The Russian Center of Science and Culture in Rome hosted an event in commemoration of writer and diplomat Alexander Griboyedov

An evening dedicated to the poet, playwright and diplomat Alexander Griboyedov was held in the Russian Center of Science and Culture in Rome as part of “Portraits of Russian Artists” literary meetings. On the occasion of the Diplomatic Worker Day, which is marked on February 10 in Russia, there was also a discussion focused on the history of the foreign policy of our country from the times of Ivan the Terrible.

Dmitry Gurin, Advisor, Russian Embassy in Italy, opened the evening and delivered a speech highlighting the stages of development of Russian diplomacy and Alexander Griboyedov’s heroic mission in Persia. He noted that the service to the Fatherland and protection of its interests had always been the professional objective of diplomacy.  

The portrait of Alexander Griboyedov by Ivan Kramskoy was in the spotlight of a speech given by Irina Dvizova, curator of the project. The artist is believed to have created a collective image, which is the most accurate and realistic portrait of the writer. What is more, Irina Dvizova drew attention to Griboyedov as the author of the brilliant play "Woe from Wit" and the creator of the image of Chatsky.

A musical gift for guests at the Russian Center of Science and Culture was prepared by an Italian pianist Gianluigi Daniele. He performed Waltz in E Minor, written by Griboyedov, which is considered to be the first Russian waltz.  

“Alexander Griboyedov (1795 - 1829)” electronic collection is available on the portal of the Presidential Library. It includes electronic copies of books, articles, archival documents and visual materials. There are also texts of literary works, including that of the comedy "Woe from Wit", which made the author a classic writer of Russian literature, literary criticism and biographical materials, images of monuments to Alexander Griboyedov etc.