The statue is nicknamed 'Alyosha' after the soldier Alexei Ivanovich Skurlatov, who served as one of the models for the monument.
The monument was constructed using 11 meters of granite and was unveiled to the public in 1957.
Bunarjik Hill, where the statue stands, is also known as Hill of the Liberators.
There have been several attempts by local activists and political groups to demolish or relocate the monument since 1989, but the structure remains in its original location.
The song 'Alyosha' was a popular Soviet-era anthem dedicated to this specific monument.
The Alyosha monument is a 10.5-meter tall granite statue of a Soviet soldier located at the summit of Bunarjik Hill in Plovdiv. Erected in 1957, the monument depicts a soldier holding a PPSh-41 submachine gun pointed toward the ground. It serves as a prominent landmark visible from almost every point in the city center. The statue sits atop a 6-meter high pedestal adorned with bas-reliefs depicting scenes of the Soviet army. It remains a focal point of intense historical and political debate regarding Bulgaria's Soviet-era heritage. Visitors access the monument via a winding walking path leading from the base of the hill to the summit. The site is a popular vantage point for observing the Plovdiv cityscape and the distant Rhodope Mountains.
From the base of the pedestal looking upward to capture the contrast of the granite statue against the sky.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the ascent up Bunarjik Hill is steep and involves uneven pavement.
Bring a bottle of water, as there are limited facilities once you begin the climb to the top of the hill.
Visit during a clear day to take advantage of the unobstructed 360-degree views of the city.
Do not attempt to drive to the very top, as vehicle access is restricted and the road is primarily for pedestrian use.
