the austere style of the monument, creating a unified space for reflection.

Thanks to its central location, a visit to the Eternal Flame can be combined with a stroll across the square, which often hosts patriotic events and exhibitions. In winter, the complex is beautifully illuminated, and in summer, the square in front of the «Oktyabr» cinema becomes a popular spot for locals to relax and take quiet walks.

The memorial is conveniently located in the central part of the city at 30 Gagarina St, near the Oktyabr cinema and the scenic pier on the Ob River. Thanks to this location, getting here is easy both by public transport and on foot while walking through the center.

If you are planning to travel by bus, routes No. 2, 4, 13, or 20 will work for you. You should get off at the Gagarin Square (Ploshchad Gagarina) stop, which is in the immediate vicinity of the complex. For those arriving from the airport, it is most convenient to use a taxi service—the trip will take about 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.

Parking spaces are provided near the square for motorists. Additionally, in the summer, a visit to the memorial can be combined with a boat trip, as it is within walking distance of the city pier and the landscaped embankment.

The history of this site began in 1921 on the former Trinity Square, when a mass grave for the defenders of Soviet power appeared here. Over time, the modest burial site transformed into a grand symbol of memory: in 1937, the wooden obelisk was replaced with an elegant marble stele designed by artist Veniamin Koltsov.

The memorial complex began taking its modern shape in 1968 at the initiative of veteran and local historian Flegont Pokazanyev. It was then that the monumental concrete obelisk and plaques with the names of Surgut residents who did not return from the fronts of the Great Patriotic War were installed. Later, in 1975, gas was supplied to the memorial, and the Eternal Flame was solemnly lit.

In the following decades, the complex continued to evolve: in 1995, for the 50th anniversary of Victory, bayonet-shaped steles and the Chapel of the Holy Life-Giving Trinity, built on the site of a destroyed ancient temple, were added. A major reconstruction in 2004–2005 adorned the square with granite and busts of celebrated heroes—Tulebay Azhimov and Ivan Korolkov—finalizing the solemn ensemble we see today.

For a standard tour of the memorial complex, which includes visiting the Eternal Flame, reading the memorial plaques, and viewing the heroes' busts, 30–45 minutes is usually sufficient. This is enough time to feel the atmosphere of the place and take commemorative photos.

If you plan to visit the Chapel of the Holy Life-Giving Trinity, study the inscriptions on the steles in detail, and walk around the surrounding square, it is better to budget about 1–1.5 hours for the visit. The memorial is often included in city sightseeing tours as it is one of the key historical locations.

The Eternal Flame Memorial is open to visitors 24 hours a day, daily. The lack of fencing and the open layout of the square allow you to come here at any convenient time—whether in bright daylight or in the evening hours, when the flame looks especially expressive against the twilight.

It is worth noting that the Chapel of the Holy Life-Giving Trinity may have its own operating schedule, which is best checked on official resources or information boards on-site. On public holidays, solemn ceremonies may be held on the square, which should be considered when planning your visit.

A walk around the vicinity of the memorial will allow you to immerse yourself deeper in the city's atmosphere and see how history exists alongside modern entertainment. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for further exploration of local attractions.

Nearby, you will find both thematic monuments dedicated to the labor of Northern residents and modern parks where you can relax with the whole family. Here is a list of sites within walking or short driving distance: