Panorama of the Moscow Kremlin in the 1890s from the construction site of the Alexander II Liberator monument

Monument To Alexander Ii Of Russia

Visiting the Monument to Alexander II of Russia in Moscow: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Monument to Alexander II in Moscow stands as a distinguished symbol of Russia’s imperial past and reformist legacy. Known as the “Tsar Liberator,” Alexander II’s reign (1855–1881) was transformative, most notably for the emancipation of the serfs in 1861, which freed over 23 million people. Situated near the restored Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and close to the Kremlin, the monument is more than a statue—it is a place where visitors can connect with the complex narrative of Russian history, modernization, and cultural identity.

This comprehensive guide explores the monument’s history, artistic features, cultural significance, and practical information for visitors, including accessibility, ticketing (free entry), travel tips, and nearby attractions. Whether you are passionate about Russian history, architecture, or culture, the Monument to Alexander II offers a meaningful and accessible way to engage with Moscow’s heritage.

For updated information on visiting hours, guided tours, and special events, consult resources such as the Wikipedia article on the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Trek Zone’s Moscow monuments guide, and Rusmania’s detailed monument overview.

Monument to Alexander II in Moscow before deconstruction

Monument to Alexander II in Moscow viewed from Ivanovskaya Square in the 1910s

Pre-revolutionary Russian postcard of the Kremlin in 1900

Alexander II Memorial in Moscow Kremlin built 1893-1898

Panorama of Moscow cityscape from Ivan the Great Bell Tower in 1901

statue monument of Aleksandr II in the Kremlin Moscow

Historic general plan of part of the Moscow Kremlin and the commemorative monument to Emperor Alexander II, opened in 1898 and demolished in 1918

View of the Alexander II monument under construction near the Nicholas Palace in Moscow Kremlin in 1898

Monument to Emperor Alexander II at the Kremlin in Russia during the opening ceremony in August 1898

Monument to Emperor Alexander II in the Moscow Kremlin circa 1904-1905

Laying monument ceremony for Emperor Alexander II in Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, 1893

Monument to Alexander II at the Moscow Kremlin in the 1900s

Monument to Alexander II at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, created between 1898 and 1910

Mosaic image of the Russian state eagle on the sails of the main canopy of the monument to Emperor Alexander II in Moscow

Mosaic ceiling decoration fragment featuring monument to Alexander II with Prince Yaroslav the Wise holding the Russian Truth book at Moscow Kremlin gallery

Gypsum model of the monument to Russian Emperor Alexander II in the Kremlin

Panoramic view of the eastern side of the Moscow Kremlin from the bell tower, featuring the monument to Emperor Alexander II, the dome of the Church of Saints Constantine and Helena, and the Tainitsky Garden, with Raushskaya Embankment, the 1886 Electricity Society power plant, the old Bolshoy Moskvoretsky Bridge, Vasilievsky Spusk Square buildings, Moskvoretskaya Street, Zaryadye, and the Imperial Orphanage in the background, winter scene from the 1908 film 'Moscow under Snow'

Historical Background

Origins and Commissioning

Following Alexander II’s assassination in 1881, the Russian imperial family and government sought to honor his memory and lasting reforms. The original monument was constructed near the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, a site of religious and national importance (Wikipedia: Cathedral of Christ the Saviour), and unveiled in 1898. It quickly became a focal point for national remembrance, symbolizing hope for progress and the spirit of reform.

Architectural and Artistic Features of the Original Monument

The first monument, designed by Alexander Opekushin (sculptor), Peter Zhukovsky (artist), and Nicholas V. Sultanov (architect), featured a grand bronze statue of Alexander II standing under an ornate granite canopy, surrounded by a gallery with thirty-three mosaic portraits of Russian rulers (tsarnicholas.org). The monument’s setting above the Taynitsky Gardens and facing the Moskva River made it a prominent part of the Kremlin’s landscape and Moscow’s ceremonial life.

Soviet Era: Destruction and Erasure

After the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, Soviet authorities began erasing imperial symbols, and the original monument was demolished in 1918 (RFE/RL). The site remained vacant for decades, and Alexander II’s reformist legacy was largely omitted from Soviet narratives.

Revival and Reconstruction

Russia’s post-Soviet period saw a reappraisal of its imperial past. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was rebuilt between 1995 and 2000 (Wikipedia: Cathedral of Christ the Saviour), and in 2005, a new Monument to Alexander II was unveiled nearby, designed by Alexander Rukavishnikov. This modern monument echoes the original’s intent, placing Alexander II’s memory in the context of Russia’s spiritual and national identity (Trek Zone).

Monument Design and Symbolism

The current statue, standing 5 meters tall atop a 5-meter granite pedestal, presents Alexander II in military attire, conveying both authority and benevolence (Wikipedia). Inscriptions on the pedestal summarize his achievements: the emancipation of the serfs, military and judicial reforms, introduction of local self-government, and his tragic assassination in 1881 (Rusmania). The statue’s placement on a landscaped slope enhances its visibility and symbolic relationship with the nearby cathedral.

Visiting Information

Location

The monument stands beside the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, in the Khamovniki District, within Moscow’s Boulevard Ring. The address is ulitsa Volkhonka, 15, Moscow, Russia, just a short walk from the Kropotkinskaya metro station.

Visiting Hours

As an open-air monument in a public park, the site is accessible 24/7 year-round. For the best experience and lighting, visit during daylight hours—early morning or late afternoon is ideal for photography.

Tickets and Admission

There is no admission fee or ticket required to visit the monument. The surrounding park is free and open to all. Tickets may be required for entry to the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, especially during events or exhibitions.

Accessibility

The park area around the monument is wheelchair accessible, with paved walkways and ramps. The site is suitable for visitors of all ages and mobility levels.

How to Get There

Take the metro to Kropotkinskaya station (Line 1), then walk approximately 5–10 minutes to the monument. The area is well-signposted and pedestrian-friendly.

Visiting Experience

The Monument to Alexander II offers a peaceful setting for reflection, surrounded by landscaped gardens and views of the cathedral and Moscow River. The site is popular with tourists and locals, especially during city events or religious holidays. Benches, shaded areas, and nearby cafes make it comfortable for visitors. While there are no dedicated visitor facilities at the monument itself, amenities can be found at the adjacent cathedral complex.

Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour: Russia’s largest Orthodox church, rebuilt after Soviet demolition (Wikipedia).
Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts: Renowned for European art collections.
Patriarshy Bridge: Offers panoramic city and river views.
Alexander Garden: Historic public park, home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (The Broke Backpacker).
The Kremlin: Iconic fortified complex, political and historical heart of Moscow.

A visit to the monument fits seamlessly into a walking tour of Moscow’s historic core, with many attractions within easy reach.

Cultural and Educational Significance

The monument is a site of national memory, reflecting on reform, progress, and Russia’s evolving identity. It plays a role in annual commemorations, school group visits, and public debates about history and politics. Its artistic features and inscriptions invite visitors to learn about Alexander II’s reforms and the broader context of 19th-century Russian modernization (Tretyakov Gallery Magazine).

Visitor Etiquette and Practical Tips

Photography is welcome; however, drones require special authorization due to the proximity of government buildings and the cathedral.
Respectful behavior is encouraged, particularly during commemorative events or in the presence of official delegations.
Dress appropriately for the season, as the site is outdoors.
Signage is mostly in Russian, but the main inscription appears in English as well (Rusmania).

Notable Facts

Statue Height: 5 meters (statue), 5 meters (pedestal), total 10 meters.
Unveiled: June 7, 2005; funded by private donations and city government (Wikipedia).
Original Monument (1898): First tsarist memorial in the Kremlin, destroyed in 1918 (Vision Kremlin).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Monument to Alexander II visiting hours?
A: The monument is accessible at all times, as it is in a public park.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, the monument is free to visit.

Q: How do I get there?
A: Use the Kropotkinskaya metro station, then walk a short distance to the site.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, many Moscow city and historical tours include the monument. Check with local tour operators.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, paved paths and ramps provide access.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, but drone use requires official permission.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

Optimized photos of the monument with the cathedral in the background (alt: “Monument to Alexander II in Moscow with Cathedral of Christ the Saviour”).
A map highlighting the monument’s location relative to Kropotkinskaya station and nearby attractions.
Links to virtual tours of the cathedral and museum exhibits.

Summary & Final Recommendations

Visiting the Monument to Alexander II offers an opportunity to reflect on Russia’s journey through reform, resilience, and cultural transformation. Its location, free access, and thoughtful design make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Moscow’s history. Combine your visit with other nearby attractions to experience the heart of Russia’s political, spiritual, and artistic heritage.

To stay informed about special events, guided tours, and the latest updates, download the Audiala app and follow local tourism channels. For further reading and planning, consult the sources below.