On the 20th anniversary of its independence, Macedonia’s capital unveiled a new object of city pride: the Warrior on a Horse Fountain in Macedonia Square.
The 14.5 meter bronze sculpture sitting atop a 10 meter high base represents a mighty warrior rearing up on horseback with his sword thrust high above his head. Beneath the statue, there is a beautiful fountain whose water practically dances to music.
Around the fountain are eight 3-meter-tall bronze soldiers carrying shields bearing the famous Vergina Sun, also known as the Macedonian star. This symbol was widely used by King Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. Today it is a symbol of modern Macedonia.
The soldiers represent the ancient soldiers forming part of the famous Alexander’s phalanx, an infantry formation developed by Philip II and later used to great effect by his son Alexander the Great in his conquest of much of the known world. The soldiers fought lined up in a closed rectangular formation, traditionally eight men deep with a leader at the head of each column. The eight soldiers of the statue are a nod to this basic unit of organization.
In addition, there are eight 2.5-meter tall lions, four facing in towards the center of the fountain and the other four facing outwards in a seated, guardian position. The lion is a symbol of courage, strength, fearlessness, and royalty.
Finally, on the very pillar of the base, there are three bronze rings with plaques representing three important battles.
The monument fountain is very impressive and awe-inspiring, a great meeting place for lovers and friends. The fountain steps offer an inviting respite from the stress of work and daily life. At a time when Macedonia is working hard to bolster national pride, this monument is a wonderful tool for accomplishing that task.
See views of the Warrior on a Horse Fountain and other elements of the Skopje 2014 project:
No comments yet.