Monument to Taras Shevchenko in Lisbon.

Category: Civil Architecture > Museum

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Restelo

Location

The Taras Shevchenko Monument is located in Praça de Itália (Italy Square), a peaceful, landscaped area situated in the Restelo neighborhood of Lisbon. This residential zone of the city offers a tranquil environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, providing a serene space to observe the monument.

The monument is integrated into an urban setting that invites a moment of pause, allowing for a calm appreciation of the work and its significance, while enjoying the local atmosphere.

A Legacy of Freedom and Culture

This monument pays homage to Taras Shevchenko, one of Ukraine's most influential figures. Recognized as a poet, thinker, and artist, he is frequently referred to as the "Great Kobzar" and the father of the Ukrainian language. His work and life were profoundly marked by the defense of freedom and an unwavering love for his homeland, making him a symbol of resistance and national identity for the Ukrainian people.

The presence of this monument in Lisbon reflects the extensive global homage to Shevchenko, with over thirteen hundred sculptures dedicated to his memory in various countries around the world, underscoring the universality of his message and cultural legacy.

The Sculpture and its Message

Inaugurated in September 2019, the bust of Taras Shevchenko in Lisbon is the result of a project by the Ukrainian community residing in Portugal. The artistic conception of the piece was authored by the Portuguese sculptor Helder de Carvalho, who won the competition for its creation.

The sculpture captures the essence of the honored figure, and engraved at its base is one of Shevchenko's most celebrated and inspiring phrases: "Fight! Combat! God helps you! With you are truth, glory, and sacred liberty". These timeless words invite reflection on the ideals of freedom and justice for which the poet tirelessly fought.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt