Lukhovitsy cucumbers gained national fame due to the town's unique soil and water composition that gives the vegetable a specific crunch.
The monument was designed by sculptor Viktor Gorushkin to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the town's status as a city.
It is a tradition for local newlyweds to visit the cucumber monument to ensure a prosperous and fruitful family life.
The inscription on the pedestal translates to 'Glory to Lukhovitsy Cucumber-Provider', recognizing the crop's historical importance to the local economy.
The Pamyatnik Lukhovitskomu Ogurtsu is a bronze monument dedicated to the cucumber, which is the primary agricultural product and economic symbol of the Lukhovitsy region. Erected in 2007, the sculpture depicts a stylized cucumber standing on a barrel while wearing a cap and holding a small bucket. The monument stands on a stone pedestal situated directly alongside the M-5 Ural highway. It serves as a local mascot, celebrating the town's status as the 'Cucumber Capital' of Russia. The site is an open-air public installation accessible to all travelers passing through the Moscow Oblast region.
Directly in front of the pedestal to capture the full figure of the cucumber and the inscription.
Combine your stop with a visit to the nearby Lukhovitsy local produce markets to sample the actual cucumbers.
The site is located directly on a busy highway, so be mindful of road noise and heavy traffic when approaching.
There are no facilities on-site, so plan to arrive having taken care of personal needs elsewhere.
Do not attempt to walk across the M-5 highway to reach the monument if you are parked on the opposite side; use designated crossings.
