In almost two months (April 26), it will mark 40 years since the Chernobyl disaster. That’s why I remembered how, during a tour of the main building of the United Nations, I saw a massive tapestry dedicated to the worst nuclear catastrophe in human history.
The tapestry, titled “Chernobyl” and measuring approximately 10 × 4 meters, was presented to the UN in 1991 on behalf of the Republic of Belarus as a political and humanitarian gesture. The country wanted the international community never to forget the scale of the disaster.
The work is entirely handmade (a classic woven tapestry) by artist Alexander Mikhailovich Kishchenko (1933–1997), who later became so passionate about tapestry art that he created the largest tapestry in the world.
It was so enormous that there was practically nowhere large enough to display it. It was exhibited only about seven times, yet it entered the Guinness World Records for its incredible size (19 × 14 meters, 300 kg).
How to Read the “Chernobyl” Tapestry
Interestingly, the tapestry does not depict the tragedy directly: you won’t find a reactor or liquidators on it. Instead, it uses a symbolic language characteristic of icon-painting traditions. The composition is triptych-like, similar to a folding icon, representing the past, present, and future.
On the left is the “Past,” referring to cultural origins: ornamental initials from the books of enlightener Francysk Skaryna. A girl holding a candle symbolizes the eternal life of the soul.
At the center is the “Present,” representing the catastrophe: a rooster crying out in warning. An unrestrained fire bursts out of a circle and from human hands. The flames resemble snakes, like the hair of the avenging goddess Erinyes. Saint George slays the serpent with his spear. A Belarusian boy prays to heaven for mercy for unborn lives — beside him lies a burned stork that will never bring another child.
On the right is the “Future,” or “Hope”: a modern Madonna with Child. A young flute player. A bowl filled with the generous gifts of the earth.
Where to See the “Chernobyl” Tapestry in New York
The “Chernobyl” tapestry is located on the third floor of the UN General Assembly building and is accessible to visitors. Even if you’re not a diplomat, you can see it by taking a guided tour of the complex.
📍 United Nations Headquarters — 405 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017, United States
