The monument of Elena Pherekyde

Inaugurated in 1921, The monument of Elena Pherekyde in Cișmigiu Park was created in 1914 by the Romanian sculptor Oscar Späthe. The monument was made in the form of an obelisk from two elements: a plinth in Cararra marble on which is carved, in the front, the image of Elena Pherekyde standing helping a mother and child, and a bust, also in marble which, after 1989, disappeared, being restored and placed in 2017.

Who was Elena Pherekyde?

Coming from a famous and very wealthy family, Elena Pherekide was the maid of honor of Queen Carmen Sylva and president of the “Obolul” Charity Society.

She was known for her actions to help the poor. According to what was mentioned by the historian Constantin Bacalbaşa, she could often be seen at one of the kiosks in Cișmigiu selling things for the benefit of the needy, orphans and war widows.

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