“Why was a bust moved?” you might wonder. Today we are standing before the N. A. Nekrasov Bust in Saint Petersburg. This monument honors the renowned Russian poet Nikolai Alekseevich Nekrasov. It stands in the garden “Prudki”. The garden is at the intersection of Nekrasov and Hellenic Avenue.
The decision to erect a monument to Nekrasov was made in 1946. This commemorated the 125th anniversary of his birth. However, it took ten years to approve the location. The N. A. Nekrasov Bust was finally unveiled fifteen years later. This coincided with the 150th anniversary of the poet’s birth.
Interestingly, a bust of N. A. Nekrasov by sculptor V. V. Lishev was previously placed here in 1922. However, by 1946 it was deemed not grand enough. This earlier bust was moved to Liteiny Avenue, 37. It now resides in the square opposite House 36. Nekrasov lived in that building from 1855 to 1877. His apartment museum is located there.
Nekrasov was a significant figure in Russian literature. Besides being a poet, he edited “The Physiology of Saint Petersburg”. This was a collection of works by Russian writers. It offered insights into the life and morals of 19th-century St. Petersburg.
His writings captured the essence of St. Petersburg. Nekrasov penned “Petersburg Corners”. It offered a glimpse into the city’s hidden aspects. His contributions provide invaluable insights into the social fabric of the era.
The N. A. Nekrasov Bust serves as a lasting tribute to a poet. He captured the spirit of St. Petersburg in his verses. Take a moment to reflect on Nekrasov’s legacy. Remember how his words continue to resonate. They echo through the streets of this magnificent city.