Monument to Maxim Gorky

This sculpture on Tverskaya Zastava Square in Moscow features a bronze figure of a celebrated Russian writer created by sculptors Vera Mukhina and Ivan Shadr. The work sits in an open plaza near major transportation infrastructure, making it easy to spot when navigating the central part of the city.

The sculpture was designed in the 1930s but not installed until 1951 on Tverskaya Zastava Square, reflecting a major shift in Soviet cultural priorities after World War Two. This long gap between conception and placement shows how Soviet public art projects evolved during the 20th century.

The writer honored here was a major voice in Russian literature whose works focused on social issues and the lives of ordinary people. The monument reflects how Soviet society valued literary figures as important public figures.

This monument sits on an open square near Belorussky railway station, making it easy to find and reach by public transport. The plaza provides plenty of space to walk around and view the figure from different angles.

The figure leans forward in a pose that suggests struggling against the wind, a detail that reveals the sculptural techniques popular in Soviet art of that era. This dynamic stance gives the otherwise still monument a sense of forward motion.

Location: Tverskoy District

Inception: 1939

Creator: Vera Mukhina, Ivan Dmitriyevich Shadr

GPS coordinates: 55.77612,37.58385

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:00