Since the XIX century Volgograd Railway Station has been one of the most recognizable and time-honored city symbols. During the Great Patriotic War the station was completely destroyed. It repeatedly passed from hand to hand, and only the foundation walls and debris remained from it after the Russians’ victory in the Battle of Stalingrad. The funny monument-fountain Barmaley on Station Square was also destroyed at that time. Before the war it was sometimes also called “Children” or “Crocodile”.
In 1943 it was decided to restore Volgograd Railway Station, which was quickly rebuilt on the old foundation. The railway station in the Stalinist empire style became fully operational in the early 50-ies of the XX century. The sculptural composition dedicated to the Victory and the soldiers-defenders of Stalingrad appeared before the main entrance. Barmaley fountain was restored in 2013.