The Magdeburg Rights Monument
In the 13th century in the German city of Magdeburg was first created municipality subsequently spread to other cities and countries. The right to him, out of habit, came to be called Magdeburg. In Kiev, Magdeburg Law was used in the 15th century, during the reign of Grand Duchy of Lithuania. All kings, kings and princes confirmed the privilege of Kiev . It is also right in 1764 confirmed Catherine II. But in later years there have been changes in the state - entered the city council, to establish a judicial system, was issued a series of legislative acts. This was the reason for the cancellation of Magdeburg Law in Kiev. It was only in 1798 Paul I returned the right to the city.
In the early 19th century by the architect Andrey Melevskogo on donations Kyiv residents built a stone chapel, which is crowned with a small column of gilded dome. The construction is located above the source of the once existed in the Groin ravine at the foot of Vladimir`s Hill , where, according to legend, Prince Vladimir baptized their children. This place is highly esteemed among the Orthodox, because it is here that was born of Christianity in Russia. For many centuries, were sent here processions and services were held. That is why the monument has a second name - "a monument to the Baptism of Russia."
On the column were two inscriptions of gratitude - one dedicated to St. Vladimir - Baptist of Russia, the other - Alexander I. Knowing about the oppression of imperial power in the municipality, the townspeople decided to erect a tower, reminding Alexander I of his decree confirming the Magdeburg Law in Kiev.
Column Magdeburg law is one of the oldest monuments in Kiev. Architectural composition consists of a pedestal and columns of the Tuscan order. In arched pedestal was previously octagonal pool with a fountain fed by a well-vodozbornika. In 1867 created a new pool in the form of a bowl. Later, in 1915, by architect Michael Bobrusova was built ladder by which you can now get up to the monument.
During the Soviet era monument is very hurt. It was decided to demolish the chapel, and as a result of it were left alone arched passageways, and the inscription dedicated to Prince Vladimir, erased. The monument was given a new name - The column Magdeburg law.
By the 1025th anniversary of the Baptism of Kievan Rus` was a large-scale restoration of the monument and the surrounding area, fully renovated staircase leading to the column.
The height of the monument is 23 meters high and consists of a base and column. The monument is a Tuscan columns, height 18.4 meters, topped with a spherical tower on top. Column Magdeburg law confirms the European history of Ukraine.
