Fountain "Wreath" in Minsk, located in Yanka Kupala Park, is one of the iconic places in the Belarusian capital. Its recognizable sculptural composition harmoniously blends into the cultural landscape of the city, serving as a symbol of Minsk and a popular place to visit. Residents and guests of the city often come here for walks and photos, and images of the fountain can be seen on postcards, stamps, and in various publications.
The "Wreath" fountain has a long history. As early as the 1950s, a fountain was installed here, but it was simple and lacked artistic value. In 1972, to mark the 90th anniversary of the great Belarusian poet Yanka Kupala, a new composition created by sculptors Anatoly Anikeychik, Leonid Gumilevsky, and A. Zaspitsky was introduced. It represents an allegory of Kupala Night and is associated with one of the central rituals of the ancient folk holiday Ivan Kupala, when girls would float wreaths on the water to divine their fate.
Yanka Kupala, after whom the park is named, chose a pseudonym referring to this holiday, emphasizing his roots and closeness to the people. According to legends, the night of Ivan Kupala is full of magic, and it is during this time that the mythical fern blooms, which only a fortunate person can find to gain luck and prosperity. The main ritual of the holiday — wreath divination — is reflected in the sculptural group of the "Wreath" fountain. Here, two girls lean over the water to let their wreaths flow with the current. If the wreath drifted far, the girl would have to wait, but if it washed ashore, it was considered a sign of an impending wedding. This scene conveys hope, youth, and beauty, with each detail of the composition referring to the ancient traditions and symbolism of the holiday.
The team of authors who created the fountain and the Yanka Kupala monument was awarded the State Prize of the BSSR. Notably, the initial design sparked controversy, as the original figures of the girls were created with lush forms, but they were later revised, and the final sculpture featured more delicate and elegant figures.
The "Wreath" fountain in Yanka Kupala Park has become an integral part of Minsk’s cultural traditions. The launch of the fountain in spring is accompanied by folk festivities and costume parades, adding a festive touch to the daily life of Minsk residents and tourists. In 2014, the fountain was restored, with improved technical features and a revised water flow pattern that now alternates between different types of water displays, such as geyser and dome, giving the fountain an even more impressive appearance.
The renovated fountain continues to delight all visitors, remaining a popular spot for meetings and strolls. This architectural work, symbolizing folk traditions and ancient rites, not only decorates the park but also carries deep meaning, preserving the memory of Belarusian culture and national identity.
Fountain "Wreath" is not only a work of art but also a symbol of folk creativity, attracting visitors with its beauty and mystery. Every detail of this sculptural composition contributes to the atmospheric and harmonious setting of the park, making it a favorite resting place for both locals and tourists.
