Памятник обезьянам, Research primate monument at Mount Trapezium in Sukhumi, Georgia
The Primate Monument is a bronze sculpture located at a research institute in Sukhumi and depicts a seated baboon in contemplative pose. The artwork weighs approximately 1.5 tons and displays disease names engraved on the pedestal beneath it.
The sculpture was erected in 1977 to commemorate 50 years of the primate research facility. It suffered bullet damage during the 1992-1993 conflict but remains standing as a testament to that period.
The monument honors the role of primates in medical research, particularly in vaccine development against diseases like polio and yellow fever. The pedestal displays the names of illnesses that were combated through this scientific work.
The sculpture is located on the grounds of an active research institute near Mount Trapezium and is open to visitors. Access is straightforward on foot, though it is wise to check in advance whether the institute grounds are accessible on the day of your visit.
The statue depicts a real hamadryas baboon named Murray who was a respected leader within the institute's primate colony. This baboon was more than just a research subject, becoming a notable figure because of his personality and standing in the group.
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