VI Lenin in Ceadir-Lunga

VI Lenin in Ceadir-Lunga – Gagauzia – Moldova

The statue of VI Lenin in Ceadir-Lunga is, perhaps, one of the saddest I’ve seen. The statue is life size but because it stands at the edge of a large square it seems somewhat lost. I’m assuming that the building in front of which he stands used to be one of the most important official buildings in the town – with it being the location of Lenin’s statue and with the large, open meeting place. At the time of my visit the building was undergoing renovation but from what to what is unknown.

Vladimir Ilyich is depicted in an informal stance. He looks out over the square, dressed in a suit and waistcoat, with the thumb of his left hand in the waistcoat’s pocket. I don’t know when, by whom or why but the statue has been painted in gold paint – and not very carefully or professionally. It must have been some time ago as the paint, in places, is starting to flake.

This painting of Lenin statues has happened in a number of places. For example, his statue was painted silver in the Petrov Factory Settlement in Stalingrad – the paint which is now seriously falling away. On each occasion I’m never sure why. Is it a sign of respect – but if so why is the task so often carried out badly and with no follow up maintenance? Or was the intention mockery from the start? Whatever the reason the town of Ceadir-Lunga makes a big deal of having a ‘golden’ VI Lenin statue. If the town should ever get more than a handful of visitors then perhaps they might make a better job of the painting.