Statue of Peter the Great

The statue of Peter the Great, memory of an imperial visit

The Liège audio-guided tour stops you before the statue of Peter the Great, a recent monument that recalls a striking episode in the city's history. In June 1717, Tsar Peter I of Russia made a stop here, during his great journey across Europe.

The tsar at Liège and Spa

At the time, the principality of Liège welcomed the sovereign with splendour, aware of the importance of this monarch who sought to modernise his empire by drawing on Western knowledge. Peter the Great also spent nearly a month at Spa, taking the waters on his doctors' advice. This stay added to the international fame of the spa town, which keeps its memory with the Pouhon Pierre-le-Grand.

What there is to see

The bronze statue you see was inaugurated in 2017, to mark the three hundred years of the tsar's visit. It is part of the commemorations of Peter I's European journey and recalls the old ties between Liège, Spa and Russia. It is a discreet but evocative landmark of an unexpected diplomatic history.

Practical information

The statue of Peter the Great is in central Liège and can be seen freely at all hours, on the level, during the walk. It complements a visit to the places linked to the memory of the principality and its illustrious guests.

When was the statue inaugurated?

It was inaugurated in 2017, for the tercentenary of Peter the Great's visit to Liège during his great European journey of 1717.

What link does Peter the Great have with the region?

During his journey in 1717, he stayed in Liège and then nearly a month at Spa for a thermal cure. The spa town keeps its memory with the Pouhon Pierre-le-Grand.