Japan - Hiroshima Peace Memorial

About

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial, also known as the Atomic Bomb Dome, is a powerful symbol of peace and a memorial to the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Originally built in 1915 as the Hiroshima Prefectural Commercial Exhibition Hall by Czech architect Jan Letzel, it was one of the few structures to remain standing after the blast. The building's survival is a testament to its strong construction, despite being only about 160 meters from the hypocenter of the explosion. Today, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial is part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park includes the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which documents the history of the bombing and its aftermath, and the Cenotaph for the Atomic Bomb Victims. The site is a poignant reminder of the devastating effects of nuclear warfare and serves as a call for lasting peace. Each year, a memorial ceremony is held on August 6 to honor the victims of the bombing. The park attracts millions of visitors annually, making it a significant historical and cultural site in Japan.