Millennium of Russia

Welcome to the heart of the Novgorod Kremlin, standing before one of the most remarkable bronze monuments in the world: the Millennium of Russia. Unveiled in 1862, this monument was commissioned by Tsar Alexander II to…

Look up at the very top of the monument, where a massive orb, or 'monomakh cap,' sits. This orb is decorated with a cross and represents the world under God's guidance. …

As we move down to the lower circular frieze, we encounter the 'Enlighteners' and 'Saints.' This section of the monument is a crowded, vibrant parade of the minds that shaped Russian culture. Here you will find figures like Cyril…

Continuing around the base, we come to the section dedicated to 'State People' and 'Military Men.' This is where the political and martial history of Russia comes to life. You will see figures like Yaroslav the Wise, the great…

The final section of the lower frieze is dedicated to 'Artists and Scientists.' This was a groundbreaking addition for a national monument in the nineteenth century. It includes giants of literature like Alexander Pushkin,…

As we conclude our walk around the monument, we must reflect on its second life. In January 1944, as Soviet troops liberated Novgorod from the Nazi occupation, they found the Kremlin in ruins. …

As we step away from the Millennium of Russia, let us take a final look at its bell-like shape. We have journeyed from the legendary Rurik to the great poets of the nineteenth century, and from the depths of World War II…