At the entrance to the ancient Azov, a symbolic monument has been erected, a protective cross combined with a white obelisk. This sculptural structure was unveiled on October 14, 2005, during the Feast of the Protection of the Holy Virgin. The cross is engraved with the words: "Save, O Lord, Your people and bless all that belongs to You. Grant victory over enemies to Orthodox Christians and preserve by the power of Your Cross those among whom You dwell." Below the cross is an inscription emphasizing its significance: "May the Lord protect this city." The cross is made in the Russian style, reaching a height of 3 meters and weighing one ton. At night, the cross and inscription are illuminated by neon lights. The cross was consecrated by the archpriest Alexey Demidov, the dean of the churches of the Azov district. Previously, the pilgrimage cross was blessed by Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and All Russia.