“Rumyantsev’s victories” proclaims the inscription. This Rumyantsev Obelisk stands as a testament to military glory.
Let’s delve into the story of this impressive monument. It graces Rumyantsev Square on Vasilyevsky Island. The obelisk commemorates Count Pyotr Rumyantsev’s triumphs. He excelled during the Russo-Turkish Wars of 1768-1774 and 1787-1792.
Empress Catherine the Great conceived the idea for this monument in 1795. Sadly, both she and Rumyantsev passed away in 1796. Emperor Paul I, Catherine’s son, carried out the project in 1799. He first tried to offer Rumyantsev’s heirs a palace instead. They declined so he honored the request for a monument.
Vincenzo Brenna designed the Rumyantsev Obelisk. Initially, it stood on the Tsaritsyn Meadow now the Field of Mars. After the Suvorov Monument’s unveiling, it was relocated. Finally in 1818 the obelisk found its permanent home on Vasilyevsky Island.
Standing tall at 21.3 meters the Rumyantsev Obelisk is a sight to behold. Serdobolsky granite forms the obelisk and its base. Pink Tivdia and gray Raskolsky marble constitute the pedestal. White Italian marble adorns the bas-reliefs showcasing military trophies. A gilded ball topped by an eagle crowns the obelisk.
The front of the pedestal features a black marble plaque. The inscription “Rumyantsev’s victories” is written in gilt letters.
Carlo Rossi’s redevelopment of the Field of Mars prompted the move to Vasilyevsky Island. Rossi placed the Rumyantsev Obelisk on a granite stepped stylobate. The monument suffered damage and theft early on. Andrey Voronikhin restored it in 1809. Vasily Ekimov re-cast the missing bronze parts.
Gardens were laid out on the square between 1866 and 1867. City merchant S. F. Solovyov financed the gardens. Nikolai Kovrigin designed them. In 1927 Rudolf Katzer redeveloped the square. It was renamed Shevchenko Square in 1939. This honored poet Taras Shevchenko. In 2001 its original name Rumyantsev Square was restored.
The Rumyantsev Obelisk has witnessed many changes. It has stood as a symbol of military achievement. Its presence enriches the historical tapestry of St. Petersburg. Take a moment to appreciate the Rumyantsev Obelisk. Consider the legacy of Count Pyotr Rumyantsev and the vision of those who created this lasting monument.