10 der lustigsten Denkmäker in Russland10 Fotos

In recent decades, Russia has seen the emergence of a vast number of original monuments created by both renowned and aspiring sculptors. When traveling through the cities of your country, don’t forget to take a look at them—good mood is guaranteed!

The “Friendship” Syrup Cone Monument. Moscow

This unusual monument can be found on Rustaveli Street, near the “Karat” melted syrup cone factory. It depicts the heroes of the fable “The Raven and the Fox” sitting together on a log, holding a “Friendship” syrup cone in their hands. The syrup cone itself weighs around 250 kilograms and comes in an authentic packaging.

The Chizhik-Pyzhik Monument. Saint PetersburgThis monument marked the beginning of a widespread trend for unusual sculptural compositions. In fact, Chizhik can be considered a pioneer in this movement—it was installed on the Fontanka River in 1994. Naturally, this small bronze bird soon became the subject of various legends. It is believed that if you make a wish and hit Chizhik with a coin, your wish will come true. Moreover, if a newlywed couple ties a rum bottle to Chizik’s beak with a string, their marriage will be happy.

Many monuments in Russia are dedicated to utility services. For example, the “Plumber Stepanych” monument in Omsk: The steel-plated plumber Stepanych, who peeks out from a manhole cover on Lubinsky Prospect, has become a symbol of the city and a favorite among its residents.

Indeed, many people stop to give Stepanych a cigarette. This monument is a copy of one in Bratislava.The Water Supply Monument. MytishchiThis monument consists of three metal rails topped with colorful plumbing fixtures. It was erected to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Mytishchi water supply system. Although locals don’t particularly admire it, calling it various nicknames such as “The Drunken Plumber” or “The Martian Tripod,” it remains a notable landmark of the city.

The Heating Radiator Monument. SamaraThis monument, highly relevant to our climate, was installed in 2005. According to Samara researchers, the radiator design originated in Russia, and this fact was commemorated in this unusual way on the 150th anniversary of its invention. Locals also refer to it as the “Cat Monument.”

There are also monuments in Russia that are instantly understandable to every Russian person. For example, the “Salty Pickle” monument in the city of Lukhovitsy, Moscow Oblast: This popular snack was brought to life in bronze in 2007, on the occasion of the city’s 50th anniversary. Interestingly, Lukhovitsy is the main supplier of cucumbers to the regional markets and shops.

So, why not enjoy some fresh cucumbers while you’re at it—Russians’ love for cucumbers is truly undeniable!

The “ Happiness Monument.” TomskThis deeply philosophical monument provides tourists with a simple answer to the complex question of what happiness really is. According to its creators, happiness lies not in money or fame but in basic human pleasures such as food and warmth—precisely those things that Russians value most!

The “Crocodile Monument.” Izhevsk

A prominent crocodile named Genya, lying leisurely on a city bench in a pose reminiscent of a poet, brings smiles to the faces of passersby and lifts their spirits. This monument was installed in a park opposite School No. 24 in 2005.

There are several theories regarding how Izhevsk came to be associated with crocodiles. One theory suggests that there is documentary evidence indicating that a crocodile escaped from a traveling zoo that was performing in Izhevsk at the beginning of the last century. This crocodile might well be Genya. After the escape, a legend arose stating that crocodiles began appearing in the local rivers. Another theory holds that the gunsmiths of Izhevsk earned the nickname “crocodiles” because of their distinctive festive attire.

There are also amusing monuments in Russia dedicated to beloved and famous people. For example, the monument depicting Eugene Leonov in the role of a professor.This monument was unveiled in 2001 and is located on the Walk of Film Stars in a small park at the intersection of Mosfilmovskaya Street and Piryev Street, opposite the Mosfilm film studio. The beloved character created by Eugene Leonov from the famous movie “The Gentlemen of Success” is depicted here in a very lifelike manner—even the tattoos on his arms can be seen. The scene of his confrontation with the prisoners is vividly reproduced in bronze, giving the impression that Leonov might actually say: “I’ll tear apart your jaws…!”

The “Luzhkov the Yardman” Monument. MoscowThis monument is located in the inner courtyard of the Moscow Museum of Modern Art. It depicts Luzhkov symbolically as a diligent yardman armed with a broom.In his hand, Luzhkov holds a broom that merges into a street lamp. The torn-off heel of his boot and the pile of trash at his feet create a humorous effect. The more you look at this monument, the more diverse your thoughts and associations become. Its creator is the controversial artist Zurab Tsereteli.