I happen to bumped into one quirky superstition while reading articles and editorials online about Russia’s cultural capital, St. Petersburg. One irrational belief by the locals is about the magical powers of the huge and hard-to-miss Atlas sculptures near the Hermitage, one of the striking and imposing symbols of this lovely city.
The Sculptures of Atlas has been around since 1848 and surprisingly stayed standing even during the bomb-filled events of the Great Patriotic War. Because of obtaining only minor damage during the war, locals reaffirmed on the unorthodox mystical nature of these sculptures.
super massive sculptures of atlas! look at how small people has become at the lower left portion of this image.
proof! hahaha!
People now would troop to these sculptures to touch the toes of Atlas which is believed to bring protection to those who rub it. Also, locals and tourists alike come to the area to hold the big toes of Atlas because it is believed that it will bring good luck as well as make their wishes come true.
I actually got the chance to pass by three times in the area. And three times did I go up so as to touch the wishing toe of Atlas. One actually already came true prior to touching the wishing toe. It is the awesome blessing sent by the heavens of seeing, feeling and smelling the charming city of St. Petersburg, Russia!
Here’s a video slideshow of photos & clips I took during my exploit with the Sculptures of Atlas.
Nengkoy 