The Wings Monument in Bucharest is a memorial to people who fought for freedom during the country’s communist rule. You’ll find it in Piața Presei Libere, in front of Casa Presei Libere, where its three soaring wings form a landmark in the city’s north.
- Location: Piața Presei Libere, in front of Casa Presei Libere
- Nearby landmarks: the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum is 1 kilometre southeast; the Triumphal Arch is 1.5 kilometres south
- Memorial day: annual ceremonies take place on 9 March
What the Wings Monument commemorates
The Wings Monument honours those who resisted communist rule in Romania and Bessarabia between 1945 and 1989. Its inscription reads, “In memory of the fighters in the anti-communist resistance 1945–1989.” The Romanian Institute for the Investigation of Communist Crimes and the Memory of the Romanian Exile describes it as a tribute to anti-communist resistance fighters from both places.
The monument is officially called Monumentul „Aripi” and is also known as the Monument of the Anti-Communist Struggle. The project began in 1997, initiated by the Association of Former Political Prisoners of Romania and supported by former president Emil Constantinescu. Sculptor Mihai Buculei won the design competition in 1999; financial and technical difficulties delayed completion until 2015.
Three stainless-steel wings clad in patinated bronze rise above a plinth. The wings are 24 metres high and the plinth is 4 metres high.
The plinth represents an imagined tomb for the thousands of unknown graves of Romanian citizens who died in communist prisons, camps and other detention sites. The wings represent the Holy Trinity and the souls of victims rising toward heaven.
Annual memorial ceremonies take place at the monument on 9 March, Romania’s Day of Anticommunist Political Prisoners. The observances include religious services, military honors and wreath-laying.
Where to view the monument
The monument stands in the open square in front of Casa Presei Libere, making the building a clear reference point when you arrive. It is close to Mihai I Park, also known as Herăstrău Park, and Șoseaua București–Ploiești. The square’s setting lets you view the sculptural forms from outside without treating the memorial as an indoor attraction.
For context on the building opposite the monument, the House of Free Press in Bucharest is another landmark to include in your visit. Take time to read the inscription and consider the memorial’s symbolism as you look up at the three wings.
Getting there from Băneasa
The monument is in Piața Presei Libere, directly in front of Casa Presei Libere. From Baneasa Parc rooms, it is about 3.2 km away, with a trip of about 10 minutes by car or 46 minutes on foot.
Before you go, check the official site for current practical details.
If you’re planning a wider north-Bucharest outing, the north Bucharest route also covers the area.
Pairing the stop with nearby landmarks
The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum is 1 kilometre southeast of the monument, while the Triumphal Arch is 1.5 kilometres south. Their locations make them natural points to consider when planning a north-to-south sequence around Piața Presei Libere. The monument itself is also near Mihai I Park, so you can combine the memorial with the park area.
FAQs
What is the official name of the Wings Monument?
Its Romanian name is Monumentul „Aripi”. It is also known as the Monument of the Anti-Communist Struggle.
Who designed the Wings Monument?
Sculptor Mihai Buculei won the design competition in 1999.
What do the three wings represent?
The wings represent the Holy Trinity and carry the souls of victims of the communist regime toward heaven.
Are there annual ceremonies at the monument?
Yes. Memorial ceremonies are held on 9 March, Romania’s Day of Anticommunist Political Prisoners, with religious services, military honors and wreath-laying.