Statue of Saint Volodymyr

The statue of Saint Volodymyr stands in Holland Park, London, on a corner where Holland Park meets Holland Park Avenue. It is a bronze work by the Canadian-Ukrainian sculptor Leo Mol, completed in 1988. The statue was unveiled on 29 May that year to mark the 1,000th anniversary of the Christianisation of Kievan Rus’. A second statue by the same artist was later placed in Rome. The London statue was commissioned to honour a historical figure whose influence shaped early Eastern European culture. The statue is worth the journey because it commemorates a pivotal moment in history. Kievan Rus’ adopted Christianity in the 10th century under Volodymyr the Great, and this work celebrates that legacy. The sculptor Leo Mol, known for his bronze figures, created a piece that reflects both artistic skill and cultural significance. The unveiling drew attention to the shared heritage between Ukraine and the wider Slavic world. Its placement in London also connects the Ukrainian community with a public monument in the city. Visitors find a bronze figure standing on a pedestal in a quiet corner of Holland Park. The statue depicts Saint Volodymyr holding a cross, symbolising his role in spreading Christianity. Nearby, the Embassy of Ukraine is also located in Holland Park, adding to the area’s cultural importance. The park itself is a green space in Kensington and Chelsea, offering a peaceful setting for reflection. The statue serves as a reminder of historical ties between Ukraine and Europe.