The balloon featured in the sculpture is designed to represent the classic vessels seen in Verne's 'Five Weeks in a Balloon'.
The monument was installed in Nizhny Novgorod due to the author's reference to the city in his novel 'Michael Strogoff'.
The sculpture is crafted from bronze, weighing several tons, and is mounted on a solid stone base.
The location was specifically chosen for its panoramic views of the Strelka, where the Oka and Volga rivers meet.
The Pamyatnik Zhyulyu Vernu is a bronze monument in Nizhny Novgorod dedicated to French novelist Jules Verne. It depicts the author sitting in a hot air balloon, referencing his literary themes of exploration and travel. The sculpture is situated on the Zalomova Street embankment overlooking the confluence of the Oka and Volga rivers. It was installed in 2015 as part of a collaboration between the local administration and cultural organizations. The artwork serves as a tribute to the city's connection to literature and the history of exploration. It is a popular photo spot for visitors walking along the riverfront promenade.
From the river-facing side, capturing both the author in the balloon and the confluence of the rivers in the background.
Visit during the golden hour to capture the bronze details without harsh shadows.
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Fedorovsky Embankment for extended river views.
Check the local weather forecast, as the exposed riverside location can be significantly windier than the city center.
Do not attempt to climb onto the balloon or the sculpture base, as it is a protected monument.
