Fountain of Friendship of Peoples

Fountain of Friendship of Peoples in Moscow Rusya It is one of the main symbols of the Expo Center. It was built in 1954 by Konstantin Topuridze and Grigory Konstantinovsky. The fountain is located in the center of the Russian Expo Center, on the People's Friendship Square. With its unique design and symbolic sculptures, it symbolizes the brotherhood of the Soviet peoples. Closed for restoration in 2018, the fountain was reopened in 2019.

History: From the Old Agricultural Fair to the Unity Monument

The Russian Exhibition Center (formerly the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition) in Moscow, where the Friendship of Peoples Fountain is located, was established in 1939 to showcase the agricultural achievements of the Soviet Union. The exposition featured pavilions promoting the agricultural and industrial achievements and cultural riches of each republic. In the early years of the exposition, the current location of the fountain housed a children's cafe and several smaller pavilions. Over time, the exposition area developed into a larger project to symbolize the multinational nature of the Soviet Union.

In the early 1950s, Soviet authorities decided to build a monument of friendship and unity on this site in the center of Moscow. At that time, the Soviet Union emphasized that different cultures around the world could coexist and successfully represent a multinational society. Therefore, the Russian Exhibition Center in Moscow began to be redesigned as a center that emphasized the multinational Soviet structure and the message of unity.

By 1954, plans for the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples were complete. The design was to feature 16 female figures representing the 16 republics that made up the Soviet Union. The fountain was planned not only as an artistic work, but also as a monument to the cultural diversity, brotherhood, and solidarity of the Soviet Union. Pavilions representing each republic were built around the fountain, allowing each culture to reflect its unique characteristics.

Many important artists and engineers took part in the design process. Leading artists Zinaida Bazhenova and her team worked on the project management of the fountain and the creation of the sculptures. The hydraulic part of the fountain was designed by engineer BB Klyavin and the water systems were developed to suit this unique structure. At the same time, the fountain's gold-plated sculptures and surrounding details were carefully crafted to emphasize the rich heritage of Soviet art and the artistic power of the Soviet Union.

Initially called the “Golden Spike Fountain”, this monument was renamed the “Peoples’ Friendship Fountain” before its opening. This name was chosen because it better reflected the Soviet Union’s ideal of “brotherhood of peoples”. The common values, cultures and bonds of friendship of the different peoples of the Soviet Union were symbolized in this fountain. The statues are adorned with details that embody the culture, traditional costumes and symbolic elements of each republic. Each is considered an important work of art that symbolizes respect for the multi-national nature of the Soviet Union.

Since its opening, the fountain has become one of the symbols of the Russian Exhibition Centre and is considered one of the most important cultural heritage of the Soviet Union. This monument has become one of the most important stops for visitors to Moscow, symbolizing Soviet multinationality and cultural diversity.

Symbolic Design and Sculptures

The symbolic design of the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples best reflects the multinational nature of the Soviet Union and the ideal of friendship between peoples. The fountain is surrounded by 16 statues, each gold-plated, placed around a large octagonal pool. These statues symbolize the 16 republics that make up the Soviet Union, and each is designed as a female figure that embodies the culture, traditional dress and symbolic attributes of that republic. Each of the statues presents unique elements of their own culture, while at the same time standing proudly as a strong representative of the Soviet Union.

The national costumes of the statues reflect the unique cultural motifs and traditions of each republic. For example, the female figure representing Russia wears a braided crown and holds ears of wheat in her hands, symbolizing Russia's agricultural wealth and fertility. The Ukrainian figure carries a wreath of flowers, while the Belarusian statue holds an apple. Each figure is depicted with a fruit, plant, or symbolic object symbolizing the rich agricultural heritage and cultural diversity of the Soviet Union.

In addition to the statues, the large wheat sheaf located in the center of the fountain is also an important symbol. This 7,4-meter-high gold-plated wheat sheaf symbolizes the fertility and abundance ideal of the Soviet Union. The wheat sheaf is designed in harmony with the surrounding statues and symbolizes diversity within unity. The use of agricultural symbols also reflects the Soviet Union's economic philosophy focused on agriculture and labor. In addition to wheat, hemp and sunflower motifs are also located in different parts of the fountain to symbolize diversity and the fertility of nature.

Details and Aesthetics in Design

The materials used in the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples were chosen in accordance with the magnificence and permanence of Soviet artistic understanding. The statues were made of bronze and then gold-plated; this ensures the fountain’s durability that will defy time. Soviet artists and engineers prioritized not only the visual beauty of the fountain but also its durability. The detailed and meticulous workmanship of the statues shows that Soviet sculpture art developed in accordance with the aesthetic and artistic ideals of the period. The gold-plating of the statues gives the fountain both magnificence and katar It also symbolizes the importance the Soviets attach to art.

The movement of water in the design also provides a visual feast. The fountain's advanced hydraulic system simultaneously operates 800 water jets, spraying water rhythmically and impressively. These water jets are an example of advanced technology and creativity of Soviet engineering. The water moves around the statues as if dancing, offering visitors a fascinating viewing experience. When the sparkle of the water jets is combined with the gold-plated statues, both artistic harmony is achieved and an atmosphere that reveals the grandeur of the Soviets is created.

Order and Meaning of Statues

The arrangement of the statues was also carefully considered according to the social and political structure of the Soviet Union. The statues were ranked according to the population size of the republics in the USSR Constitution. This order is a detail that emphasizes the importance of each republic within the Soviet Union. For example, the statues of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus in the center represent the republics with the largest populations and the foundation of the Soviet Union. The other statues were also placed according to a special order in which the republics were positioned in order. This order symbolizes the equality of the Soviet peoples and the unity required by the Soviet Constitution.

The order of the statues is not in alphabetical order or in the location of the pavilions, but in the order of the national anthem and coat of arms of the USSR. This symbolic arrangement emphasizes the Soviet ideal of equality of peoples and carries a symbolic meaning that emphasizes the multinational nature of the Soviet Union. Thanks to this, each statue stands not only as a cultural symbol, but also as a representative of Soviet unity.

With its artistic and symbolic value, the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples magnificently reflects the cultural diversity of the Soviet Union, its agricultural heritage and the idea of ​​brotherhood of peoples. For visitors to Moscow, the fountain is a fascinating work of art, reflecting the ideal of Soviet art and cultural unity.

The Challenging Restoration Process

The Friendship of Peoples Fountain, one of the most magnificent structures in Moscow, has suffered from serious structural problems over time. Opened in 1954, the fountain has been exposed to various weather conditions and wear and tear over the years. By the early 2000s, the fountain was in dire need of restoration due to water leaks, electrical problems and structural wear. The fountain was in a dangerous state due to the physical wear and tear that had accumulated over the years, and experts reported that the structure was unsafe for further use.

In the 2000s, the pump systems that fed the fountain’s main water jets had become old and had begun to fail frequently. The fountain was leaking about 150 cubic meters of water per day, a serious problem that could damage the foundations of neighboring buildings. The fountain’s electric lighting system had also failed. The original incandescent lamps had to be replaced with economical and safe LED lighting systems. Water leaks, corrosion in the substructure, and worn-out pipes were among the fountain’s most urgent repair needs. Around the fountain and in the machine room, fountain workers worked every year to repair rotten pipes and replace worn-out parts with temporary solutions.

By 2004, the fountain’s condition had deteriorated further, with experts warning that it could no longer be operated safely. A major restoration effort was needed to preserve this cultural heritage from the Soviet era. In 2006, Moskova With the initiative of the Municipality, the first major repair works were started at the fountain. During this process, the fountain's critical water pipes, pumps and infrastructure systems were temporarily repaired, but these operations were not within the scope of ensuring the fountain's longer-term protection.

A more comprehensive restoration of the fountain was decided in 2017. The Moscow administration launched a major restoration project to restore the fountain to its original splendor. The restoration work was the most detailed and large-scale renovation process in the fountain’s 65-year history. The restoration, which began in October 2018, aimed to restore the historic structure to its former glory while preserving its authenticity. During this process, the fountain’s sculptures, water systems and granite structures were handled with great care. The gold plating on each sculpture was renewed, the details of the figures were meticulously repaired by hand, and the fountain’s water jets were redesigned to match their original Soviet-era pumps.

The pump systems under the fountain were also completely overhauled. During the restoration, the durability of both the water jets and the infrastructure was increased. The pump systems that regulate water circulation were renewed and the electrical infrastructure was strengthened with modern LED lighting systems. In addition, every part of the fountain was restored to its original historical structure and renovated using original materials.

The extensive restoration work was completed on April 30, 2019, and the fountain was reopened to the public with a grand ceremony held by Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin. After the restoration, the fountain was reborn with gold-plated statues, renewed water jets and LED lighting systems. The Friendship of Peoples Fountain, one of the symbols of Moscow, continued to offer visitors a magnificent atmosphere in its renewed form.

The 2019 reopening ceremony was timed to coincide with the arrival of spring in Moscow, and the fountain’s opening marked the beginning of what is known as the “season opening” of water fountains in Moscow. This restoration not only restored the fountain’s physical structure, but also reaffirmed its artistic value and historical significance as a monument symbolizing the multinational nature and cultural heritage of the Soviet Union.

Today, the Friendship of Peoples Fountain once again offers a spectacular experience for visitors to Moscow. The water shows, lighting and renewed gold-plated statues around the fountain reflect the attention paid to Russia’s cultural heritage. This historic monument continues to shine as a symbol of Moscow, much admired by both the Russian people and international visitors.

Artistic Details and Water Shows

The Fountain of Friendship of Peoples offers its visitors a unique visual feast with its artistic details and magnificent water shows. Every detail used in the design of the fountain bears the finest examples of Soviet art, and this aesthetic heritage carries the artistic value of the fountain to the present day. The 16 gold-plated statues located in the center of the fountain, each symbolize a different republic of the Soviet Union. These statues express the ideal of friendship of peoples in an artistic language, while also symbolizing the cultural and traditional values ​​of each republic. The details on the statues reflect the elegance and fine workmanship of Soviet sculpture.

The bronze construction of the fountain statues ensures durability, while the gold coating on them adds a dazzling magnificence to the fountain. Covering the statues with gold leaf is not only an aesthetic choice, but also a symbol of the importance the Soviets gave to their cultural heritage. This gold coating increases the visual appeal of the fountain, while also reflecting the ideals of wealth and prosperity of the Soviet Union. The golden glow of the statues glistens in daylight, and when night falls, they combine with LED lighting to create a fairy-tale world.

Surrounding the statues is an elaborate composition decorated with motifs such as wheat, sunflower and hemp, which are symbols of agriculture. These plant ornaments are symbolic elements that symbolize the agricultural success of the Soviet Union, the labor of the people and its natural resources. The large wheat sheaf in the center has the same symbolic meaning; wheat represents the ideals of abundance and prosperity of the Soviet Union. The composition of the statues and these symbolic elements reflects the multinational structure of the Soviets and the common labor of the peoples, giving a message of unity and solidarity.

The Rhythm and Sparkle of Water Shows

In the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples, water is not just a static element, but a dynamic and constantly moving showpiece. The fountain’s advanced hydraulic system simultaneously operates 800 water jets, spraying water in a certain rhythm. These water jets reflect the technical achievements and innovative approach of Soviet engineering. As the water moves around the statues, it demonstrates the mastery of Soviet art in combining engineering and aesthetics. The synchronized movement of the water jets performs a graceful dance reminiscent of a ballet, and this rhythmic water show fascinates visitors.

The heights of the water jets used in the fountain are set at different levels, creating a layer of visual depth. The central water jet is sprayed from a height higher than the others, drawing attention and introducing a hierarchical order to the entire composition. The jets, when sprayed in different directions and angles, create a curtain of water around the statues. The arrangement of the water jets symbolizes the harmonious coming together of the statues representing each republic of the Soviet Union and forming a whole. This arrangement is a powerful symbol of the interconnectedness and harmony of the Soviet peoples.

Fascinating Atmosphere at Night with LED Lighting

The fountain, especially at night, turns into an impressive visual feast with its unique LED lighting system. During the restoration process, a modern LED lighting system was added, allowing the fountain to take on an even more enchanting atmosphere at night. The LED lighting added to the water jets adds a dramatic atmosphere to the fountain, while also emphasizing the golden glow of the sculptures. This lighting makes the fountain's sculptures and water shows even more impressive, opening the doors of a fairy-tale world to visitors.

The lighting is designed to create colors that change synchronously with the movement of the water, placed on different layers of the fountain. This offers a different perspective every time you look at the fountain and increases the visual richness. When the LED lights are combined with the water jet, it creates an effect as if the water itself is shining. The lights, especially in blue, green and white tones, create a rainbow effect on the water, giving the fountain a magical appearance.

The nightly water and light shows have become one of Moscow’s most popular attractions. Visitors can experience the unique dance of water and the magnificence of sculptures as they walk around the illuminated fountain. These shows make the fountain an indispensable symbol of Moscow’s cultural heritage, while also powerfully reviving the message of friendship and unity between peoples.

The Harmonious Dance of Water and Light

In the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples, water and light come together and dance in harmony. The lights, synchronized with the movement of the water, give the fountain a dynamism that changes every second. The rhythmic gush of the water jets and the lights' adaptation to this rhythm create the impression of a living work of art. Water and light form a circle of energy around the sculptures, which strongly conveys the unity and solidarity principle of Soviet ideology through art.

With its water shows and LED lighting, the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples offers an unforgettable experience for visitors to Moscow. Each drop of water gushes out of the fountain as a powerful symbol of Soviet multinationality, while the sparkling reflections of the lights on the water visually support this message of unity and friendship. The enchanting atmosphere that the fountain exhibits day and night continues to shine as a unique work of art, history and engineering, bringing Moscow’s cultural heritage to life.

Order and Meaning of Statues

The arrangement of the statues in the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples follows a carefully thought-out order that reflects the multi-national structure of the Soviet Union and the equality of peoples. The 16 statues around the fountain symbolize the 16 republics that make up the Soviet Union. Each statue is meticulously detailed with traditional costumes, agricultural products and unique cultural symbols of the republic it represents. The arrangement of these statues is made according to the population sizes of the republics included in the constitution of the Soviet Union, thus emphasizing the importance of each part of this multi-national structure.

The order in which the statues are placed is based on the order of the republics that formed the Soviet Union. Russia, the most populous republic, is in the center, followed by the largest republics in terms of population, Ukraine and Belarus. This order is reflected in the other statues, creating an order that encompasses every nation of the Soviet Union. The order of the statues is a powerful symbol that visually represents the social structure of the Soviet Union and the ideal of national equality. This order, based on the social hierarchy of the Soviet Union, glorifies the coexistence of Soviet peoples and embodies the Soviet ideology of brotherhood of peoples through art.

Cultural Identities of Republics in Statues

Each statue is decorated with details that reflect the culture, values, and symbols of the republic it represents. For example, the female figure representing Russia wears a traditional knitted crown and holds ears of wheat in her hands, symbolizing Russia’s rich agricultural heritage and the Soviet Union’s ideal of abundance. The Ukrainian figure is adorned with a wreath of flowers, reflecting the country’s connection to nature and agricultural productivity. The Belarusian statue holds an apple, symbolizing the country’s close relationship with agriculture and nature.

Other republics are also represented with their own cultural symbols. For example, the Kazakhstani figure holds grass in his hands, symbolizing the steppe culture, while the Armenian figure holds grapes, symbolizing the country's rich vineyards and wine culture. The Estonian statue holds a fish, representing the republic's maritime tradition. Each statue is decorated with details that express the unique identity of each people within the Soviet Union. These details reflect the Soviet artists' respect for the unique cultural values ​​of each republic and are brought together as a symbol of diversity within unity.

Non-Alphabetical Order of Statues and Historical Connections

In the arrangement of the statues, instead of alphabetical order, an order was chosen that took into account the social structure of the Soviet Union. This order symbolizes the multi-national structure of the Soviet Union and the interdependence of the peoples of the country. The order of the statues was faithful to the order of the official symbols of the Soviet Union, which reveals an aspect of the monument that represents a political order. This order visualizes the ideal of bringing together all the peoples of the Soviets in an equal and integrated structure.

This strategy followed in the arrangement of the statues shows that the Soviet ideology was based on the principle of equality of peoples. This arrangement, which was a structure that united different ethnic and cultural identities in the Soviet Union, became a concrete symbol with the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples located in the center of Moscow. The fact that the statues of each republic stand out with their unique features reflects the Soviet aim of preserving and glorifying cultural diversity and multinationality.

The Order of the Statues and Their Meaning

The order of the statues is based on the list of republics in the USSR Constitution, which was ranked according to their population. The republics closest to the center, such as Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, represent the peoples that formed the foundation of the Soviet Union. There are only a few exceptions to this order; the statues of Moldova and Kyrgyzstan have been changed for reasons that are still unknown. This order symbolizes the strong unity of the Soviet peoples, while also emphasizing cultural and social solidarity.

Collective Artistic Value of Sculptures

Each statue in the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples was meticulously designed by Soviet artists and was considered an original work of art. The artistic details of the statues visually express the ideology of the Soviet Union and the ideal of brotherhood of peoples. The artistic details of each statue display the fine workmanship and elegance of Soviet sculpture. The gold plating of the statues gives the fountain a visual grandeur and shows the value the Soviet Union attaches to art and cultural heritage.

Each of these statues stands in the center of Moscow as a symbol that glorifies the multi-ethnic nature of Soviet society. The order and arrangement of the statues immortalizes the values ​​of the brotherhood of peoples and social equality of the Soviet ideology in a monumental structure. The representation of the representatives of each republic with symbols reflecting their cultural identity shows that this multi-ethnic structure forms a common unity while preserving its individual differences.

A Special Message to Visitors Coming to Moscow

The statues at the Friendship of Peoples Fountain remind visitors of the multi-ethnic nature and cultural richness of the Soviet Union. Each statue artistically expresses the ideals of brotherhood and unity of the Soviet Union, while honoring the unique identity of each republic. This arrangement conveys the Soviet message of unity and solidarity to visitors to Moscow through artistic language. The arrangement of the statues and their artistic details remain a powerful symbol that reflects both Soviet history and the cultural richness of the multi-ethnic society.

The Fountain of Friendship of Peoples in the centre of Moscow combines the cultural diversity of peoples, social equality and the ideal of unity in one artistic structure. Each sculpture vividly illustrates the Soviet idea of ​​brotherhood between peoples, and this monument in Moscow remains a powerful symbol of the Soviet legacy.

Special Notes to Visitors

The Friendship of Peoples Fountain is located in the heart of Moscow, at the Russian Exhibition Center (VDNH) and showcases the multinational character, artistic grandeur and cultural heritage of the Soviet Union. For visitors to Moscow, this monument offers a unique opportunity to experience the Soviet past and cultural richness up close. The fountain is one of those rare works of art, history and engineering that harmoniously combine. Thousands of visitors flock here every year to explore the monument, mesmerized by the fountain’s water jets and gold-plated statues.

• Discover the Historical and Cultural Value of the Fountain: As you walk around the fountain, you will notice that each statue has a deep meaning behind it, symbolizing the cultural diversity of the Soviet Union and the ideal of brotherhood between peoples. Each of the statues honors the cultural heritage and traditions of the 16 republics that formed the Soviet Union. By looking at the fine details in the statues, visitors can see how these figures, representing the different peoples of the Soviet Union, reflect their own cultural motifs. From a historical perspective, these statues visually express the Soviet ideals of friendship and equality between peoples and provide visitors with clues to understanding the social structure of the Soviet period.
• Don't Miss the Fascinating Light and Water Shows at Night: The real magic of the Friendship of Peoples Fountain begins especially in the evening hours when the LED lighting is activated. When the fountain's water jets are illuminated with LED lights, the gold coating of the statues shines with the reflection of the water and the fountain takes on a magical atmosphere. These shows held at night are considered one of the most popular events in Moscow. The color change of the lights turns into a synchronized dance with the movement of the water, making visitors feel like they are watching a ballet show. The fountain's magnificence reaches its peak during the illuminated water show and offers visitors an unforgettable visual feast. We recommend that visitors visit the fountain at night and experience this magnificent atmosphere firsthand. This enchanting view created by the dance of lights and water is an artistic performance that brings Moscow's cultural heritage to life and remains an unforgettable memory throughout the trip.
• Witness Cultural and Artistic Values ​​Up Close: Examining the fountain’s detailed sculptures is of great importance in understanding the aesthetic and artistic understanding of Soviet art at the time. Each of the sculptures in the fountain was created with the artists’ meticulous workmanship and reflects the Soviet artists’ respect for cultural diversity. These details express the Soviet ideal of brotherhood among nations in an artistic language. The symbols and national costumes on the sculptures honor the rich cultures of the peoples who formed the Soviet Union, transforming the visit from a merely visual experience to a journey of cultural discovery.
• Be a Part of a Historical Heritage: The Fountain of Friendship of Peoples is a living symbol of the cultural heritage of the Soviet Union. Visiting the fountain means witnessing this period of history and seeing the reflection of Soviet ideology in art. The Russian Exhibition Center, where the fountain is located, is considered one of the most striking examples of Soviet architecture and engineering. Here you can observe the artistic and engineering marvels of the Soviet period and discover something about history at every step. For travelers interested in history and art, the Fountain of Friendship of Peoples offers a wealth of information about Soviet culture and its multi-ethnic structure.
• Join Events Held in Spring and Summer: The Friendship of Peoples Fountain welcomes visitors with various events organized at the Russian Exhibition Center, especially in the spring and summer months. The fountain season, which opens with the arrival of spring, is seen as a traditional celebration in Moscow and an enthusiastic opening ceremony is held every year. During this season opening, the fountain offers visitors a magnificent visual experience with water shows and music. Various festivals, cultural events and open-air shows are organized at the center throughout the summer. Visitors can spend a pleasant day in the area where the fountain is located, accompanied by Soviet-era architecture and art. Especially on weekends and special days, the crowds gathered around the fountain create an atmosphere that makes one feel that Soviet culture is still alive today.
• A Paradise for Photographers : The Friendship of Peoples Fountain offers a unique opportunity for visitors who love taking photos in Moscow. The enchanting view created by the combination of gold-plated statues, the movement of the water and LED lighting makes the fountain a paradise for photographers. Especially in the evening hours, the fountain, which shines with the lighting, offers impressive images from every angle. Photographers can capture unforgettable frames by capturing the details of the statues, the rhythmic movement of the water and the water droplets dancing with the lights. The fountain offers a different beauty in every season; in winter, it gains a different magnificence when covered with snow, while in summer, it offers a completely different atmosphere around the pool surrounded by flowers.
• Discover the Artistic Meaning of the Fountain in Depth:The Fountain of Friendship of Peoples has great meaning not only as a work of art but also as a symbol of Soviet ideology. Visitors sense that behind each sculpture lies a powerful message reflecting the values ​​of brotherhood, cultural diversity and social solidarity of the Soviet people. Every detail of the fountain is a product of Soviet art and engineering. Visitors to the fountain experience the fusion of art, history and culture, discovering the subtleties of Soviet aesthetics and the profound symbols of this monument.

The Friendship of Peoples Fountain continues to shine as a symbol of Moscow's cultural heritage and multi-ethnic society. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to understand the cultural richness of the past and discover one of the rarest examples of Soviet art.

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