On January 27, 2021, a monumental sculpture of Stefan Nemanja, founder of the medieval Serbian state, was unveiled in Belgrade. The work was created by Russian sculptor Alexander Rukavishnikov, People’s Artist of Russia and Academician of the Russian Academy of Arts.
Installed in the renovated Savski Square, the 23.5-meter monument is rich in symbolism. Stefan Nemanja stands on a broken Byzantine helmet,

referencing the historical connection between Serbian and Byzantine culture. The multilayered pedestal incorporates the form of a gilded episcopal scepter of his son Saint Sava, symbolizing the spiritual foundations of the Serbian state. The monument, weighing up to 80 tons, became one of the most prominent contemporary monuments in Europe.

Stefan Nemanja
Belgrade