The memorial was planned and built in the Soviet era and dedicated to the Soviet soldiers that died during the first and second world war. Today, some local authorities say in a more general way that the monument commemorates those who have lost their lives during the war. The main elements are a 35 meter high obelisk, two ceremonial axes and a broad plaza with concrete tribunes. The plaza offers an impressive view over the Baltic sea and the skyline of Tallinn. (Written by Oliver Burgard)

After Estonia regained independence in 1991, the Soviet monument was no longer maintained and was increasingly marked by decay, graffiti and crumbling concrete. Therefore, the plaza and the tribunes were temporarily blocked for visitors because of the risk of collapsing material, but the tribunes remained a popular hangout for young people. There also have been plans for a sports stadium on the site. 
In 2022, however, it was reported that the city of Tallinn wanted to take over and repair the dilapidated Maarjamäe Memorial. There was talk of installing a rainwater system and a sophisticated lighting system, as well as installing plaques explaining the history of the site. Consideration should also be given to whether the memorial should be given a new lease of life. Reports from 2024 suggest that this is now to be implemented: This is when plans by the city became public that it is preparing for the preliminary work to construct a new memorial for the site for the victims and participants of the 1944 Great Flight. The complex no longer appears to be under threat. However, we have not found any information on the extent to which the entire complex has already been renovated (last updated on February 15, 2025).