Monument to Paul Keres

The Paul Keres Monument in Narva is located in the city center on Pushkin Alley. The memorial features a sculpture of a chess player sitting at a table in front of a chessboard. Anyone can sit opposite and play an imaginary game with the grandmaster. It’s a perfect spot for an Instagram photo.

The History of Narva’s Paul Keres Monument

Narva’s monument to Paul Keres was unveiled on January 7, 2016. The unveiling was timed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the birth of the most famous Estonian chess player. Additionally, the International Chess Federation declared 2016 as the Year of Paul Keres.

The main initiator behind erecting the monument in Narva was local entrepreneur Alexander Brokk. He also contributed nearly half of its cost. The Estonian Ministry of Culture and the city of Narva also provided financial support. The total budget for the monument was 80,000 euros.

The authors of the monument are sculptors Aivar Simson and Paul Mänd. From the inception of the idea to the project’s realization, three years passed. The specific idea to erect a monument to Keres in Narva was first proposed in 2013.

Paul Keres’ Connection to Narva

Paul Keres was born in Narva. The monument is installed not far from where the house he lived in once stood. This building was destroyed during World War II and was not subsequently rebuilt. Keres, who became the USSR Chess Champion three times, is buried at Metsakalmistu Cemetery in Tallinn.

Map Location

Other Places of Interest

• Narva also features the “Five-Kroon Viewing Platform“, which is indirectly related to Paul Keres.
• Regarding significant anniversaries, Narva has the EV100 Park. Its construction was a gift from the city to the republic for its birthday.
• One of the best places for a stroll in Narva is the Dark Garden. It is located on Victoria Bastion, offering a fantastic view of the neighboring country.