A gift from Moscow. That’s the story of this statue. The Alexander Pushkin Statue stands proudly in Madrid’s Quinta de la Fuente del Berro park. It’s a bronze figure of the great Russian romantic poet. Pushkin is depicted in the fashion of his time. He wears trousers and a long coat. His pose is relaxed. He leans casually on a truncated column.
The statue is more than just a pretty face. It symbolizes a cultural exchange. It was a gift from Moscow to Madrid in 1981. In return Madrid gave Moscow a replica of the Miguel de Cervantes statue. This exchange happened during a period of improved relations between the Soviet Union and Spain.
The sculptor Oleg Komov even visited Madrid for the unveiling. He held an exhibition at Madrid’s City Hall. He admired Velázquez’s art. His style blends abstraction with realism. The inauguration was attended by important figures. Madrid’s mayor Enrique Tierno Galván was there. So was the Soviet ambassador Yuri Dubinin.
The statue’s pedestal is made of granite. A bronze plaque bears the inscription: “To the Great Russian Poet / Alexander Pushkin / 1799-1837”. Another inscription on the statue’s base reads: “From the City of Moscow / To the City of Madrid / January 27, 1981”. The sculptor’s signature O. KOMOBT is also visible.
The statue originally stood at the end of an avenue. It was in front of the eastern facade of the palace. However it was later moved. Today it rests in a greener setting on a small island in the park. The change in location makes the statue even more tranquil. The park’s atmosphere enhances the statue’s peaceful aura. The Alexander Pushkin Statue is a remarkable piece of art. It’s a lasting symbol of friendship between two nations. A tangible representation of cultural exchange. It is a beautiful reminder of artistic talent and international diplomacy.