In Minsk, a unique equestrian monument to Saint Prince Alexander Nevsky has been installed, standing 11 meters tall and weighing about 4 tons. The monument is located at the intersection of Novovilenskaya Street and Starovilensky Trakt, near the Embassy of the Russian Federation. Alexander Nevsky is depicted riding a horse, holding a banner in his right hand.
The pedestal is adorned with three bas-reliefs that depict key moments from the prince’s life. The first bas-relief is dedicated to his blessing for marriage to Princess Alexandra of Polotsk in Vitebsk in 1239. The second illustrates a scene from the Battle of the Neva in 1240, with his loyal companion Yakov Polochanin standing by his side. The third bas-relief depicts a meeting with papal legates, who unsuccessfully tried to persuade the prince to convert to Catholicism.
The idea for the monument came from the Belarusian Orthodox Church and was supported by President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko. According to Artem Tsuran, Deputy Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee, the monument symbolizes respect for the historical ties between Belarus and Russia, reminding us of how these nations jointly defended their lands and built their statehood.
The project began in 2022 and was the result of close cooperation between the Belarusian Orthodox Church, the Minsk City Executive Committee, and the Embassy of the Russian Federation. At the opening ceremony, Russian Ambassador to Belarus Boris Gryzlov noted that this monument is a symbol of centuries-old friendship and brotherhood between the two nations.
Alexander Nevsky, canonized in the 16th century, was not only a great military leader and statesman but also a deeply devout man who dedicated his life to serving the people and defending their interests. His close connection with Polotsk, his victory at the Battle of the Neva, and his marriage to Alexandra of Polotsk make him an important figure in the history of Belarus and Russia.
Today, the monument to Alexander Nevsky in Minsk has become an important cultural and spiritual symbol, highlighting the shared historical roots, traditions, and values that unite the two nations.