The installation process required the highest engineering precision, since the weight of the bronze composition was more than 20 tons, and lifting was carried out manually using a complex system of blocks and levers. The rush was due to the desire of Emperor Alexander I to attend the ceremony, which left its mark on the work schedule and required the work of craftsmen around the clock. Despite the haste, the quality of the installation remained impeccable, which is confirmed by the preservation of the monument for more than two centuries.
The first thoughts about creating a monument dedicated to the heroes of the people's militia arose long before 1818, but the real implementation of the idea began only after the end of the Patriotic War of 1812. The initiator was the Free Society of Lovers of Literature, Science and the Arts, which in 1808 announced a competition for the best project, but the active phase of work started only in 1811. Ivan Martos, already known for his works in the genre of monumental sculpture, won the competition by presenting a sketch that ideally reflected the spirit of patriotism and unity of the people.
Funds for construction were collected throughout the Russian Empire, which became a unique precedent in the history of Russian art. Monetary contributions came from nobles, merchants, townspeople and even serfs, which emphasized the nationwide nature of the project. The total amount collected was more than 140 thousand rubles in banknotes, which at that time was a colossal amount, which made it possible to use high-quality bronze and granite.
It is important to note that the choice of location for installation was initially planned in Nizhny Novgorod, where the militia was formed, but Emperor Alexander I personally ordered the installation of the monument in Moscow. This decision was dictated by the symbolic significance of the ancient capital, the liberation of which from the interventionists was glorified Kuzma Minin and Dmitry Pozharsky. The central point of the city was supposed to become an eternal reminder of the feat of our ancestors for future generations.
The technical implementation of the project took several years and included not only artistic casting, but also complex engineering calculations for the stability of the structure. The foundation for the pedestal was laid taking into account heaving soils and the proximity of groundwater, which required the use of pile technologies of that time. Granite plinth, delivered from the Olonets province, was processed by master stonemasons with incredible care in order to withstand the weight of the bronze group.
Transportation details
How the monument was delivered: The monument was cast in the workshop of the Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, after which it was transported to Moscow on a special sleigh along the winter road. The journey took several weeks, and all this time the cargo was accompanied by guards, since the risk of damage was extremely high.
The direct installation of the monument on Red Square became a separate engineering operation that required the involvement of experienced craftsmen and a large number of workers. In February 1818, when the ground was frozen, the erection of the bronze figure on the prepared granite pedestal began. The lifting process involved wooden cranes and gates powered by dozens of men, which was standard practice for monumental works in the early 19th century.
- 🏛️ The weight of the bronze group was more than 20 tons, which required a reinforced foundation.
- ❄️ The work was carried out during the winter period in order to use rolled snow for transporting goods.
- 🔨 The figure was attached to the pedestal using hidden metal pins and lead fill.
The opening of the monument, which took place on February 20, 1818, turned into a grandiose celebration that attracted thousands of Moscow residents. The ceremony was attended by Emperor Alexander I, members of the imperial family, high state dignitaries and many citizens, which emphasized the national importance of the event. A temporary wooden fence was installed around the monument, decorated with flags and garlands, creating a festive atmosphere.
⚠️ Attention: Initially, the monument was not installed in its current location, but in the center of Red Square, right in front of the shopping arcades, where the Mausoleum is now located. This arrangement remained for over 120 years, until 1930.
In the 1930s, during the reconstruction of Red Square and preparations for parades, it was decided to move the monument. The Soviet leadership considered that the monument interfered with traffic and military parades, so it was decided to dismantle it and install it near the walls of the Intercession Cathedral (St. Basil's Cathedral). This operation was successful, and since then the monument has been in its current location, becoming an integral part of the architectural ensemble of the square.
The artistic design of the monument to Minin and Pozharsky is considered the pinnacle of Russian classicism and an example of monumental art. The composition is based on the interaction of two figures: standing Minin, who points to the Kremlin with his right hand, calling for the defense of the homeland, and seated Pozharsky, who holds a sword with his left hand and supports a shield with his right. This pose of the prince symbolizes readiness for battle, but at the moment of rest or injury, which adds drama to the scene.
The pedestal contains high relief images telling about key moments in the history of the militia. On the one hand we see the scene of Minin’s call to the people of Nizhny Novgorod, on the other - the expulsion of the Poles from Kitay-Gorod. These bas-reliefs are made with a high degree of detail and allow you to see the emotions and actions of historical characters. Bronze casting executed with such skill that the texture of the fabrics, the shine of the weapons and the muscles of the figures are conveyed with amazing realism.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Opening date | February 20, 1818 | Old style |
| Height of the monument | 8.9 meters | Along with the pedestal |
| Bronze weight | ~20 tons | Excluding pedestal |
| Author | Ivan Martos | Sculptor, academician |
☑️ Key facts of history
In 2022, an exact copy of the Moscow monument was opened in Nizhny Novgorod, which caused widespread public outcry and discussions about the duplication of historical symbols. This copy was created using modern 3D scanning technology of the original, which made it possible to reproduce all the details as accurately as possible, including traces of time and pathica. The installation of the Nizhny Novgorod version is timed to coincide with the 800th anniversary of the city and emphasizes the role of Nizhny Novgorod as the birthplace of the second militia.
The original in Moscow continues to be a major tourist attraction, attracting millions of visitors every year. Specialists regularly monitor the condition of bronze and granite, cleaning the surface from contamination and, if necessary, carrying out restoration work. Despite the aggressive urban environment and temperature changes, the monument retains its majesty and recognition, serving as a symbol of the unity of the Russian people.
⚠️ Attention: Large groups of tourists often gather around the monument, so when visiting Red Square you should be careful and not block the passages for other visitors.
Main conclusion: The monument to Minin and Pozharsky, erected in 1818, is the first public monument in Russia, created with public money and dedicated not to the tsar, but to folk heroes.
The history of the creation and installation of this masterpiece demonstrates how art can unite people and preserve the memory of the heroic pages of the past. From Martos’s first sketches to modern restoration work, each stage of the monument’s life reflects society’s attitude to its history. Understanding when and how a monument was erected helps to better understand its cultural and historical value.
Helpful tip: The best time to photograph the monument is early in the morning on weekdays, when the flow of tourists is minimal and you can take pictures without other people in the frame.
Why was the monument erected in 1818?
The choice of 1818 was not accidental: it coincided with the sixth anniversary of the victory in the Patriotic War of 1812. It was a time of rising national consciousness, and the opening of the monument was the logical conclusion of the cycle of celebrations of the victory over Napoleon.
What is the monument's pedestal made of?
The pedestal is made of granite mined in the Olonets province (Karelia). This material was chosen for its high strength, frost resistance and ability to withstand atmospheric influences for centuries without significant destruction.
How long did it take to create the monument?
About 10 years passed from the announcement of the competition to the opening, but the active phase of Ivan Martos’ work on the model and casting took about 6 years (from 1811 to 1817).
Who financed the construction?
The project was financed exclusively by voluntary donations from citizens of the Russian Empire. The state treasury did not allocate funds for the creation of the monument itself, although officials took care of the logistics and organization of the ceremony.