The Suvorov Monument is a prominent equestrian statue located in the central square of Tiraspol, Moldova. It depicts the 18th-century Russian Generalissimo Alexander Suvorov, who is historically credited with founding the city in 1792 as a fortress to protect the Russian Empire's southwestern borders.
Erected in 1979, the monument serves as a central landmark of the city. The bronze statue captures the general in a dynamic pose, mounted on a horse, and is set upon a high granite pedestal. It remains a focal point for civic ceremonies and is widely recognized as a symbol of Tiraspol's historical origins.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Bronze, Granite
- Civilization
- Soviet
- Accessibility
- Public square, fully accessible
- Date(s)
- 1979
- Condition
- Well-maintained
- Original Function
- Commemorative monument
- Key Figures
- Alexander Suvorov, Vladimir Artamonov, Valentin Koshkin
Founding of Tiraspol
1792Following the Treaty of Jassy, Alexander Suvorov oversaw the construction of the Middle Dniester fortress, which laid the foundation for the modern city of Tiraspol.
Commission and Installation
1979The monument was commissioned by the Soviet authorities to commemorate the 187th anniversary of the city's founding. It was designed by sculptors Vladimir Artamonov and Valentin Koshkin.
Post-Soviet Status
1991-PresentFollowing the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the monument has been preserved as a key historical landmark in Tiraspol, continuing to serve as a site for public gatherings and state commemorations.
Cultural Significance
The monument is central to the identity of Tiraspol, reinforcing the city's historical narrative as a Russian-founded fortress. It acts as a primary reference point for the city's history and is frequently featured on local currency and official state imagery.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
Discussions surrounding the monument often reflect broader regional debates regarding the historical legacy of the Russian Empire and the Soviet era in the context of modern Transnistrian identity.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open to the public at all times. No entry fees or specific dress codes apply.
Best Times to Visit
Daylight hours are recommended for viewing. The square is particularly active during local public holidays and commemorative events.
Photography
No restrictions on personal photography.
Nearby POIs
7 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]Tiraspol: A Historical Guide — Local History Museum of Tiraspol. Tiraspol Publishing (2010)
- [2]The Monuments of the Dniester Region — I. V. Smirnov. Regional Historical Review (2015)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Bronze, Granite
- Civilization
- Soviet
- Accessibility
- Public square, fully accessible