Serbian Statue of Prince Aleksa Popović Becomes Viral Sensation for Its Ability to Spin

A statue of Prince Aleksa Popović in the Serbian town of Kosjerić has unexpectedly become a viral phenomenon, not for its historical significance, but for its peculiar ability to rotate on its post. Initial images circulating on social media sparked confusion, with many believing the monument had been installed incorrectly, appearing upside down relative to its base.

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I'm truly ashamed that Prince Aleksa has become known in Serbia for spinning in Kosjerić, and not for his contributions during the First Serbian Uprising.

However, upon closer inspection by local media, it was confirmed that the statue is not upside down but rather capable of spinning. The monument, located in front of an old Turkish inn in the town center, faces away from the street. This unusual feature has led to widespread curiosity and discussion among residents. "I'm truly ashamed that Prince Aleksa has become known in Serbia for spinning in Kosjerić, and not for his contributions during the First Serbian Uprising," commented Slaviša Kosorić, a local resident.

Social media users have shared videos and reactions, with one post humorously noting, "In Kosjerić, after renovation and corrections, the bust of Prince Aleksa Popović is turned upside down 🤦🤦🤦😂😂😂😂. Luckily, it's not headfirst 😂." The statue, originally unveiled a decade ago, is situated in a main street area with cafes, attracting attention, especially on weekends when it has become a point of interest due to its viral status.

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In Kosjerić, after renovation and corrections, the bust of Prince Aleksa Popović is turned upside down. Luckily, it's not headfirst.

Snežana Joksimović from the Kosjerić Tourist Organization drew a parallel between the spinning statue and a song titled "Just Don't Let the Prince Turn Around" by poet Radisav Cajić, who, like Prince Aleksa, hailed from the village of Subjel near Kosjerić. The song's narrative involves a character fearing a prince's movement during a romantic rendezvous. Joksimović suggested a symbolic connection, as if the poet's words had somehow foreshadowed this event.

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This is the main street and the area with cafes. People go out on Fridays and Saturdays. Especially now that it has become viral that it can turn. You can approach and see that it is not fixed.

Municipal officials stated they were unaware of the situation but had heard reports that children might be responsible for turning the statue. They indicated that inspections would be dispatched to determine the cause of the problem, though no timeline has been provided for when the statue will be repaired or secured.

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In that song, it's about him sitting with his chosen one in a cafe across from the National Theater. Drinking mulled wine, and during that romantic meeting, he fears only that the prince (Mihajlo) will not turn around. And as if he somehow invoked that another prince turns around. There is some symbolism there.