Roman Karkosik's 55.6‑metre Mother of God statue in Konotop

A 55.6‑metre statue of the Mother of God, funded by Polish billionaire Roman Karkosik and his wife Grażyna, is set to become the tallest such monument in Europe. The project, costing about 100 million zł, is slated for an official unveiling on 15 August in the town of Konotop, where organizers expect up to 10 000 visitors.

Local residents are divided. Some welcome the potential boost to tourism, while others argue the money would be better spent on hospitals, shelters or other community needs. Critics also point to inadequate infrastructure – narrow access roads and limited parking – that could strain the town during the ceremony.