PHOTO: artist concept of the bust-monument to be installed
on the grounds of Tomsk Polytechnic University

Later this month, a new bust-monument of Emperor Nicholas II is to be installed on the grounds of Polytechnic University (TPU) in the Russian city of Tomsk.

Founded in 1604, Tomsk is one of the oldest cities in Siberia. It has six universities, with over 100,000 students, including Tomsk State University, the oldest university in Siberia.

TPU was founded by the Ministry of National Education of the Russian Empire in 1896 as Tomsk Technological Institute of Emperor Nicholas II. In 1917, the institute was renamed into Tomsk Technological Institute.. 

Earlier this week, workers cut down two large pruned poplars and several damaged weeds that did not survive the winter, to make way for the new bust-monument and pedestal. There are also plans to carry out cosmetic repairs of the façade of the building.

Once the bust-monument has been installed, the area surrounding the composition will be landscaped with large shrubs. In addition, four benches will be installed for students and residents to relax while admiring the bronze memorial to Russia’s last Tsar.

PHOTO: artist concept whiich shows the landscaping proposed for he bust-monument to be installed on the grounds of Tomsk Polytechnic University

Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, more than 100 monuments, sculptures, busts and memorial plaques to Nicholas II have been installed in cities and towns across the Russian Federation.

© Paul Gilbert. 12 May 2026