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A wooden bust of Vladimir Lenin that mysteriously washed ashore in Akcakoca, Duzce in 1993 and later vanished has finally been found. According to T24, the sculpture, which became the subject of public intrigue and even inspired a feature film, will go on display on June 21, according to an announcement by the Akcakoca Municipality.
To mark the occasion, the acclaimed film "Sen Ben Lenin" (You, Me, Lenin)—which draws directly from the statue's strange backstory—will be screened in the town’s open-air amphitheatre on the same day.
When the Lenin statue first appeared on the Black Sea coast more than three decades ago, it sparked curiosity and controversy in equal measure. The bust, carved in wood and bearing the unmistakable visage of the Soviet leader, stirred debate over its origins and meaning in a post-Cold War Türkiye.
After briefly making headlines, the statue mysteriously disappeared, feeding urban legends, conspiracy theories, and eventually a screenplay.
“Lenin left his mark on the 20th century, and it seems his statue will leave its mark on the 21st century of Akcakoca,” said Akcakoca Mayor Fikret Albayrak, who had previously tried—unsuccessfully—to exhibit the piece in earlier terms of office.
The rediscovery of the statue has brought renewed attention to "Sen Ben Lenin," a film co-written by Baris Bicakci and Tufan Tastan, and directed by Tastan. Though its initial request to premiere in Akcakoca was denied, the film will now be shown in the very town where the mystery began.
Tufan Tastan expressed excitement about the unexpected turn of events: “I never had the chance to see the statue before, despite my efforts. To be here with the film crew and witness this moment feels magical.”
The statue's public debut and the film screening are expected to draw locals and visitors alike, breathing new life into one of Türkiye’s most peculiar cultural sagas.
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