Ever wonder about the stories frozen in bronze? Here stands the Avântul Țării Statue. It is more than metal. It embodies a pivotal moment in Romanian history.
The Avântul Țării Statue commemorates the Romanian heroes. These heroes died in the line of duty during the 1913 campaign. Initially, the sculpture depicted Romanian troops crossing the Danube into Bulgaria. Sadly, the Communist regime destroyed the bas-reliefs portraying these scenes. This act erased Becker’s name from the work for a time.
Emil Wilhelm Becker created the Avântul Țării Statue with architect Arghir Culina. It was inaugurated in 1921 on Calea Griviței near military establishments. Later it was moved to its current location in Piața Valter Mărăcineanu. It stands in front of the former Ministry of War near Cișmigiu Garden.
Look closely at the pyramidal pedestal with rounded corners. It is made of concrete armored with Deva travertine. Atop it is a bronze statuary group featuring two allegorical figures. A woman symbolizes the Motherland. She holds a waving flag in her right hand. A Romanian soldier stands ready for attack with his weapon. At the base of the group a bronze eagle spreads its wings. The monument bears the inscription “Avântul Țării” on its facade.
The Avântul Țării Statue once featured six bas-reliefs depicting battle scenes. Unfortunately, communists destroyed them. During a restoration in 2009 the spaces for the bas-reliefs were rebuilt.
The statue of Avântul Țării is 2.70 meters high. The pedestal supporting the statue adds another 4 meters to the monument’s height. The pedestal lists the names of the initiative committee. This committee launched the subscription lists for the monument.
Did you know another Avântul Țării monument existed in Constanța? It was destroyed by Bulgarian occupation troops during World War I.
In 1913, the “Avântul Țării” Medal was established. It was awarded to all military personnel and civilians. They participated in the 1913 campaign.
The Avântul Țării Statue stands as a testament to Romanian courage. It also stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the nation. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and history. The Avântul Țării Statue continues to inspire.