Victims of evil monument, Plzeň Travel Guide

The Victims of Evil Monument, also known as the Meditation Garden, is a unique and poignant memorial in Plzeň, Czech Republic. Created by Luboš Hruška, a former political prisoner, the garden serves as a reminder of the horrors inflicted by totalitarian regimes, both Nazi and Communist. Hruška transformed his family's orchard into a serene landscape of remembrance and healing.The garden features hundreds of treasured coniferous trees, two ponds, and a chapel dedicated to St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Polish priest who sacrificed his life in Auschwitz. A notable feature is the Way of the Cross, with twelve sandstone sculptures created by academic sculptor Roman Podrázský. These sculptures and the garden's design evoke the suffering and resilience of the victims.Opened to the public after the Velvet Revolution in 1990, the garden provides a space for quiet contemplation and reflection. In 1995, Hruška donated the garden to the Pilsen bishopric, ensuring its preservation as a public space for religious and cultural purposes. Despite its relatively small size, the garden offers a strong sense of community and tranquility, making it a cherished destination for locals and travelers alike.