Introducing Lutsk’s Latest Town Crier Sculptures
Two fresh sculptures depicting town criers—Taras Mokryi and Ivanko Chystyi—have been unveiled in Lutsk, showcasing the history of the city’s water supply and sewage systems. These artworks are part of the "Lutsk Town Crier" initiative led by the Lutsk City Council’s Department of Tourism and Promotion. Placed at different city spots, each statue features a QR code that offers visitors detailed stories about these characters.
Ivanko Chystyi can be found on Lesya Ukrainka Street near building number 16, while Taras Mokryi stands by the fountain in the park opposite Lyceum No. 4. Taras represents the dedicated workers of the municipal company "Lutskvodokanal," which provides water to Lutsk and 14 surrounding villages. According to the city’s tourism department:
"Taras Mokryi possessed a unique ability to sense where the purest underground water flowed and identified ideal locations for new wells. Today, this legacy continues through Lutskvodokanal, ensuring quality water supply to Lutsk and its neighboring communities."
The Story Behind the "Lutsk Town Crier" Project
Launched in 2015 by the Department of Tourism and Promotion, the "Lutsk Town Crier" project aims to boost the city’s appeal to tourists. The sculptures were created with support from Lutskvodokanal and crafted by sculptor Nika Muzychko. Historically, a "town crier" was a medieval profession (15th–17th centuries) responsible for announcing news and information to city residents.
Ivanko Chystyi embodies the environmental awareness of Lutsk’s citizens. The tourism department explains:
"Why Ivanko Chystyi? Because even during the harsh medieval times, he cared deeply about cleanliness—both personal and communal. Today, he symbolizes Lutsk’s commitment to environmental responsibility and its 'zero waste' program."
Town criers have become a distinctive part of Lutsk’s tourist identity and are incorporated into city tours and scavenger hunts. At each sculpture site, visitors can scan QR codes to learn more about Lutsk’s rich history. As Andriy Razumovsky points out, "Scan the QR codes at these locations to dive deeper into Lutsk’s past."
These new sculptures do more than enhance the city’s aesthetics—they actively promote awareness of Lutsk’s cultural and historical heritage.
The installation of these statues is a step in a broader effort to highlight Lutsk’s cultural legacy and attract visitors. By integrating QR technology, the project enriches the tourist experience and fosters greater interest in the city’s story. Moreover, it reflects a growing focus on environmental issues and cleanliness in urban culture, aligning with contemporary trends in city development.