Tatishchev Monument

The Tatishchev Monument is a sculpture in Tolyatti, Russia, depicting a horseman on a reared steed mounted on a 14-meter limestone pedestal. The pedestal is shaped like an 18th-century fortress with polygonal defensive towers.

Vasily Tatishchev, a Russian statesman and historian, founded Stavropol in 1737 as a fortress to defend Russian territories against nomadic raids. The original city eventually submerged, but this monument preserves its memory on these riverbanks.

The monument marks the location of the original city that now lies beneath the water, serving as a memory place for the area's founding heritage. Visitors can sense the connection between this spot and the submerged settlement it represents.

The monument stands directly on the Volga riverbank and is easily accessible on foot with clear views from multiple angles. Cherry trees planted around the base create shade and a pleasant setting for viewing.

Moscow sculptor Alexander Rukavishnikov created the bronze figure, which has become a strong symbol of local identity for the city. The fortress-shaped pedestal is an unusual architectural choice that distinguishes it from typical monuments.

Location: Tolyatti

Inception: September 2, 1998

Creator: Alexander Rukavishnikov

Official opening: September 2, 1998

Height: 14 m

Made from material: limestone, bronze

GPS coordinates: 53.47453,49.34838

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:55