Sherlock Holmes und Dr. Watson, Bronze statue at Smolenskaya embankment, Russia
This memorial features life-sized bronze figures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson standing together on a pedestal near the British Embassy. The two characters are positioned along Moscow's Smolenskaya embankment overlooking the Moscow River.
Sculptor Andrei Orlov created this memorial in 2007 as a tribute to the 1979 Soviet television series starring Vasily Livanov as Holmes. That adaptation became deeply beloved across the Soviet Union and remains iconic in Russian popular culture.
The figures represent Russia's deep connection to British detective fiction, shaped by beloved television adaptations that entertained audiences for decades. They stand as a bridge between cultures, celebrating stories that crossed borders and languages.
The memorial is easily accessible by walking from Smolenskaya metro station along the embankment. The location along the river makes it a pleasant part of a longer walk through this area of the city.
This is the only monument to fictional British detective characters in Russia, an unexpected tribute positioned near diplomatic buildings. The sculptures draw admirers who appreciate the connection between Russian audiences and these beloved literary figures.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
