The Russian Chapel is a wooden memorial dedicated to the Russian prisoners of war who died during the construction of the mountain road over the Vršič pass.

The road was built in the spring of 1916 by more than 10,000 Russian war prisoners. Working in extreme conditions, many lost their lives due to exhaustion, disease, and a massive avalanche that struck in March 1916. Prisoners built this wooden church in memory of their suffering and deceased companions. Nearby the church is a tomb marked by a pyramid with the Russian inscription: "To the sons of Russia".

Today, the chapel stands as a symbol of peace and a reminder of the historical ties between Slovenia and Russia, with annual commemorative ceremonies held every July.

Detailed Information & History