History of Russia: Monument to Grigory Potemkin opens in Smolensk

A monument to Prince Grigory Alexandrovich Potemkin-Tavricheski – “the son of Smolensk land” was opened on November 3 2011 in Smolensk. Its author - Professor of Smolensk University, member of the Union of Artists of Russia Valery Grashchenkov – has portrayed the outstanding statesman and military man of 18th century in a smart jacket with orders. The bronze figure of Potemkin has been installed on a pedestal from dark grey granite.

The monument’s inauguration ceremony brought together Potemkin’s descendants, the community, academic circles and business community. “Prince was a zealous son of his Fatherland who brought fame to great Russia, - said Deputy Governor of Smolensk Region Olga Okuneva. – His efforts, energy, contribution to the development of the economy of the state, international relations, settlement of Russian lands, development of the north Black Sea Region were recognized by contemporaries, and even those who argued about the fame of Potemkin, called him a great person, who had made Russia famous”.