Landmark · Garden Ring
Peter The Great Monument
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The Peter the Great Monument is a towering 98-meter statue located at the confluence of the Moskva River and the Vodootvodny Canal, near the Garden Ring in central Moscow. Designed by Georgian sculptor Zurab Tsereteli and unveiled in 1997, it depicts Tsar Peter I standing on a ship's prow, holding a scroll and a golden cross. The monument is one of the tallest statues in Russia and has been a subject of debate due to its size and aesthetic. Visitors can view it from the riverbanks or take a river cruise for a closer look. The surrounding area offers pleasant walking paths and views of the Kremlin and other landmarks. While opinions vary on its artistic merit, the monument is undeniably a striking feature of Moscow's skyline.
Don't miss
- See one of the world's tallest statues of a historical figure
- Photograph the monument from the riverbank or a bridge
- Walk along the nearby Garden Ring for city views
- Take a river cruise to see the monument from the water
- Explore the adjacent park and pedestrian areas
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Peter The Great Monument
You don't need a tour to visit, entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Peter The Great Monument with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inRome: St. Peter’s Basilica, La Pietà, Papal Tombs and Dome4.8★ · 63 travelers1-2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$19 per personSee dates →
Best full dayRome by Golf Cart Private Tour: Beyond the Landmarks5★ · 4,897 travelers2-7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$209 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Saint Peter’s Basilica Tour + Optional Dome & Tombs5★ · 107 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$78 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Getting there
Know before you go
- The monument is best viewed from a distance; you cannot climb it.
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full height of the statue.
- Consider a river cruise for unique perspectives.
- Combine with a visit to nearby attractions like Gorky Park or the Kremlin.
A bit of history
Erected in 1997 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Russian Navy, the monument was designed by Zurab Tsereteli. It was initially controversial due to its cost and design, with some critics calling it an eyesore. Despite this, it has become a recognizable part of Moscow's urban landscape.
Common questions
Is the Peter the Great Monument open to the public?
Yes, it is an outdoor monument accessible 24/7, free of charge.
How tall is the monument?
It stands 98 meters (322 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest statues in Russia.
Why is it controversial?
Many locals dislike its size and design, and it was built at a high cost during economic hardship.
Can I go inside the monument?
No, the monument is not open to the public; it can only be viewed from outside.
What is the best way to see it?
Walk along the riverbank or take a boat tour for the best views.
Is it near other attractions?
Yes, it is close to the Kremlin, Red Square, and Gorky Park.
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