Mini-sculptures in Transcarpathia - the region’s most charming residents
Despite the fact that the idea of creating mini-monuments is not entirely new, in Transcarpathian Uzhhorod and Mukachevo they have ‘fitted in’ in their own way, wonderfully complementing the small cosy streets, the setting of the ancient European architecture and the general atmosphere of the cities.
To visit Transcarpathia and not to get acquainted with at least a few of these charming monuments - is simply a crime! So, when you are in Uzhhorod or even in Mukachevo, be sure to find a few of them; it really is worth it!
The first mini-sculptures in Transcarpathia
The very first Transcarpathian mini-sculpture was the miniature monument to Saint Nicholas’s helper, who came to be affectionately called Mykolaychyk. Its appearance was announced as a letter from Saint Nicholas himself, in which he made it known that very soon, in Uzhhorod people would be able to turn to his messenger. One who would have a special mission in the city, as well as the honorary title of Saint Nicholas’s official representative. Mykolaychyk became the first, smallest sculpture in Transcarpathia, standing just 16 cm tall. He took up residence on the railings in the central part of one of the Uzhhorod embankments in December 2010. Since then his kind face and warm smile have delighted everyone who comes up to him. Besides, people believe that if you rub Mykolaychyk’s little nose and make a wish at the same time, it is sure to come true.
Just a few months after this, another ‘mini-resident’ appeared in the centre of Uzhhorod - a miniature depiction of the famous Statue of Liberty. It too came to be called something affectionate and, at the same time, slightly ironic - Svobodka. In this way, Svobodka in Uzhhorod became the smallest Statue of Liberty in the world. On top of all this, Svobodka is also a lighthouse. She was unveiled during the traditional descent in home-made boats down the Uzh River - the ‘Uzhhorod Regatta’ .
Besides, the Transcarpathian Svobodka has one more interesting feature - it turns out that Svobodka - is a real fashionista! For the little sculpture is regularly dressed up in various guises - from a sailor girl to a bride - depending on the events taking place in the city.
The mini-sculpture collection of Uzhhorod - can you find them all?
After this, mini-sculptures began to appear regularly in Uzhhorod, and a little later in Mukachevo too. There are already several dozen of them across the whole of Transcarpathia. Most of these little sculptures were created by the well-known Transcarpathian sculptor Mykhailo Kolodko. The creation of many of them was funded by local patrons, as well as by many other willing contributors. For example, the money to create the mini-monument to the Deep Purple musician Jon Lord was raised by local fans of his work.
As mentioned above, at present there are 26 mini-sculptures in Uzhhorod, and this number keeps on growing, which cannot fail to please. Most of these sculptures are located in the city centre, or not far from the centre. But, nonetheless, they are not always easy to find, and sometimes you come across one when you are least expecting it! It is most likely for this reason that the idea arose of a fascinating quest around the Uzhhorod mini-sculptures, which has become especially beloved among children, but will be no less interesting for adults.
In addition, one of our most original and enjoyable excursions is precisely the excursion around Uzhhorod called “Uzhhorod with the aroma of coffee and mini-sculptures”. During this excursion you will not only get acquainted with the wonderful mini-sculptures - monuments to famous people and ideas connected with Transcarpathia, but will also discover the famous Transcarpathian tradition of coffee drinking, understand what a true cult of coffee is and taste the most delicious coffee in Transcarpathia.
Join our other regular excursions around Transcarpathia. Believe us, there is still so much you have not seen!
