The memory that survived

105 years after one of the most important battles of the Polish-Bolshevik War, words of prayer and remembrance once again echoed in the hills near Dytiatyn in western Ukraine. On September 20, 2025, Poles and Ukrainians met to honor the heroes who gave their lives in defense of their homeland in 1920.

On September 16, 2023, another anniversary commemoration of the heroes of the 1920 battle took place at the Dytiatyn War Cemetery. In an atmosphere of reflection, prayer, and thought, flowers and candles were laid, reminding us of the values of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice for the homeland, which remain relevant today.

The 102nd anniversary of the Battle of Dytiatyn has become a symbol of remembrance and patriotism, overshadowed by contemporary events in Ukraine. Despite the difficult times, commemorative ceremonies were held to commemorate the "Polish Thermopylae," highlighting the soldiers' heroism and the importance of historical heritage for future generations.

On July 22nd, Mr. Petro Hrudzewycz passed away – a courageous defender of the cross from the grave of Polish soldiers in Dytiatyn, a guardian of memory and a symbol of courage. His deed will forever remain a part of the history of this place.

Dytiatyn – the site of the Polish Thermopylae. Every year, Poles, Ukrainians, and government officials pay tribute to the heroes of the 1920 battle who faced a much stronger enemy. The anniversary ceremonies combine remembrance, prayer, and reflection on values that endure.

The Battle of Dytiatyn on September 16, 1920, known as the Polish Thermopylae, is a story of heroism, sacrifice, and fighting to the last man. In the shadow of the victories of the Battle of Warsaw and the Niemen, a handful of Polish artillerymen and infantrymen stood against a much stronger enemy, covering the southern flank of the front and forever etching themselves into the history of Polish arms.

On September 19, 2020, ceremonies commemorating the centennial of the battle with the Bolsheviks were held at the Polish War Cemetery near Dytiatyn. Poles and Ukrainians, representatives of the authorities, and the clergy participated in prayer and reflection, paying tribute to the heroes of the "Polish Thermopylae" and emphasizing the importance of shared historical memory.

Every year, Poles and Ukrainians gather on Dytiatyn Hill to pay tribute to the heroes of one of the most heroic, yet least known, battles of the Polish-Bolshevik War. This place, a symbol of Polish-Ukrainian brotherhood in arms, combines historical memory with reflection on the present and values that remain relevant.

A journey to Dytiatyn is a journey through a landscape rich in traces of Polish history – from sanctuaries and forgotten churches to small villages and dilapidated roads. The route leads to the Polish War Cemetery in Dytiatyn – a place of remembrance and symbol of the heroism of the soldiers of 1920.