Pro-Kremlin activists in the city of Astrakhan have unveiled a bust of Tsar Ivan IV, also known as Ivan the Terrible, on private land after the city's administration refused to locate it on a public site. The idea to place the bust was initiated by the Coordination Council of Veteran Organizations more than a year ago. But it sparked controversy among local residents and officials, who see Ivan IV as a ruler who presided over a reign of terror. Ivan the Terrible conquered the Khanate of Astrakhan in 1556, four years after he conquered the Khanate of Kazan, territories that are now parts of Russia. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Idel.Realities, click here.
Controversial Bust Of Russian Ruler Ivan The Terrible Unveiled In Astrakhan
The bust of Ivan the Terrible before its installation