Monument to Hryhorii Skovoroda

On one of Kyiv's oldest squares, Kontraktova Square, a monument to the well-known Ukrainian-Russian philosopher, poet, teacher and enlightener Hryhorii Skovoroda was installed in 1977. The monument was created by the Ukrainian sculptor Ivan Kavaleridze, and the architect was Vasyl Hnizdylov.

The five-meter bronze figure of the poet is shown full-length and stands on a low pedestal of black marble. The Skovoroda monument is located opposite the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. The location is not accidental, since Hryhorii Skovoroda studied, and later also taught, at this educational institution

• Interesting facts:
  The author's original idea was a barefoot figure of Skovoroda walking with a cross around his neck and a Bible in his hands. However, the authorities did not approve this version, so the cross had to be removed, the book placed in a bag, and the feet put into shoes.
• Students believe that to pass an exam well, you should hold on to Skovoroda's shoes.
• On Kyiv-Mohyla Academy Day, 14 October, the monument is always washed by students.
• Since August 2020, a white-red-white flag has been visible on the poet's neck on the monument. It was tied by students of the academy in a sign of solidarity with the Belarusian people, who at that time were protesting against the falsification of the presidential election.