Shoes on the Danube Bank is a poignant and symbolic memorial located on the banks of the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary. It serves as a powerful reminder of the tragic events that took place during the Holocaust in Hungary.

The memorial consists of sixty pairs of iron shoes, representing the footwear left behind by Jewish victims who were executed along the riverbank by fascist Arrow Cross militiamen during World War II. The victims, ordered to remove their shoes before being shot, were then thrown into the river, carried away by the currents.

Created by sculptor Gyula Pauer and film director Can Togay, the memorial was unveiled in 2005 to honor the memory of those who lost their lives during this dark period of history. The placement of the shoes directly on the riverbank creates a somber and moving image, inviting contemplation and reflection on the human toll of hatred and prejudice.

The Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust and the importance of remembering and honoring the victims. It stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of the Jewish community in Hungary, while also reminding visitors of the need for tolerance, compassion, and vigilance against discrimination. Photo by