German Military Cemetery aka Sutthoffi Park
On the way from Narva to Narva-Jõesuu lies the German Military Cemetery aka Sutthoffi Park. Here rest the Wehrmacht soldiers who fell during World War II. The German War Graves Commission maintains the cemetery.
The History of the German Cemetery in Narva
In January 1944, the Red Army troops located near Leningrad, around Lake Ilmen, broke through the encirclement and made a push to Pskov and Narva. In the spring of the same year, attempting to dislodge the German troops from Narva, Soviet forces subjected the city to heavy bombardment, almost destroying its historic center. However, in March, the fascist forces reoccupied the city, only to be expelled by the end of July after the battle of Sinimäe.
The German cemetery in Narva was established in 1943, initially burying 4,000 Wehrmacht soldiers. After the war, the cemetery was demolished, its graves leveled with the ground, transforming the area into a park. Restoration began in 1995, initially focusing on marking the burial boundaries. Extensive landscaping took place from 1997 to 1999.
Today, the German Military Cemetery in Narva is the final resting place for 15,000 soldiers who fought for Nazi Germany, fallen in battles at Narva and Sinimäe. The first post-war reburial of Wehrmacht soldiers’ ashes at the Narva cemetery took place in 1998. Over the next ten years, the remains of more than 10,000 soldiers who died in other regions of Estonia were also buried here.
Location on the Map
Other Places of Interest
- One of Narva’s main attractions is the Dark Garden, an ancient park also known as the Upper Promenade.
- For a healthy leisure time, visit Joaorg Recreation Area, featuring a city beach by the river.
- Don’t miss Narva’s main landmark – Narva Castle. Today, it houses a city museum with an interesting exhibition.