When creating and developing the image of Klaipėda as a port city with long maritime traditions, the Port Authority and port companies plan to implement an idea proposed by journalists: club “Marinus“ – to build a monument to forgone Lithuanian seafarers and sunken ships. The symbol of the monument is the albatross - a bird of courage and freedom. The 10 m high sculptural composition of metal leaves will tower on Smiltynė coast near the Lithuanian Maritime Museum. Carved in granite leaves will be the names and surnames of Lithuanian seafarers, sailors and fishermen and their vessels who went to sea and did not return. Intentional lighting will highlight the monument for ships coming into the port. Nearby there will be special areas for organizing mass events.  

 

Sculptor Klaudijus Pūdymas and architect Mindaugas Zabarauskas created the concept and model of the monument  and prepared the technical project.

 

In December 5, 2008 the Decree of the Government of Lithuania No 1234 came into force and approved the construction of this monument.

 

In July 31 2009 Klaipėda Municipality issued a permission (No 208/59-NS/09) to construct a monument to forgone Lithuanian seafarers and sunken ships.