The Trnava Region has started building the Freedom of Speech Memorial in Veľká Mača in commemoration of investigative journalist Ján Kuciak and his fiancée Martina Kušnírová who were murdered in 2018. Excavation work is underway for a retaining wall and future greenery on the site of their former home.
The memorial, called ‘The Garden,’ is designed to evoke reflection and emotions rather than follow a traditional monument style. It was created by designers Benjamín Brádňanský, Vít Halada, and Martin Piaček, with completion and unveiling planned for 2026.
Regional chairman Jozef Viskupič highlighted the importance of remembering freedom of speech and truth as core Slovak values. The parents of the victims expressed gratitude for the memorial but said they would rather be visiting their children at home, reminding all why such tragedies must never happen again.
Source: TASR
