3. Ödül, Memorial Center Dedicated to the Battle of Mojkovac

Rakun Mimarlık'ın “Memorial Center dedicated to the Battle of Mojkovac ” Uluslararası Mimari Proje Yarışması için tasarladığı proje, 3. ödülü kazandı.

Proje Raporu:

In the Mist of Time

The memorial site named “In the Mist of Time” is located on a hill in Mojkovac, overlooking the city. This project is a tribute to Montenegro’s rich history and cultural heritage. The monument, harmoniously designed with the natural beauty of the region, features an elegant design.

Building Design:

At the center of the memorial site stands a structure with a triangular roof, referencing traditional Montenegrin architecture. This architectural approach reflects the aesthetic and functional characteristics of buildings typical to the region, combining traditional elements with modern touches. Essentially, the monument is envisioned as a large house with a “Floating” City Roof, further emphasizing its significance and symbolism.

Historical and Cultural Context:

This monument is dedicated to the memory of the Battle of Mojkovac. The battle symbolizes the brave defense of the local population in protecting their homes and lives. “In the Mist of Time” is designed to honor this historical event and the heroism of the local people. The battle, which lasted only one day due to harsh weather conditions, demonstrates the determination and resilience of the Montenegrin army under extreme cold and heavy snow.

Landscape and Environmental Design:

The memorial is integrated into its natural surroundings. Located in a wooded and green area, the structure offers visitors an experience immersed in nature. Its position on the hill allows for a view of the city while ensuring that the monument is visible from the city as well. This design approach ensures that the monument has a strong physical and emotional impact.

Commemoration and Visitor Experience:

The visitor center includes various exhibition and memorial spaces for preserving and sharing the history and memories of the battle. The interior houses interactive exhibits and informative panels detailing the period and conditions of the war. The exterior provides a quiet and respectful place for commemoration, offering visitors a space for learning and reflection.

The memorial offers a special space for visitors to learn and reflect in the peace of the surrounding landscape. The entrance plaza, defined by rows of stone seating, creates a space within the choreographed natural setting, while harmoniously blending with the larger context. The plaza and path are embedded in the landscape, giving the impression of walking through trenches. This gentle descent leads visitors into the warm, layered aesthetic space of the triangular wooden interior of the Visitor Center.

The building, framed within the front panel, is embedded into the sloped terrain with its floor below ground level. Openings provide a unique panoramic perspective, allowing visitors to view the typical topography and scattered trees from a lower vantage point. At the center of the structure, the walls form a 14 x 14 meter square that supports the weight of the front panel.

The “In the Mist of Time” project represents a significant memorial site aimed at preserving and transmitting the history and cultural heritage of Mojkovac to future generations. By combining traditional architecture with modern design, this structure offers visitors an unforgettable experience while paying homage to the region’s history.