Monument to Printing Pioneer Ivan Fedorov

The Monument to Printing Pioneer Ivan Fedorov stands in Teatralnyy Lane, a short walk from the Bolshoi Theatre and Red Square. The statue depicts Fedorov holding a printed page, commemorating his role in bringing the printing press to the East Slavic world in the 16th century. Visitors can see the detailed bronze figure set on a granite pedestal, surrounded by the bustling streets of Tverskoy District. The monument is a quiet spot for reflection amid the city's energy, and nearby plaques provide context about Fedorov's life and work. It's a meaningful stop for those interested in cultural history, offering a glimpse into Moscow's intellectual heritage. The area is also home to other landmarks, making it easy to combine with a broader walking tour.

Don't miss

• Bronze statue of Ivan Fedorov holding a printed book
• Granite pedestal with commemorative inscriptions
• Proximity to the Bolshoi Theatre and Red Square
• Informative plaques detailing Fedorov's contributions
• Peaceful setting in a historic lane

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Know before you go

• The monument is outdoors and always accessible. No tickets needed.
• Photography is allowed and encouraged. The statue is best captured from the front with the lane's architecture in the background.
• Combine with a visit to nearby Kitay-gorod or the Bolshoi Theatre for a fuller experience.
• Read about Ivan Fedorov beforehand to appreciate his historical significance.

A bit of history

Ivan Fedorov (c. 1525–1583) is credited with publishing the first printed book in Russia, the 'Apostol' (Acts and Epistles), in 1564. The monument was erected in 1909 to mark the 350th anniversary of his printing press, funded by public subscription. It was designed by sculptor Sergei Volnukhin and architect Ivan Mashkov.