Monument's massive base

The Bronze Horseman of Saint Petersburg sits on a granite base weighing around 1,500 tonnes. This massive stone was moved from a marshy area near the Gulf of Finland in the winter of 1770, when freezing temperatures made the ground solid enough to support its weight.

Transporting the stone

The granite block was moved using a system involving bronze spheres, movable rails, and a metal sled. It advanced approximately 45 meters per day, pulled by 512 men operating 16 machines. This method allowed the stone to slide smoothly over the frozen ground.

Origin of the stone

The granite block was discovered in Lakhta, near Saint Petersburg, after a local peasant pointed it out. Known as the "Thunder Stone," its original weight is estimated between 1,500 and 1,800 tonnes, making it one of the heaviest stones ever moved by humans.

Engineering the move

The transport was overseen by Marin Carburi, a Greek-born military engineer. He designed the system to move the stone from its marshy location to the shore, where it was then transported by barge to its final destination in the city.

Catherine II's involvement

Empress Catherine II personally observed the movement of the stone. An engraving from 1770 shows her standing near the transport site, highlighting the significance of the project. The frozen ground and carefully designed system ensured the stone reached its destination safely.

Legacy of the feat

The successful transport of the Thunder Stone marked a remarkable achievement in 18th-century engineering. A commemorative medal was created to honor the effort, and the stone remains a notable part of Saint Petersburg's history. The base now supports the Bronze Horseman, a statue of Peter the Great, in the city's Senate Square.