The last battle of World War II in Europe
The site of the last battle in our territory and in Europe
The last major battle of World War II in Europe took place in our territory near Slivice, near Příbram. The retreating German troops capitulated here under the onslaught of the Red Army on the morning of May 12, 1945.
A monument was erected at this location, right next to the current D4 highway, in 1970, and is listed in the list of immovable cultural monuments.
Memorial
The monument was unveiled on May 10, 1970. It is represented by two atypical tall columns made of white stone. In front of it are placed 3 blocks and a memorial stone plaque commemorating the date of May 11, 1945. The author of the work is Václav Hilský.
Memorial plaque
In front of both obelisks, a plaque with the engraved date of the local battle – May 11, 1945 – is placed on the terrace on a low plinth.
Battle
Tens of thousands of German soldiers tried to get to the west into American captivity. After the surrender, however, the Americans no longer allowed them to cross the demarcation line. The Germans were blocked in the Soviet sector. On the night of May 11–12, 1945, the troops of German General Karl von Pückler-Burghauss and the Red Army clashed in a decisive battle. The enemy's defensive area was first covered by Soviet artillery fire, then came the attack of ground troops. The Germans were defeated in this last significant battle of World War II in Europe and 6,000 Germans were captured.
Reconstruction of the battle and festivities
Battle reenactments and celebrations commemorating the event are regularly held around the monument.
