On this day in 2015, Kosova unveiled a monument that pays tribute to the heroic women who made immense sacrifices during the war. Known as Heroinat, this remarkable typographic sculpture stands as the first of its kind in the country, shining a light on the often overlooked contributions of women. Located opposite the ‘Palace of Youth and Sports’, Heroinat is a symbol of remembrance and empowerment.

This initiative was spearheaded by Alma Lama, a Member of Parliament at that time, who championed the cause, ensuring that Kosovo’s national budget for 2013 included the construction of this war memorial exclusively dedicated to women. Her vision sought to challenge the prevailing norm where commemoration predominantly focuses on fallen soldiers, neglecting the invaluable role women played in the war.

The inauguration of Heroinat marks a significant turning point, reshaping the narrative surrounding Kosovo’s history and acknowledging the bravery and sacrifices of women. It stands as a testament to their resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit.

HEROINAT’s design incorporates 20,000 pins, arranged to form the image of a woman. Each pin represents a woman who experienced the horrific act of rape during the Kosovo War from 1998 to 1999. The varying heights of the pins create a textured relief, adding depth and dimension to the portrait.

The sculpture offers a dual perspective for viewers, allowing a closer connection to the individual portraits and a collective view from a distance. Originally conceived as part of a memorial competition in Prishtina during the autumn of 2013, the design of the Heroinat Memorial triumphed, becoming an enduring symbol of remembrance and resilience.