moscow parks and estates

GUIDEBOOK

Moscow parks and estates

The Royal estates

Estate Parks Gardens Zoo Reserves and hideaways Information

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The Royal estates:

Kolomenskoye Izmailovo Lefortovo Petrovsky Park Tsaritsyno

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Everyone knows that the Russian Tsars lived in the Kremlin, but they also had their own estates outside the city. They tried to surround their residences with all possible splendor to duly impress foreign envoys. Since then, Moscow has increased significantly, and these «suburban» lands have long since become part of the city territory, some of them even being removed

from its borders. Not much has remained from the old buildings, but even from the remnants which may be seen now, the visitors can recreate the lifestyle, daily routines and even the mood of Russian rulers. Especially since these museums con-tain detailed and interesting informa-tion that can satisfy the curiosity of each guest.

Petrovsky park

Izmailovo

Lefortovo

Tsaritsyno

Kolomenskoye

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The State museum-reserve «Kolomenskoye»

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This place is known as a royal resi-dence since the 14th century. And it is no wonder: Kolomenskoye charms, enchants and attracts, becoming the fabric of many legends, some based on real events, and same too fantastic to be true.Modern State Museum-Reserve «Kolo-menskoye» occupies more than 250 hectares and includes former villages Kolomenskoye and Diakovo near Mos-cow, containing about fifty architec-tural, natural and archaeological sites. These include museums, churches, historic buildings, opened for view and preserved for museum purposes foundations of Dining and Bread palaces, an ancient settlement called Diakovo mound, apple orchards, oak trees aged over 500 years old, a group of natural springs «Kadochka», giant boulders of amazing shapes, and much more more. Kolomenskoye also hosts an open-air museum of wooden archi-

tecture. It contains several buildings brought here from different places.Kolomenskoye is the place of many festivals, celebrations and all kinds of events. For example, each year from May 1 to September 30, there is a Sand Sculpture Exhibition (art-pesok.ru); in summer, guests gather here for a unique reenactment festival called «Times and Ages» (временаиэпохи.рф) where you can immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere; widely celebrated here is also the Day of the City as well as other holidays. In museums, interesting exhibitions follow each other, and guided tours are conducted. Museum visitors also have a wonderful opportunity to take a short river cruise on a comfortable boat, with a pier located inside the park as well.Every weekend, guests of Kolomen-skoye have an opportunity to hear the sound of flat chimes calld the bilas.

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It is a unique musical instrument made of metal plates of different sizes ar-ranged in rows on the wooden frame. When one or more musicians are play-ing on bilas, virtually all Kolomenskoye becomes imbued with this wonderful magic sound, filling the heart with joy and harmony. More on this unusual instrument and its creator Alexander Zhikharev may be found at bila.dxi.ru.And, of course, many are attracted to the ancient mystery of this enchanted place, with its history brimming from

a variety of events. Thanks to archaeo-logical excavations, the researchers found that people already began settling here about 2.5 thousand years ago. At the Diakovo village, the Dia-kovo mound was discovered (a habitat of people with tribal system), which gave the name to the Dyakovo ar-chaeological culture. There are finds of even an earlier period, dating back to the Stone Age (5th to 3rd millen-nium BC)! People lived here in the early Middle Ages (8th - 10th century), and in 11th – 12th centuries. All this is confirmed by the results of excava-tions.Written sources first mention the Kolomenskoye in the 14th century, during the reign of Ivan Kalita. Widely known is it for the fact that the troops of Dmitry Donskoy stayed in Kolomen-skoye upon their victorious return from the Battle of Kulikovo (1380).During the rule of Grand Duke of

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Vladimir and Moscow, Vasily III, in the years 1528-1532, the Ascension church was erected there. Presumably, this church was built as a prayer for procreation of the royal couple, Vasily and his second wife, Elena Glinskaya, because the first wife of the king, Solomonia Saburov, failed to produce him an heir. But since such an incred-ibly complex structure took four years to be built, including many changes to the original construction plans, their son Ivan (the future Tsar Ivan the Terrible), born in 1530, got to wit-ness the consecration of the church in 1532 in person.The Ascension church is a unique structure, with nothing at all resem-bling it in the entire history of Russian temple architecture, and it is not by chance that it is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The church is closed now, but there is a museum in its basement. Well seen from the

church of the Ascension is the temple of Beheading of John the Baptist, built in the 16th century. It repre-sents a fairly rare type of multiple pier temples, one of which is the famous St. Basil’s Cathedral (or Pokrovsky Cathedral) on Red Square, built in the same era.Upon death of Ivan the Terrible, a difficult period, the Time of Troubles, began in the history of the country, and again Kolomenskoye became involved in the action. First, in 1606,

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the leader of the peasant revolt Ivan Bolotnikov stayed here with his army, and later, in 1610, False Dmitry II.The end of the Time of Troubles and the rise to power of the Romanov Dynasty opened a new page in Rus-sian history. They also had a benefi-cial impact on the regeneration of Kolomenskoye. So in 1630, under Tsar Mikhail Fedorovich, the first tsar of the Romanov dynasty, the church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God was founded, rebuilt in stone 1649 – 1653, during the reign of his son Alexey

Mikhailovich. Overall, the name of Alexey Mikhailovich is associated with the highest point of Kolomenskoye glory, because by efforts of this mon-arch, a unique wooden palace located near the Kazan Church and connected with it by a covered walkway was built. This palace, of course, did not survive until our time, it became di-lapidated and was taken apart already during the reign of Catherine II, but nowadays, we can see a copy of it, or, as it may be said, its life-size model, which is located in the former Diakovo village, offering an insight into the life and times of the royal family. The restored palace hosts a museum offering guided tours.However, some buildings which were part of the Tsar’s court, survived since the times of Alexey Mikhailovich. Among them are, for instance, the Front and Back Gates, Clerks Cham-bers and the Colonel’s House. Inside the Front Gate, there is presently a detailed exposition about the history

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of Kolomenskoye. Much about the first water pipes, their creation and the mechanism of their action can be found inside the Water Tower. A plea column on which petitioners could put their requests or complaints to the tsar called pleas has also survived the flow of times. All objects in the reserve are supplemented by signs with interest-ing descriptions.The son of Alexey Mikhailovich, Peter I, was born in Kolomenskoye, at least according to a legend, and here he spent his childhood as well. To com-memorate him, the House of Peter I was transferred here from Archangelsk. But this tsar, as it is well known, was busy founding an entirely new capital, so no construction was conducted here in his time.Catherine II ordered the palace of Alexey Mikhailovich to be disassem-bled and to build a new one near the church of the Ascension. This palace was raided during the war of 1812, thus it did not survive until our time,

just like the next one, built on its foundation by decree of Alexander I. Only one small pavilion remained from the last of the royal palaces. This is why presently the Museum-Reserve «Kolomenskoye» contains mostly buildings from 14th – 17th centuries.In the twentieth century, namely in 1923, a museum was founded in Kolomenskoye based at the existing historic architectural ensemble, which is currently one of the most popular tourist destinations in the capital.

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Izmailovo park

PARTIZANSKAYA

Alleya Bolshogo kruga

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Izmaylovskoe shosse

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RinkBus st. №7, 131

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Integrating a sufficiently large green area (the largest in the capital) and a recreation park, Izmailovo is one of Moscow’s universal parks. It is capable of solving several tasks simultane-ously. First of all, it makes it possible for Muscovites and guests of the city to commune with nature. It also has everything necessary for outdoor ac-tivities, such as skiing resort, bike and roller rentals, booths for archery and crossbow shooting, and some sports fields in various stages of planning. For little ones, the park offers a playground, rides on miniature trains and horses; older children will be more interested in amusement rides. And lovers of the antiques will find here some architectural structures dating back to 17th-18th centuries, because this place is known as the historic patrimony of the Romanov ancestors, the Zakharyin-Yurskys, with the first wife of Ivan the Terrible, Anastasia Romanova Zakharyina-Yurskaya (Anastasia Romanova). The tsar gave this land to her brother, Nikita Ro-manovich. After the death of Ivan the

Terrible, at the beginning of the reign of Boris Godunov, the children of Nikita Romanovich went out of favor, as possible contenders to the throne.Only two of them were persecuted, Fedor Nikitich, who was forcibly ton-sured as a monk, with his wife becom-ing a nun in the same fashion (later he would become the patriarch, and his son, Mikhail Fedorovich, will be the first king of the Romanov dynasty), and Ivan Nikitich, who became the owner of Izmailovo.The end of the Time of Troubles

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enabled Ivan Nikitich to set up these lands and to expand them. His son, Nikita Ivanovich Romanov, continued his father’s work. Here, he established hunting, including a «wolf yard» which contained wild animals (wolves, foxes, bears) to train the dogs.By its nature, Nikita Ivanovich was a good-natured man, and everyone around seemed to like him. But he had a strange However, quite unu-sual for his time, he had a thing for everything foreign. His dress was of European taste, and his servants wore liveries, he read secular books and kept strange things in the house. And absolutely unprecedented was his easy boat - a small sailing vessel, his gift, or perhaps even a purchase, from Brit-ish merchants.Since Nikita Ivanovich was childless, after his death (during the reign of

Alexei Mikhailovich) all of his prop-erty passed to the Order of the Grand Palace.Speaking in contemporary terms, Alexei Mikhailovich created on this land an experimental farm, a nursery, where attempts were made to grow all that appreciated in Russia, but was brought from afar: grapes, watermel-ons, melons, cotton, almonds, pepper, etc. But the main value of Izmailovo was found out only by his son, Peter Alexeevich, or Peter I. He rediscovered the old boat and embarked on his first voyage. A ship named «Saint Nicholas» will be later called the «grandfather of the Russian Navy.» Maybe Peter inherited from Nikita Ivanovich not just the old “Botik” and Izmailovsky estates, but interest to European traditions as well?It does happen at times that

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a residence, flourishing under one monarch, is abandoned under another. Izmailovo, in its turn, was not spared this fate; generations have passed, times have changed, the capital was moved to St. Petersburg, and the royal family stopped living in this place for a long time. The last royalty living in Izmailovo was Anna Ivanovna who spent his childhood here, and after-wards, would return to this place only as the tsarina.Under Nicholas I, Izmailovo received a hospice for veterans, which was in existence until 1918. The following old buildings remained until our time: Bridge Tower (1671-1679) in the place where there was a bridge, Pokrovsky cathedral (1671-1679), Front and Rear Entry Gates (1679-1682), as well as iron gates and a fountain, plus some stone buildings from the Nicholae-

vskaya Izmailovskaya military hospice of the 19th century, etc.Presently, Izmailovo is a place for tak-ing walks and having good time, it is a modern, well-developed park capable of attracting children, young people and adults alike.

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Moscow parks and estatesLe

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Palace and park ensemble «Lefortovo»

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These areas did not belong to the royal estates, but still proved to be closely associated with the name of Peter I. In general, the Eastern part of Moscow retained many names reminiscent of him. For example, the Semenovskaya underground station and the Preobrazhenskoye district are tied in with the names of Semenovsky and Preobrazhensky Toy Regiments. By the way, there is a Poteshnaya (“Toy”) street as well, just as there is the street bearing the name of Sergei Leontyevich Bukhvostov, a palace serv-ant who was the first to volunteer as his young Majesty’s toy soldier. «The First Russian Soldier» participated in all the campaigns of Peter I and was promoted to officer rank. Nowadays, there is a monument commemorating him near the Preobrazhenskaya Plosh-shad underground station.Izmailovo district is all about child-hood of Peter I, and Lefortovo is reminiscent of his close associate, Franz Lefort, who lived here. The tsar was often visiting him at his home, surrounded by a large court, and this probably became one of the reasons for the decision to expand the house, adding a large hall, and thereupon, erecting a stone palace paid for from the country’s treasury. But the owner did not get to live in the new palace; shortly after the housewarming party, Franz Lefort died, and Peter I would move to this place by himself.Palaces in this part of the city would then be commissioned by and many noble people, representatives of the

royal court, and later, Peter’s suc-cessors, such as Anna Ioannovna, Catherine II, Paul I. Of course, the sur-rounding area, the Golovinsky garden, underwent development as well. In times of Anna Ioannovna, this place became known as the «Ver-sailles upon the Yauza River». Until now, some elements of the park hint

at the original plan.Several palaces survived until present times, including Lefortovsky, Slobod-skoy and Ekaterininsky. Presently, Golovinsky park is part of the Moscow Unified State Museum-Reserve, which also includes Kolomenskoye, Izmailovo, and Lublino.

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State historical, architectural, art and landscape museum-reserve «Tsaritsyno»

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Most of the royalty and nobility would inherit their land from previous gen-erations, from their ancestors, who, in turn, once very long ago earned them by distinguishing themselves in battles, or by proving their loyalty to the tsar and country. Therefore, of particular interest are those infrequent occasions when land would be chosen by the monarch himself, because this choice can tell a lot about the person making it, especially when it comes to such a vivid and extraordinary his-torical figure as Catherine II.According to historians, empress lived in Moscow for most of the 1775, spending some time in Kolomenskoye as well, and voicing quite a critical opinion about this estate.Indeed, when it comes to the fashion of her time, Kolomenskoye would be far remote from it. Thus, when, during one of her walks, Catherine found nearby an excellent piece of nature with highly unpoetic name of Chernaya Gryaz’ (“Black Dirt”), she decided to build there her own residence, making it a place fit for the quieen. What would attract Catherine to this place? She probably saw the conditions here were just right: a cascade of ponds, some meadows and forests where it was possible to arrange a park (while Kolomenskoye, in essence, was hardly more than just a garden and a veg-etable patch). Let us not forget that Catherine II was of European heritage, and aspired to comply with tastes of the enlightened Europe, measuring herself by those standards as well.

This is how she describes her pur-chase in a letter: «Imagine a riverside covered with a large forest, and her majesty with a lackey, crossing the creek on a ferry. In front of her lies a plain filled with bushes, where you would put the pheasant cells, a little pond terminating in a dam, shaded by tall weeping willows, and between, a view of an even bigger pond opens,

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with one bank, the steep one, covered with small villages scattered in there, and the other one, inconspic-uously sloping, offers to your viewing pleasure some fields, meadows, forests arranged in bouquets as well as single trees; to the left from the ferry, there is a muddy creek overgrown with forest that gradually rises like an amphi-theater. Well, just imagine all that, and you will be sure to come to Tsaritsyno, so unlike the Kolomen-skoye which no one wants to ever see again». Anyone who was there once, will, of course, recognize some familiar features in this description. It took just two weeks to erect light wooden buildings here, upon which Catherine would move in. The main construction work was entrusted to an outstand-ing architect V.I.Bazhenov, who, in ten years, from 1775 to 1785, would create in Tsaritsyno, as the Black Dirt was now called, a full-fledged palace complex. But Catherine did not like the palace, and to such an extent

that she ordered not just to over-haul, but to completely disassemble it. This, however, gives us reasons to presume that her main cause for displeasure would be not so much the palace itself, but rather its creator. Historians cite different reasons, which, by themselves or all together, could have led to the great architect falling out of favor. However it may have been, the punishment was harsh - V.I.Bazhenov was not just relieved from his duties for an entire year, but his own student, M.F.Kazakov, was commissioned to build a new palace, upon disassembling the old one. Still, the original draft provided by Kazakov also underwent several changes. The reason for this was lack of sufficient funding. Probably, Catherine had lost her interest in this place, because it took almost 20 years to build it - the palace, as a rough draft, was finished by Kazakov in 1794.The interior of the palace was left un-finished, for the Empress died in 1796,

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and the heir apparent, Paul I, did not continue to work on Tsaritsyno.The building quickly dilapidated, it became ancient without ever having been young. Some of his contemporar-ies were not thrilled. «The building of the existing palace, with its eight high towers, resembles some giant tomb standing on a hearse, surrounded by some giant monks, standing still with candles in their hands» – this is how a well-known explorer of the old Moscow, M.I. Pylyaev, would describe the structure. Now, since the palace is completed, you may choose to agree or disagree with him.Other buildings created by V.I. Bazhe-nov remained in the park, including several palaces, bridges and gates.We would like to make some special remarks about the nature in Tsaritsyno which Catherine was so enamored with. Truly, there are ponds, forests and glades, along with some steep slopes, presently adorned with stairs. And, since it seems to be no escaping

the comparison between Kolomenskoye and Tsaritsyno, so be it – the former is especially beautiful in spring when the apple orchards stay in full bloom, and the latter, in the fall, when all the forests appear glimmering with gold along the slopes, and every maple leaf is painted with its own unique pattern.State Historical, Architectural, Art and Landscape Museum-Reserve «Tsaritsyno» is very popular among Muscovites and city guests. This pic-turesque and romantic place was used as a “backstage” for many a character from the books of I.A. Bunin and I.S.Turgenev. Some movies were filmed here as well. For instance, at the beginning of the film adaptation of the “Woman in White” novel by Wilkie Collins, Tsaritsyno landscapes are eas-ily recognizable. Overall, the style of Russian Gothic (the Pseudogothic), is perceived as a romantic one, and this is why this place is usually brim-ming with wedding parties.

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Petrovsko-Razumovskaya alleya

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Leningradskiy prospekt

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Moskovskaya alleya

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ulitsa Verhnaya Maslovka

ulitsa Planernaya

Petrovsky park

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A small green area around Petrovsky traveling palace is only a part of the former park being located here. It appeared in the 19th century and occupied a much larger area, includ-ing the territory where currently the «Dynamo» stadium is located. Never-theless, our story shall begin from the palace.This is one of the most famous architectural structures in Moscow. Travel Palaces were needed to provide members of the royal family traveling from St. Petersburg to Moscow with opportunities to rest and prepare themselves for their ceremonial en-trance to Kremlin. 1775, in the same year Tsaritsyno was acquired, Cather-ine II ordered a travel palace to be built behind Tverskaya Zastava, on vacant lands owned by Vysoko-petrovsky monastery, commemorating the victory over the «Ottomans», as Turks were called at the time. Construction was entrusted to M.F.Kazakov, an outstanding archi-tect, and lasted 7 years. This original

building was built as a combination of Gothic and Turkish styles.Catherine would first come to it in 1787. Later, Paul I would arrive here before his coronation. A signifi-cant, albeit notorious, guest of this palace was Napoleon, who fled here from the burning Moscow.Here stands, surrounded by its grove,Petrovsky Palace, grim and proud Of recent glory that bestowed On it was by NapoleonWho waited, vainly, drunk with pride, That Moscow, kneeling, brings him keysFrom Kremlin on a silver platter; Alas! My Moscow refused And gave him not the feast, but roast;

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A sweeping fire, as parting present, And, lost in his unhappy thoughts, Napoleon would watch the glowOf burning city, ever proud,Foreboding even from the distance. In these words of Pushkin, some of the most dramatic pages of Russian history are depicted with an incred-ible precision.After the War of 1812, restoration of Moscow begins, leading to significant changes of the city; the Boulevard Ring was created, many neighborhoods have been restored adhering to the same architectural style, the spontaneously built, and now destroyed by the great fire, clus-ters of houses gave way to planned streets and prospects. No wonder

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A.S. Griboyedov, in words of one of the characters in his play «Woe from Wit», voiced his opinion about the restored Moscow, which later became a much-quoted line, in the phrase: «The fire would aid it in becoming suave”. Thus, in 1827, Petrovsky Palace was surrounded by a landscape park with alleys planned like rays arising from the palace; a pond was dug out, several dams created, etc. The new park was quickly becoming very popular, there was a summer theater, a building for concerts, a swing, several gazebos, billiard houses, baths and small restaurants. Presently, the area of the park has decreased significantly, but some of its territory remains untouched.

One of the surviving alleys is called Naryshkinskaya after the landlady A.D. Naryshkina who built the temple of the Annunciation in Petrovsky Park. Her sons, Dmitri Pavlovich and Constantin Pavlovich were acquainted with Alexandre Dumas the Pere. Dur-ing his visit to Moscow, Dumas was a guest at the country house belong-ing to D.P. Naryshkin which was lo-cated here, in the Petrovsky Park. Now this house, like many others around it, ceased to exist. Still, some inter-esting architectural objects remained here. Among tehm is the temple of the Annunciation in Petrovsky Park (blagpb.orthodoxy.ru), built in 1844-1847, and a villa of N.P.Ryabushinsky «Black Swan», built in 1908.

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Krylatsky hills

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NativityBlessed Virgin Mary

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Landscape Reserve Krylatsky Hills is a protected natural area of regional significance and part of the natural and historical park «Moskvoretsky.»To this territory formerly belonged the village of Krylatskoye, which was first mentioned in the will of Moscow Great Prince Vasily I in 1417. There are other more recent references that indicate that the village was under tutelage of the court. To make sure, however, its name sounds in different ways being taken from different sources: Krilat-skoe, Krylattskoe, and even Kryletskoe. This suggests that it was not derived from the word “krylo” («wing»), which is heard in modern pronunciation, but from the word “kryltso” («porch»); indeed, those high hills may be viewed as a porch for entry into Moscow.This place was known as the place

of royal hunts, and therefore, it was inhabited by many animals. Of course, you would hardly meet a bear in today’s Krylatskoye, but there are still some species of rare animals, including

such endangered species listed in the Red Book as the brown hare.A special attraction of Krylatskoe is the church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin. It was built in the 19th century, and the first church of this place was consecrated under Ivan the Terrible. A spring «Our Lady of Rudnenskoye» considered to have miracle-working properties is part of its territory, too. After the revolution, the land here was distributed to the peasants, and a collective farm was established. A new life began for Krylatskoye upon preparation for the Olympics in 1980. Almost all rural buildings were demol-ished, and in their place, sports facili-ties including rowing canal, indoor cycling track, bike trail, and others were built here.

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Estate

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Former suburban es-tates around MoscowIf you were to look at the modern map of Moscow, then everywhere around the Garden Ring and all the way to the Moscow Beltway you would notice several green “islands”. Those are, in many cases, former suburban estates near Moscow which once belonged to some noble families, with a rich historical past, and now have become parks and museums. All these suburban possessions were created with taste

and based on the latest architectural fashion of their times, and this is why they are called «the Pearls of Moscow». Presently, they are not just some carefully protected and restored historical monuments, but also places for rest and relaxation, romantic dates, photo shoots, family walks, and com-munications with nature.Overall, 64 architectural ensembles have survived in the capital until our time. Considering the significant, persistent interest of the capital’s residents and visitors to its cultural

Ostankino

Arkhangelskoye

Kuzminki

Kuskovo

Lublino

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heritage objects, the Moscow Govern-ment plans to expand access to them, as well as to complete the restoration work on 35 monuments of landscape architecture and gardening art.

Kuskovo and OstankinoThese two estates located virtually opposite each other around Moscow, have obnly one thing in common: from 1743 until the revolution, they belonged to the family of Sheremetev counts, whose name, thanks to the Sheremetyevo Airport, is well known to all Muscovites and city guests.But let us start with the background. In 1743, Varvara Alekseevna Cher-

kasskaya, the last representative of a noble family and heir to a huge (in the opinion of many, the largest in Russia) fortune, married Count Peter Borisovich Sheremetev. His father, Boris Petrovich Sheremetev, was the first to receive the title of Count introduced by Peter the Great I in Russia. Thus, considerable fortunes and lands became united. Cherkasskys owned Ostankino, as well as the land to the east of Moscow: Perovo, Vishnyaki, Vylon, Zhulebino ,and others. In short, nearly every-thing with an exception of a small «piece» (Russ. “kusochek”) owned by Count P.B.Sheremetev. That is why the

I.P.ArgunovPortrait of Count Peter B.

Sheremetyevo. 1760s.

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estate will be named Kuskovo.The couple lived in Kuskovo, as it was the family residence of P.B.Sheremetev, plus, Varvara Ale-kseevna grew up nearby, in Vishnyaki. Peter Borisovich has arranged his estate with extraordinary luxury. But it shall be noted that while he was building beautiful palaces on his land, collecting a gallery of portraits, arranging receptions of such magnitude which is difficult to imag-ine, entertaining royalty, each time surprising them with new extraordi-nary amusements, and sponsoring a theater, which, by skill of its actors, its decorations, sets and costumes

was equal to none if its kind at the time, while he was also being very involved in charity work, nothing reduced his wealth. On the contrary, proper management of the estate brings him considerable income. P.B.Sheremetev engaged in public affairs, and, upon his participation in the meeting of the committee drafting a new Codex (in 1767), he even expressed willingness to free his peasants from serfdom.The illness and death of his beloved wife Varvara Alekseevna after more than twenty years of happy marriage was a hard blow for P.B.Sheremetev and cause for his requests to Cather-

N.I.ArgunovPortrait Praskovia

Kovaleva-Zhemchugova. 1802

30


ine II of relinquishing him from all his state and military functions. After retiring from business, he continued to work on his estates.After the death of Peter Borisovich (he survived his wife by twenty years, but never remarried), their son, Nikolai Petrovich, has inherited a vast fortune. It was during his time that both estates near Moscow reached their full glory, and his name is always remembered whenever Kuskovo and Ostankino are mentioned.Nikolai Petrovich, just like his father, was interested in art and theater. His mastery of entertainment, including those fit for royalty, was by far not inferior to that of his father, and in some respects, he even surpassed him. The following case became known in history. Once, Emperor Paul I intended to visit Ostankino. To prepare for his arrival, a clearing was made in the forest that blocked the view of the palace, but the trees were not cut off completely, but only sawn halfway through the middle, with a man standing near each one of those trees. When Paul arrived, then, at a given signal, all trees sud-denly fell, revealing to the emperor a wonderful panorama of Ostankino.However, Nikolai Petrovich did not meet his fate on some ball thrown for high society, but in his own theat-er. Count Sheremetev fell passionately in loved with his serf theater actress, Praskovia Ivanovna Kovaleva-Zhem-chugova, who was distinguished not only by a beautiful voice and outer

beauty, but also by great spiritual qualities. Alas, these feelings were to remain secret, as historians write, for in those days, any lewd behavior would be treated more leniently than true feelings for just one and only woman, but with a lower societal status.Since Kuskovo was the place where all receptions and celebrations were held, the actress Zhemchugova was well known there, often becoming a target of gossip, and sometimes even ill-minded practical jokes from visitors. This greatly hurt Praskovia Ivanovna, who was already greatly inconvenienced by the situation in which she lived. Therefore, the Count decided to move with his beloved to Ostankino which was free from the old memories. The theater in Kuskovo closed, and construction of a new theater in Ostankino began.There is evidence that this estate was visited by the Emperor Paul I, to whom Count Sheremetev was a friend of childhood, and Praskovya Ivanovna greeted him there as the lady of the house. Metropolitan Platon also recognized Zhemchugova’s high moral qualities, and therefor gave his bless-ing for marriage of these two loving hearts.Overcoming all difficulties associ-ated with the huge difference in their position in the society, in 1801, the Count finally married his sweetheart. But their happiness lasted only two years; shortly after birth of their son Dmitry in 1803, Praskovya Ivanovna

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GUIDEBOOK

dies. Disconsolate widower, in memo-ry of his spouse, is finishing construc-tion of the Xenial House, the Hospital for the Poor in Moscow. However, the theaters are being closed, and the former world of great celebrations be-comes part of the past. Nikolai Petro-vich did not survive his wife by much, he died in 1809. His son Dmitry, who, at the time, was a six year old child, had trustees appointed to him, and, coming of age, in opinion of many contemporaries, suffered considerable monetary losses from their actions. The trustees partook from the incred-ible wealth of this family, writing off many of losses on the war of 1812, which indeed did not spare the once luxurious estates, either. We can only add that the Sheremetevs wealth still remained fairly large. The last owner of the land next to the Sheremetyevo international airport which gave it its name was Sergey Dmitrievich Sherem-

etev, the son of Dmitrii Nikolaevich and grandson of Nikolai Petrovich and Praskovia Ivanovna.It is interesting that each member of the family was closely associ-ated with the reigning emperor, Boris Petrovich was an associate of Peter I, participated in the Battle of Poltava, Peter Borisovich enjoyed the confidence and friendly disposition of Catherine II, and Nikolai Petrovich was a childhood friend of the future Emperor Paul I. Given this fact, Sher-emetevs did not use their position to benefit themselves, but, as quite an opposite, they engaged in char-ity. Their estates became a model of elegance and good taste. Many of the preserved buildings are the subject of admiration not only for experts on architecture, but also for ordinary visitors who come here to enjoy the atmosphere of the past carefully preserved in these locations.

32


State Museum of Ceramics and «Kuskovo 18th Century Estate»

ul i tsa 2-n d V l adi

mir

skay

a

u l . Unost

i

uli t

sa U

nost

i

Vishnyakovskaya ul .

u l . Malogo Gaya

ul . Malogo Gayaal leya Per voy Mayovk i

Rassvetnaya a l leya

ul. Unost

i

u l i tsa Moldagulovoy

ul. Sn

ayper

skay

a

Kuskovsk iy pr osek

3-r d Muzeynaya ul i tsa

Bolshoy Prud

33

GUIDEBOOK

This amazing place attracts romantics and dreamers, those who love balls and receptions, who like the elegance of the Enlightenment. This era of arts in full bloom has given us the oppor-tunity to admire the Kuskovo estate, so amazing in its beauty. A wonderful wooden palace, situated on the bank of the pond, survived in great condi-tion until our time. Erected in 1769-1775 under the guidance of the famous Moscow architect Karl Blank, it was the center of the estate’s architectural composition, designed primarily for re-ceptions. Its facade and interior design reflect the tastes of the 18th century. Many details immediately take us back in time: looking at ramps designed for coach entry, we seem to hear the sound of hoofs, rustling ball gowns and beautiful music greeting the ladies

34


and gentlemen. Some original interior elements have survived here, such as parquet, fireplaces, moldings, painting, wood carving, etc. Tableware, vases

and other items made of porcelain are on display in the Dutch house.Of course, the most important part of any estate is a park. Creating a regular park was already a work of great art, but more importantly, it had to be

maintained. That is why there is not a great number of parks survived until our time. Fortunately, Kuskovo park, with its geometrical layout, sculptures,

decorative vases and other items recreated in the 1980s, gives us the opportunity to get acquainted with a great example of the garden-park art.To provide the park guests with places for rest and relaxation, pavilions and

35

GUIDEBOOK

gazebos were usually built. Each of those structures could be considered an individual piece of architectural art, built in its own style.Pavilions of Kuskovo park included the Dutch house, the Italian house, the Hermitage, as well as the following gazebos: Stolbovaya or Doric Gallery and Pagodenburg (Chinese gazebo). Pavilions surviving until our time host various exhibits. We would also like to add a few words about the Grotto located on the bank of the pond, and, because of its unusual, graceful Baroque architecture, becoming a hall-mark of Kuskovo. Catherine II dined here during her visit to the estate.To grow warmth-loving plants in our climate, greenhouses were needed. Kuskovo had those, too. The plants were carefully kept in greenhouses until summer when they could adorn the alleys of the park. They were car-ried already potted, with their crowns cut in a variety of geometric shapes, ships, animals, etc. There are also other buildings, they all form a rare

preservation ensemble of 18th century building architecture in its various styles.Since 1919, the estate became a muse-

um, and in 1938, the only Russian Mu-seum of Ceramics was transferred here, which, to date, has one of the biggest collections of ceramics and glass from antiquity to the present day.

36


Ostankino

ul. 3-rd Novoostankinskaya

1-st Ostank insk ay ul i tsa

2-nd Ostank insk ay ul i tsa

Novomoskovskaya ul.

Novom

oskovskaya ul i tsa

1-st Ostank insk aya ul i tsa

Botanicheskaya ul i tsa

r iver K

amenka

Ostankinskyi Prud

Ul i tsa Ak ademik a Kor oleva Ul i tsa Ak ademik a Kor oleva

ul. Akademika Koroleva

ul. Kashenkin Lug

pr oezd Dubovoy r oschi

proezd Dubovoy r oschi

Arg

unov

skay

a ul

i tsa

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GUIDEBOOK

Ostankino estate belonged to Cher-kassky princes from about 1620. Sev-eral generations were caring for that place: a house was built, trees were planted, a pond was dug out. In 1677 – 1692, the church of Life-Bringing Trinity in Ostankino was built in stone here, which survived until our time. The architecture of this temple represents one of the most distinctive styles, the Russian uzorochye pattern.After Varvara Alekseevna and Pe-ter Borisovich settled in Kuskovo, Ostankino estate was used more for business purposes, although we can-not say that it became abandoned. On the contrary, the new owner gives instructions to arrange a park here, to build greenhouses and conservatories. However, Ostankino gets its second chance for life under Nicholai Petro-vich Sheremetev. Having moved here with Praskovya Ivanovna, he decides to build a palace-theater in «pure taste» here, worthy of fine qualities of his beloved.It is difficult to say nowadays if there was another palace, the construc-tion of which involved many famous architects. Among them were such professionals as architects Francesco Camporesi, Giacomo Quarenghi, Karl Blank, as well as Sheremetev’s talented serf masters A.Mironov, G.Dikushin and P.Argunov.It is also important to remember that Nikolai Petrovich was concerned not only about the architecture of the estate. Being open to new ideas of his

time, he incorporated them in his es-tate. This is how the English park and artificial ponds came to be here.Nowadays, most of the former Ostanki-no estates owned by Cherkasskys and Sheremetevs is given to the Main Bo-tanical Garden named after N.V.Tsitsin (see page), and the area where the architectural ensemble is located,

38


Natural and historical park Kuzminki

Kuzm

inskiy pru d

KUZMINKI

LUBLINO

Topolevaya alleya

Kuzm

insk

aya

alle

ya

KUZMINKI

LUBLINO

Volgogradsky prospekt

Volgogradsky prospekt

ul. Z

elen

odol

skay

a

ul. Yunikh Lenentsev

ul. Stavropolskaya

ul. Stavropolskaya

ul. Krasnodarskaya

ul. S

ovkh

ozna

ya

ul. Pererva

Stav

ropo

lsky

pro

sp.

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GUIDEBOOK

Kuzminskiy Forest Park is truly uni-versal: there are hidden nooks and crowded places, ponds and rivers, historical landmarks and a vast forest. This is a wonderful place to suit every taste, season and age.Closest to us part of Kuzminki history begins in 1702, when Prince Grigory Dmitrievich Stroganov became the owner of the mill located on the river, and of the surrounding areas as well. If you are interested to know it, the name of the most popular meat dish of Russian cuisine - Beef Stroganoff (from Fr. Bœuf Stroganoff - «Beef made by Stroganov art») – was given to honor the great-grandson of this very Stroganov. This is how the name of Stroganovs became entrenched in cookbooks all over the world.Stroganov family was undertaking the task of making this place inviting. During their time, a wooden church was built, dedicated to the Vlahern

icon of the Mother of God, and another large pond was added.In 1757, the granddaughter of Grigory Dmitrievich, Anna Alexandrovna, mar-ried Prince Mikhail Mikhailovich Golit-syn, and received this land as a dowry. Thus, for many years (up to 1917) Kuzminki becomes Golitsyn estate, with every new generation aspiring to decorate this wonderful place even more.During the time of Mikhail Mikhailovi-ch, for instance, cascade of four ponds appears here, which we can see even

40


now, and his son, Sergey Mikhailovich, expands the estate by acquiring adja-cent land.The lady of the estate was supposed to become the wife of Sergei Mikhailov-ich, Avdotya Ivanovna Golitzina (nee Izmailova). But the relationship be-tween husband and wife did not work out, and almost two years after the wedding, they would not stay together any more. Reputed to be one of the most asounding beauties of her time, according to the memoirs of contem-poraries, Avdotya Ivanovna fell in love with Mikhail Petrovich Dolgorukiy, aide-de-camp to the tsar Alexander I. Alas, they could not get married, for her husband refused to divorce her. In turn, he Grand Duchess Ekaterina Pav-lovna, the sister of Alexander I, was so enamored by Mikhail Petrovich that she considered it possible to enter into marriage with him. It is difficult to imagine how this situation would unfold, but in 1808, Dolgorukov was killed. Remaining true to her feeling,

Avdotya Ivanovna never remarried, but, being a woman of independent wealth and social ambition, she could not abstain from maintaining a social life. Thus, a literary salon would be conducted since 1816 at her home in St. Petersburg, frequented, among others, by A.S. Pushkin. Friends even joked about the young poet and his love to the Ms. Golitsyna.At this time, the estate of Sergei Mikhailovich Golitsyn also enjoys great popularity. To give a better idea about the estate’s social status, we would mention that its owner, since 1826, repeatedly entertained in Kuzminki several representatives of the royal dynasty, such as Empress Maria Feo-dorovna (wife of Paul I), and later her sons, the Grand Duke Mikhail Pavlovich and the Emperor Nicholas I. The son of Nicholas I, the Crown Prince Alexan-der II (who later became the Emperor Alexander II) and others were guests here as well.The beauty of the estate has been

41

GUIDEBOOK

preserved only in the descriptions left by contemporaries, and on vintage im-ages. After the death of the childless Sergei Mikhailovich Golitsyn in 1859, the estate passed to his relatives, who did not make any improvements to it, and then began to lease it for summer dachas.Very few remained until our times from the large number of buildings designed by the most famous architects. The house, built by Stroganovs and rebuilt by Golitsyns did not survive until the present time, being destroyed by fire in 1916. Therefore, the main architec-tural attraction is the temple dedi-cated to the Vlahern icon of Mother of God, built in the late 17th century, because after this temple, even the Kuzminki would be sometimes called Vlahernskoye.To aid you in getting an idea about the extent of the local construction, it will help to take a look at the preserved Stables on the banks of the Upper Pond, built in 1805 and remod-

eled in 1823 by the famous architect Domenico Gilardi. The name itself says about the purpose of this place: there were not only horse stables, but also warehouses for all kinds of necessities, as well as a «garage» where coaches were stored. Of great interest are the sculptures, which are analogous to those installed on the Anichkov Bridge in St. Petersburg (sculptor P.K. Klodt) cast at Golitsyn factories. By the way, their twins may still be seen in Berlin and Naples.Also, there was a hennery, a cattle yard, a greenhouse, an embankment with the ferry pier, pavilions, monu-ments, houses - over thirty objects in all. And even these technical buildings were built in the same vein, adding to the beauty of the general ensemble.Now, the following museums are opened here: Museum Center of K.G.Paustovsky, Museum of Russian Estate Culture, and Museum of Vintage Cars and Coaches hosted by the news-paper «Auto Review».

42


Arkhangelskoye

Moscow river

I l’in

skoe

sho

sse

43

GUIDEBOOK

During its history, this country estate outside Moscow changed many owners and experienced different times. But it became best known under ownership of Prince Nikolai Borisovich Yusupov, a representative of the wealthy family, who owned a vast fortune. Nikolai Bori-sovich became famous as a collector, a great lover and connoisseur of art. In the public service, he also served in an art-related capacity, taking positions of the chief superintendent of the Ar-mory and Expedition of Kremlin build-ings, director of the Imperial Theatres, director of the Hermitage, and others.He knew Pushkin, and Alexander Sergeevich even dedicated to Yusupov a poem called «To the Nobleman». At various times, this place was visited by other artists as well, for example, the famous artist A.N. Benois, K.A. Korovin, K. E. Makovsky, V. A.Serov.The name of the village Arkhangelskoye is similar to the city of Arkhangelsk, but in no way connected to it. It is so called because of the church of the Archangel Michael, built in the years 1660-1667 in place of a wooden one, and being the oldest building in the estate museum. This church «opens» the architectural complex of Arkhan-gelskoye, although the style of it is different.

The palace and park ensemble are impressive, their panorama comes im-mediately into view and captivates by its harmonious austere beauty. It was formed in 1780-1790, in ac-cordance with architectural trends of its time. Designed by French architect Charles de Guerne magnificent palace is supplemented by a wonderful park located on the terraces, housing other buildings as well, such as conservato-ry, residential wings, a small «Caprice» palace, and a riding hall.

Until the Revolution, the estate belonged to Yusupovs, later it was nationalized, and Yusupovs immi-grated. Since 1919, the palace hosts a museum, its collection includes paintings, antiques, pottery, earth-enware and porcelain, a collection of rare books, and many other authentic artifacts.After seeing the park and estate, be sure to walk down to the river to ap-preciate its view of the natural beauty which successfully complements the strict mathematical precision of the regular park.Recently, Arkhangelskoye became widely known for its annual Festival of Usadba- jazz, which is held here on the first weekend of the summer.

44


Lublino

LUBLINOLublinskiy prud

Egor’evskiy proezd

Kurs

kaya

ulit

sa

u l i tsa Tihaya

Stadium«Lokomotiv»

ulit

sa

Eysk

aya

Le tnaya ul .

ul i tsa Shkuleva

ul. Chistova

7-th ul i tsa Tekst i lshikov

ul i tsa Mal isheva

ul i tsa Ar tuhinoy

Lubl inskaya ul i tsa



Vol zghsk iy bulevar

u l i tsa Tihaya

ulit

sa P

olbi

na

u l . Kubansk aya

Prospekt 40 le t Ok tyabr ia

K ras

nodo

nska

ya u

l its

a

Taga

nrog

skay

a ul

i tsa

Taga

nrod

skay

a ul

i tsa

Spor t i vniy pr oezd

Kr asnodarskaya ul i tsaKr asnodarskaya ul .

Viso

tniy

pr o

ezd

Stavr opolskaya ul i tsaStavr opolskaya ul i tsa

45

GUIDEBOOK

Most of the territories on the outskirts of Moscow have a rich historical past. These lands have long been referred to in the documents, they are associated with several legends, they have natural and historical monuments. Lublino estate is no exception: first mentioned in the documents of the 14th century, belonged to famous families, contains attractions. The uniqueness of this estate is in a palace built in the years 1801-1806.The owner of the estate at the time was a Moscow landowner famous for its wealth, Nikolai Alekseevich Durasov, who, for the purpose of creating an estate ensemble, invited here the famous Moscow architects, R.R.Kazakov and I.V.Egotov. They created the palace which still surprises architecture lovers. The reason for this is the building has in its plan a combination of a cross and a circle. It is believed that this is how the Order of St. Anne of 1st degree which was awarded to Nikolai Alekseev-ich, was commemorated,.The interiors of the building also

impressed with their luxury. They were decorated with stucco reliefs, paintings imitating 3-D columns, bas-reliefs with ancient mythological subjects, and there was even an entire hall covered in marble. The combination of paintings, decorative items and el-egant furniture made this palace a real temple of art, just as its owner wanted.Other buildings of the estates, cre-ated in the style of mature classicism, remained only partially, just as the landscape park existing here before, with Lublinsky pond as part of it. Sadly, the splendor of the estate can now only be imagined. After the revolution of 1917, the main house and the whole estate changed owners several times, which led to the deterioration of its condition. Now, renovated in 2001-2005, the palace is part of the Moscow Unified Estate Museum. Exhibitions, classical music concerts, and lectures are conducted here. In this fashion, the palace may again play its part as the Temple of Fine Arts.

46


Parks

47

GUIDEBOOK

It is worth remembering that the green areas in Moscow mean not just some old estates, silence and solitude, but also modern parks, with attrac-tions, sports facilities, and entertain-ment. They are boisterous, fun and punctuated with constant peals of children’s laughter. The total area of parks and recreation is 1427 hectares!

Every year, they are visited by about 15.5 million people. In the sum-mer, all parks operate from 8.00 to 24.00 (with exception of Gorky Park which is open round the clock), with free admission. Currently, Moscow has 14 amusement parks which offer meaningful active entertainment to outdoor enthusiasts.

Sokolniki

Gorky park

Victory Park

Fili

48


Gorky park

PARKKULTURY

OKTYABRSKAYA

SHABOLOVSKAYA

LENINSKIYPROSPEKT

ul. O

stoz

hgen

ka

Prechstenskaya nabere

zghn

aya

ul. B

olsh

aya

Yaki

man

ka

Luzghnetkaya estakada

Zubovskiy bulevar

Krimskiy Val

ul. Lva Tolstogo

Komsomolskiy

pro

spekt

Leninskiy

pro

spekt

3-rd Transportnoe koltsoLeninskiy prospekt

ul . Serpuhovskiy Val

ul itsa Kosigina

Leninskiy p

rospekt M

itnaya ul .

Frun

zens

kaya

nab

erez

ghna

ya

Bolshaya Pirogovskaya ul itsa

ul itsa Prechistenka

49

GUIDEBOOK

The nickname of the Central Park of Culture and Recreation named after M. Gorky is well known in our country and even in the world. During its his-tory, since its inception in 1928, Gorky Park went through different times. At some point, it was the hallmark of Soviet prosperity, happy childhood and cultural activities, with its main entrance, designed in a parade and exaggeratingly happy style (archi-tect V.A.Shchuko), rides for children, exhibition halls, a fountain and flower gardens. Visiting Gorky Park was a mandatory part of the tourist program of all guests of the capital.Beginning in the 90s of the last cen-tury, changing economic and political system necessitated changes for the park as well. Paid entry was introduced for the first time, and various summer cafes offering shashliks and similar fast-food appeared as if from nowhere, and the old rides, so beloved in the past, were abandoned. Nevertheless, the park continued to attracts tourists, but it lost its “magic touch”.The goal of restoring Gorky Park in its status of the best, most vivid and memorable park of the country was far from simple, but presently, it is accomplished. In 2011, it underwent a large-scale reconstruction, which helped to maintain and develop the old traditions, while allowing it to become an international level recrea-tion area.Perhaps the most important thing to know about the revived Gorky Park is

that you may visit it round the clock, and for free. And once inside, you will have no problem finding an entertain-ment to suit your taste. Even a simple list of some features offered to guests of this park shall leave no one indiffer-ent. It has bike rental and a seven-seater velo taxi, 50 places for table tennis, tennis and badminton courts, a skating rink, boat stations with water bike and catamaran rental on Pionersky and Golitsynsky ponds. A music fountain with color-changing water is located here as well. For children, there is an art station, animators and aqua-makeup artists, as well as the largest sandbox of the entire Moscow. If you like to read and relax while enjoying nature, it offers deck chairs and ottomans, and for those who just cannot live without the Internet, there is free Wi-Fi. Also, there is the «Olive Beach» for 500 people, free fitness classes, dance, yoga and Qigong. There is all this, and much, much more. Do not forget that the park hosts various spectacu-lar, cultural, sports and recreational activities, concerts, theatrical perform-ances, festivities and festivals. There is an open-air cinema and a consider-able green area. After all, what we perceive as Gorky Park, is just one part of it, the ground floor, so to say; with another one being also well known as Neskuchniy garden (more on page.) Officially, this whole area, amounting to 190.7 hectares, is one of cultural establishments of Moscow Gorky Park.

50


Sokolniki

SOKOLNIKI

KRASNOSELSKAYA

ulitsa Sokolnicheskiy Val

3-rd Transportnoe koltso

Bogo

rods

koe s

hoss

e

Rusa

kovs

kaya

nab

erez

gh

naya

Rusa

kovska

ya u

litsa

Naberezhnaya Gannushkina

2-nd Luchevoy pr osek

1-st Luchevoy pr osek

3-rd Luchevoy pr osek

5-th Luchevoy pr osek

4 -th Luchevoy pr osek

6-th

Luc

hevo

y pr

osek

Maysk

iy p

r ose

k

Pesochnaya a l .

TropaZdorovia

ul i tsa Kosmonav tov

Rostok insk iy pr oezd

ul. Bor isa Galushk ina

ul. P

avla

Kor

chag

ina

ul. K

onst

ant i

nova

Egerskiyprud

BolshoyOleniy

prud

Putyaevskiyprud

ul i tsa Str ominka

ul. Lobanchika ul. Malenkovskaya u l i tsa Gastel lo

ul i tsa Barbol ina

ul i tsa 2-nd Boevskaya

ul. Bol .

Ostr o

umovskaya

ul. Mat

r oss

kaya

Tis

hina

ul i tsa Korolenko

ul i tsa Zghebrunova

r iver Yauza

51

GUIDEBOOK

In the Russian name of this neigh-borhood and park, the word “sokol” («falcon») is noticeable. Indeed, in the XV century, this is where the grand princes’, and later, tsar’s falcon hunt would take place, with Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich was especially fond of. Public festivals were held here as well. In the time of Peter I, even a special clearing called Maiskiy was made here for this purpose amidst the trees, and it is still in existence in our time. Already in 1879, the city becomes owner of this land. That is why there are no old buildings here, but instead, a very special atmosphere.Modern recreation park «Sokolniki» was created in 1931. His territory is part of cultural heritage, and a monument of landscape architecture of regional importance. In addition, a part of the land here has the status of a specially protected natural area. The park seems to adjust to every visitor, offering a variety of pastimes most enticing for him.Sokolniki’s greatest pride and joy are small areas of pristine nature, for the national park Losiny Ostrov (“Elk Island”) is located nearby (more on page 68). Walking here can be a real treat for those who love the forest but cannot get out of the city. Perhaps you are familiar with the wonderful picture of an outstanding Russian artist, I.I.Levitan, called «Autumn day. Sokolniki». There is a path strewn with golden autumn leaves and leading you away, a bench inviting you to sit down and daydream a bit

while perusing autumn flames of maple trees. And this is how Sokolniki park remains today.Guests of the park are just as fascinated by its rose and lilac gardens. The Large and the Small Rose Gardens are not just some flower beds or shrubs. This is a place of amazing beauty, where you can find true peace of mind. Comfortable benches under fragrant shrubs resemble scenery for some romantic film from the beginning of last century. You can have a date here, take pictures, or just enjoy the marvelous scent extending even beyond the flower bed.Another «trade mark» of Sokolniki is dance. On the «Rotunda» dancing stage you can see aged couples whirling in a waltz to the music of their youth. There are also disco parties and dance eve-nings for the younger crowd. Of course, children are not left behind, either. For them, there are rides as well as play-grounds, including some special ones for children with disabilities. There is also the Innopark containing interac-tive science exhibits. Traditionally, in winter months, Sokolniki showcases a freshly built Ice Town, and since 2011, there is a museum of ice.Do not forget about the Exhibition and Convention Centre Sokolniki, which hosts exhibits, conferences, concerts, sporting events, etc. Sporting tradition is strong in the park as well: here, you can rent sports equipment, the park provides specifically outfitted areas for different kinds of sports, and there are extreme zones, where you can try some rather unusual sports.

52


Moskva-River

Rublevskoye shosse

ul. Bolshaya Filevskaya

ul. Malaya Filevskaya

ul. Novozavodskaya

KUNTSEVSKAYA

PIONERSKAYA

The «Fili» park

!

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This title, above of all, we associate with the famous military council at Fili, which took place not far from here during the Great Patriotic War of 1812. At one time, this area was outside the city limits, but in the 20s of the twentieth century, Moscow expands, including more and more suburban villages, including Fili and Kuntsevo, which give their names to the new districts of Moscow. But not the entire territory of former villages was covered with houses and criss-crossed by roads covered with asphalt. Unspoilt wildlife oases continue to delight us with the opportunity to walk among the greenery, to think in the quiet park, or to exercise. One of these wonderful places is the Fili-Kuntsevo forest park, which includes Filevsky and Suvorovsky parks. Located on the banks of the Moskwa River, they preserve for us the rich flora and fauna. Ancient trees, an old apple orchard, and a wide variety of animals and birds help you to take your mind off the eternal hustle and bustle of the city.

These places have a rich history, as evidenced by archaeological finds. Here is the so-called «Cursed Place» – the Kuntsevskoye mound. It was considered cursed because of some strange unexplained finds here which our ancestors, lacking sufficient knowl-edge, attributed to the action of evil spirits.Understandably, habitats of ancient people, as a rule, do not survive, but if for some reasons they do, remain-ing intact, and just lurking under successive cultural layers, then, being accidentally discovered, those finds inevitably contribute to the birth of the most incredible legends. Alledegd-ly, in the Golosovoy )”Voice”) ravine of Kolomenskoye, a unit of Mongol and Tatar army would mysteriously reappear from the mist several hundred years since the last battle was won, and in Kuntsevo, an entire church seemed to once be swallowed by the ground, but until our time, its bells are sometimes heard tolling… For his-torians, these amazing tales may serve

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as a source of information about the nature of the finds inspiring similar stories. This, combined with thorough research, somewhat raises the veil of the past and makes it possible to learn a bit more about the development of civilization.Thus, it is known about Kuntsevo mound that a fortified settlement was once located here. This place was in-habited about two and a half thousand years ago, i.e., during the 5th to 4th century BC. Subsequent inhabitants of these places also left their mark here, now found as bits of pottery, bone artwork, and agricultural tools.During the period of history a bit closer to our time, this land was owned by Naryshkins, with the first owner of the estate being Lev Kirillo-vich Naryshkin, the brother

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of Natalia Naryshkina, who was moth-er of Peter I, that is, the uncle of this famous tzar. Naryshkins were owners of the estate until 1865. At this time, the estate was frequented by Russian and foreign royalty, such as Catherine II, the Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III, Alexander II and Empress Maria Feodorovna. However, the upkeep of this estate was not bringing prof-its, because its owners lived in St. Petersburg; this is why it was sold to a merchant named K.T.Soldatenkov. Peasants spoke with great respect of the new owner who would not just keep the estate in order, but also allow them to use the forest. In addition, K.T.Soldatenkov cared about educa-tion of common people; he remained in contact with many of the leading figures of his time, and had a large

collection of paintings which he later donated to the museum. Nowadays, these works are exhibited in the Tretyakov Gallery and the Russian Museum.This place was, at different times, visited by the historian N.M. Ka-ramzin, poet M.Y. Lermontov, artists I.N.Kramskoy, A.K.Savrasov, V.V.Pukirev, M.AVrubel; writers L.N. Tolstoy, A.I. Herzen, composer P.I.Tchaikovsky, and many other promi-nent people.Now the park hosts a historical and ethnographic center «City of Masters» with the Museum-estate of Lobanov-Rostovsky Princes. Those are modern buildings which help children and all interested adults to begin studying the history of ancient crafts, culture and life.

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Victory park

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We do not need to explain what does the Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945 mean for all Russian people. This war is a huge tragedy that left an indelible mark in the memory of all our people, and this victory is the most significant event, result-ing from heroism and bravery of our citizens. That is why so many names in our country and in Moscow, too, are as-sociated with this event. Names of war heroes and generals adorn our streets, squares and avenues. Over thirty cities in Russia and the former Soviet Union have Victory Parks, and one of those is located in Moscow.Although the idea of creating such park emerged already during the war, and its implementation begun in the 50s of the last century, the grand opening of the memorial took place only half a century after the great victory, in 1995.Everything here is full of symbolism, bearing witness to those events. For example, there are 1,418 fountains on the main avenue: one for each day of the war; the height of the main obelisk called the Victory Monument is also 141.8 meters.The park hosts an exhibition of military equipment from World War II, with more than 300 pieces of equip-ment and engineering structures which once were used in active combat.The main historical and cultural site of the complex on Poklonnaya Hill is the Central Museum of the Great Patriotic War. It was founded in 1986 and contains one of the main and most valuable relics: the Banner of

Victory hoisted April 30, 1945 over the Reichstag in Berlin. Visitors are duly impressed by six large dioramas representing the major battles of the war. Among the fifty thousand objects exhibited in the museum are weapons, equipment, uniforms, awards, photo-graphs, documents, books, posters, and works of fine art.Also, Poklonnaya Hill became the place where temples of different faiths were built, including a Russian orthodox church, the temple of St. George, a memorial mosque and a memorial synagogue.We would also like to mention that choosing the location for the park and the memorial was no accident. Earlier, Poklonnaya Hill was located outside the city limits, so merchants and travelers alike would take their last look at Moscow from here. Each of them felt obliged to bow to the gold of its churches – hence the name of it, the Bowing Hill.Here, at the entrance to Moscow, its dearest guests were also met and greeted with a bow. Knowing this fact, Napoleon, upon entering Moscow, was expecting to see here a delegation of boyars offering him keys to the city. Alas, to no avail. The symbolic connection between the two liberation wars, both of which ended with the victory of Russian arms, was the reason for choosing the Poklonnaya Hill as the site for a beauti-ful park, the Victory Park, designed to remind us of how important it is to appreciate the peaceful sky above us.

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Gardens

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Of course, Moscow parks are called gardens purely out of convention, but, for some reason, this name stuck with a few green areas. At the same time, Moscow has some parks where you can actually find fruit-bearing trees. But let us not deviate from the historical tradition, since we meant to tell you about the city’s most famous gardens, and even its one vegetable patch.

1 The Main Botanical Garden of Russian Acad-emy of Sciences named after N.V. Tsitsin Creating botanical gardens in Russia and, more specifically, in Moscow, has a long history. Since ancient times, people wondered about possibili-ties for cultivating certain types of medicinal plants, as well as attempt-ing to harden up some of the plants accustomed to warmer climates. It is known that in the royal estates, such as Izmailovo and Kolomenskoye, at the reign of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich, in the 17th century, attempts to breed various plant species were already made. Over time, these attempts did not only cease, but expanded, as evidenced by the large number of botanical gardens in the country and around the world. Moscow’s pride and joy is the Main Botanical Garden of RAS named after N.V. Tsitsin. Its total area is 361 hectares, and among its live exhibits are an arboretum, an oak tree for-est reserve, a continuous flowering garden, a Japanese garden, a coastal

plant garden, greenhouses, etc. Here you can see the vegetation represent-ing virtually all climatic zones of all Earth continents.The Botanical Garden is named after its first director, Academician N.V.Tsitsin, who has been working here for 35 years since its inception on April 14, 1945. However, the history of this place begins much earlier. In the bygone time, here were the hunting grounds of Cherkassky princes; even Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great, loved to come here for a good hunt.In 1743, the land went into Sher-emetev possession (Princess Varvara Alekseevna Cherkasskaya married Count Peter Borissovich Sheremetev). Their son, Count Nikolai Sheremetev, who was patron of the theater known for his charity work, continued improve-ment of these places. This is how the English Park and five artificial ponds fed with water from Kamenka river,

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a tributary of Yauza, were added. Ostankino estate, which included these grounds as well, flourished, albeit shortly. The fate of N.P.Sheremetev may be followed on page , being part of the story about Ostankino estate. After the death of Count in 1809, the estate was neglected, and soon, it became almost deserted. Its new life began only in the 20th century, when a botanical garden appeared here.Usually, green areas within city borders diminish with time, being cut down for residential development and other human needs, and this is why there is virtually no more historic forest left today. Yet we managed to preserve at least some of its frag-ments, and now we can take a walk in Erdenevskaya grove, which is part of the Ostankino oak tree forest, and in Leonov forest as well.From the scientific point of view, the main objectives of the botanical

garden are maintenance of the plant species diversity, study of their proper-ties, and development of methods to cultivate them. And from the practical point of view, the Botanical Garden is a wonderful place to rest, go on a date, or take children for a walk. With-out making trips to distant countries, anyone can come here to see what the most exotic plants look like, and to get acquainted with a wide variety of flora from our entire planet.In the area where the garden is adja-cent to the Exhibition Center, you can get visit six botanical and geographi-cal exhibits, namely, «the European part of Russia», «Caucasus», «Central Asia», «Siberia», «Far East» and «Useful Plants of the Natural Flora.» Cultivated plants are represented in ten exhibits. Visitors will be interested to learn about the origin and evolu-tion of some crops, about how over the years, through diligent efforts of many people introducing them into cultivation, these crops finally began to yield abundant harvests. Nearby, you will be able to view the wild «relatives» of our cultivated plants. But the secret to success lies not just in good material selected for planting; proper techniques for soil cultivation and plant care are just as important. You can learn about this in the exhibit as well.The relatively new - established in 1994 - «Heather Garden» exhibit showcases several types of heather, erica, rhododendrons, conifers, and ornamental shrubs. Lest we forget the

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rose garden which offers the visi-tors the hardiest, most valuable and beautiful varieties of these wonderful flowers. Guests are usually captivated by the Japanese garden. Its landscape composition shows a genuine corner from the Land of the Rising Sun.The Botanical Garden provides an opportunity for everyone not just to enjoy a stroll among unique plants, but to «partake» from its abundance. Traditionally, in the fall you can buy here plant seeds and saplings for your garden or vegetable patch, as well as other planting material.

2 Neskuchnyi (Non-Boring Garden) Even the name of the Neskuchnyi (Non-Boring ) Garden fills you with pleasant anticipation. Indeed, if you manage to come here, you will never regret taking a walk in this wonderful place. Unlike many parks in Moscow which are formed on the basis of territory belonging to the same owner, this garden is com-posed of land from three estates, all of which belonged to different people in different times. We will tell you only about a few of them.Prokofiy Akinfievich Demidov (1710-1786) was the largest owner of the mining industry, and a millionaire. Many of those who have been to the Tretyakov Gallery are familiar with his portrait created by the famous painter, D.G. Levitsky. Very unusual and attention-drawing is the depiction of this very affluent man leaning on a garden watering can. You will probably

agree: this is not a typical prop for a portrait. However, for contemporaries of P.A.Demidov, there was no mystery in it. The reason behind it was that in his estate, here, on the banks of the Mos-cow River, Prokofy Akinfievich created an amazingly diverse botanical garden. About two thousand different species of flora from all over the world grew there. It is known that even pineapples ripened in Demidov greenhouses! How-ever, it is also known that Demidov was so vigilant of his creation that he had special chalk-covered gardeners stand-ing around the garden like statues for overseeing visitors. As soon as anyone would stoop to pick up a rare plant, the sculpture would «come to life». On the other hand, it very well may be just a legend, for it is a known fact that Demidov always allowed nature lovers and plant scientists to botanize in his garden. He is also known for his charity work, in particular, for his generous donations to the Imperial Orphanage,

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an institution where foundlings, street children and orphans were brought up and educated.The next owner of this place, Count Alexei Grigorievich Orlov (1737-1807), is known as a military leader and a man of state, an associate of Catherine II. Historians have written volumes about the participation of Alexei and his brother Gregory (a favorite of Catherine II) Orlovs in the coup that led this empress to the throne, but many details are contradictory and complex. But it is known that for a victory in the battle over Chesma in 1770 he received the right to be called Orlov-Cesmensky. Fame was also bestowed upon Alexey Grigorievich by his famous breed of horses, the Orlov trotter. The Count, although delighting in being honored and dignified, was, according to historians, the sweetheart of Moscow, for he was approachable, welcoming, friendly, and way led the Russian style of life. It was also said that he had an

extraordinary physical strength: he bent horseshoes and tied knots on pokers. All these qualities, along with his military achievements attracted to him the people from all levels of society. For his only daughter, he was arrang-ing holidays and feasts in this estate. The “Open-air Theater” of Count Orlov was also established here, as a covered gallery, arranged so that the trees and bushes replaced the on stage scenery.

The palace building, first belonging to P.A.Demidov, and later to A.G.Orlov, survived to this day. This architectural monument of 18th century now hosts the Russian Academy of Sciences.Next to this estate lie family mansions of Trubetskoy-Shakhovskoy, and of Golitsyn.Historians have not yet agreed on whose estate was called Neskuchnoe (“Non-Boring”) exactly, but upon pur-chasing and integrating all those lands by Nicholas I, the name Neskuchny gar-

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den somehow became the nickname of the entire territory. Nicholas I present-ed this magnificent park to his wife, the Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, but since the main life of the royal society was in St. Petersburg, this place rarely enjoyed royal visits. At all other times, the garden offered free entry to all citizens who have used it with pleasure, taking their weekend walks in the park.Currently Neskuchny garden is part of the Central Park of Culture and Leisure named after M. Gorky, but still it is a very special place retaining its charm and personality. Some ancient buildings as well as the architectural landmarks of the Soviet period have survived here until present days. Among them are the Summer House, the Manege building built in A.G.Orlov times, The Hunting House, the backdrop for famous «What? Where? When?” program, the sculpture “Swimmer with Waterfall”, the Rotunda Gazebo commemorating the 800th an-

niversary of Moscow, etc.The park has a library, a children’s equestrian school, Mineralogical Museum named after A.G. Fersman. For sports fans, there are courts for tennis and table tennis places.

And, of course, nature is wonderful here: a real forest with about 60 varie-ties of trees, endangered plants, and rare species of birds. Experts say that Neskuchny Garden is one of the best nightingale places in the capital.

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3 Apothecary Vegetable Patch As photographic equipment became ever more accessible and its use wide-spread, it became a true fad of Moscow to visit the Apothecary Vegetable Patch, or the Botanical Garden of Moscow State University named after Lomonosov. The popularity of this site is explained primarily by its convenient location near the center of the city and, if it may be put so, by a high concentration of a variety of plants in a small area. Each season, it is filled with camera-laden people who attempt to capture the beauty and diversity of nature in this place in lying, standing, sitting, squatting and even jumping. The romantic air of this place is appreci-ated by young people in love as well. Why give a girl a bouquet of flowers that will wither tomorrow, if you can offer her beds upon beds of unique plants, creating long-lasting memories. Parents with children come here as well: babies are brought here simply to admire the plants and to enjoy the fresh air, school children can get acquainted with plants they study in biology classes. People hurrying past often take a moment from their busy schedules to come here for even half an hour, «recharging» from the energy of nature.Apothecary Vegetable Patch is the old-est surviving botanical garden, it was founded by Peter I, and “apothecary” meant that it had plants cultivated to make herbal remedies, and to let medi-cal students study botany. From 1805 until the present time, it is managed by the Moscow State University named after Lomonosov.

4 The «Hermitage» GardenFor theater-goers of Moscow and other cities, this name is very familiar, because there are three theaters work-ing in this garden at the present time, namely, the «New Opera», «Sphere» and «Hermitage». Still, those who have come here as a guest of Melpomene, cannot ignore the fact that the garden itself is a real work of landscape art.It is known that each park of Moscow has its own history which not only tells us about a particular place, but about habits, lifestyles and characters of Muscovites during a certain histori-cal period. The end of the 19th century became a time of universal enthusiasm for theater. This art began to play ever more important role in everyday life, and playwrights, actors, and directors were now viewed differently as before. Gradually, cinematography was starting to claim its rights as well.

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In 1894, garden «New Hermitage»was created in the center of Moscow. The name of its founder, a famous theater personality, Y.V.Shchukin, is well known to theater aficionados. Born into a peasant family, Jakov Vassilievich was educated as an assistant doctor, but found his true calling in business, creating coffee shops and restaurants that brought him considerable income, and was even accepted into guildchip of second degree as a merchant.Further activities of Y.V.Shchukin are already associated with the theater; upon managing entertainment events in Petrovsky Park, he decides to create his own theater, soon becoming known as a theatrical impresario, organizing tours of Russian and foreign artists.

The next step was the creation of the theater and a summer garden in 1894, inaugurated with much publicity in 1895.This place is famous for many im-portant events in the cultural life of the capital. For example, on May 26, 1896, the first public session of cinema Lumière in Moscow was offered here. On October 26, 1898, Moscow Art Theater with Common Access was opened in the «Hermitage» theater, under the direction of K.S. Stanislavsky and V.I. Nemirovich-Danchenko. On its stage premiered such plays of A.P. Chekhov as «The Seagull» and «Uncle Vanya» (a building on Kamergersky Lane was built later). Here made his debut as conduc-tor of the Russian Private Opera the famous Russian musician and composer S.V. Rachmaninoff. The announcements were showing names of F.I. Shaliapin,

L.V.Sobinov, A.V.Nezhdanova, Sarah Bernhardt, Anna Pavlova ...The First World War and all the revolutionary transformations did not contribute to the development of fine arts, but from the middle of the 20s of the last century, the garden was newly filled with theatrical life. Throughout the century, all stars of the stage would come to perform here: A.I.Raykin, duo R.Kartsev - V.Ilchenko, K.I. Shulzhenko, L.I.Ruslanova, Orchestra conducted by L.O.Utesov, and many others . The «Mir-ror» Theater hosted the first game of the «What? Where? When?» club.Currently, in addition to the theater work, the garden hosts a variety of events, festivals, fairs, and shows «In the World of Flowers.» Soon, in 2014, the garden will celebrate 120 years since its foundation, but years become it, making it a modern, fashionable and of course, cozy recreational area.

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A story about Moscow parks would not be complete without mentioning the Zoo. Children and adults alike come here to look at the animals inhabiting different parts of the world. Observ-ing the fauna in all its diversity, and realizing what amazing creatures share the world with us, is wonderful and incomparable experience.Moscow Zoo, at first known as the Garden of Zoology, was opened in 1864 by the Russian Imperial Society for Acclimatization of Plants and Animals, and, for its time, it was a unique institution. Initially, the Garden of Zoology contained about 200 wild animals belonging to 80 species, and more than 100 domes-tic ones. The domestic fauna was represented best, but visitors also had an opportunity for getting acquainted with some animals uncharacteristic for our latitude, such as lions, jaguars, rhinos, parrots, and even an alligator.Especially attractive for the guests was the opportunity to buy high-quality representative breeds of domestic animals and birds, and to get useful advice.Purchases of various animals and equipment for expeditions organ-ized to obtain some animals required large investments, and this is why the Moscow Garden of Zoology was patron-ized by the Russian nobility. Their contributions allowed building special

pavilions for the acclimatization of animals and plants.After the revolution, the Garden of Zoology, now called the Zoo, has been passed to the state, and its educational and excursion work continued. Over time, the territory has been expanded, with new premises added, the animals have been moved from their cages into larger habitats, and the number of Zoo inhabitants, naturally, increased. Present-day reconstructions allow the zoo to comply with all modern requirements. The number of animals has increased significantly over the years. Presently, it hosts about 8000 animals of more than a thousand species. This is why the Moscow Zoo currently ranks 6th in the world in terms of the size of its collection. Each year, the Zoo attracts more than 3 million people.Guided tours of the Zoo providing an insight into the world of animals for better understanding of their char-acters and traits are always avail-able. You can also simply observe or photograph the animals as well, but most importantly, do not forget about the rules of conduct. If you are visit-ing the Zoo with children, regardless of this being your first visit or not, do not forget to remind them that the Zoo is a potentially dangerous place where instructions must be strictly adhered to. The children must also

Zoo

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ask your permission before undertaking any action there.The main rule is: any and all at-tempts to sneak behind the fence are completely prohibited. Appearance of animals is often misleading, and no matter how cute an animal may seem, it does not tolerate intrusion onto its territory, and, therefore, can attack. Do not put the children on top of the barrier if some of the animals are not visible, better wait a bit. Constantly remind your children that it is not allowed to stick your hand through the barrier, to touch the animals, etc. All of this is very dangerous. Even domes-tic animals are sometimes unpredict-able, to say nothing about the wild.Monitor your children constantly: the Zoo has some off-limit areas, and sometimes they may be undergo-ing renovations, with construction work being done; so watch out that the children avoid entering areas that are not intended for visitors. Always keep the child in sight, for the Zoo is a dangerous place, and it must be clear to all adults and kids alike.

And, of course, do not tease the animals, trying to get their attention, do not annoy them. That is why it is prohibited to make noise in the Zoo, play loud music there, or bring your pets to it.Another rule that must be observed strictly: no animals at the Zoo are to be fed with anything. It is life-threat-ening for them! Each animal has its own balanced diet developed by a veterinarian, and any violation of diet can lead to illness and death of the Zoo inhabitant. Remember that most of the animals kept in the Zoo are not accustomed to our climate and, consequently, to our food. Explain it to children as well; often they are well-meaning, and just want to share their own sweets with the animal they find especially adorable.If you follow these basic rules, the trip to the Zoo will become a real treat. No wonder there Muscovites who spend almost every weekend there. After all, when watching the animals, sometimes we just may learn something new about ourselves.

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Usually, the word “reserve” evokes an image of a huge forest. And this is why it is so hard to believe in protected nature areas which are located within the boundaries of such a large city as Moscow. Of course, most of these objects are not the official reserves per se, but all of them have a special status. In there, you can see some rare species of plants, birds and animals, as well as unique natural landscapes. But most importantly, here you can enjoy taking a leisurely and fun walk. However, it is very important not to harm nature there, not to disturb the harmony and integrity of these places. Please note that such places often have nature trails in form of specially created routes accompanied by explanatory signs. You can also be assisted by a guide.

Natural and historical park «Moskvoretsky» includes a number of natural areas: Stroginskaya floodplain, Serebryanyi Bor Forestry, Serebryanyi Bor (“Silver Wood”), Krylatskaya floodplain (with Karamyshevskaya embankment), Sportivnyj Park, Mnevnikovskaya floodplain, Krylatsky Hills, Fili-Kuntsevskiy Forest Park (consisting of Filiovsky and Suvorovsky parks). We have already spoken about some of these sites, and the rest of them you can discover by yourself. Consider the forest located on an artificial island called Serebryanyi Bor. It has the only one nature trail in Moscow going across a reed swamp.This park offers possibilities for outdoor activities, picnics, and for vacationing with children. It has a boat rental station as well as electric cars moving along predefined pathways. Bathing is permitted on the beaches of Serebryanyi Bor, which is really unusual for Moscow.The Losinyj Ostrov (“Elk Island”) National Park is a specially protected area of federal significance. It has everything necessary for recreation and eco-tourism, including an infrastructure which provides easy visitor access to all park features, such as road and route network, benches, awnings, signs, children’s playgrounds. It is planned to develop a recreational water eco-route along the Yauza river.

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The Vorobievy Gory (“Sparrow Hills”) Nature Reserve is an interesting location offering much more than just the breathtaking view of Moscow from its famous observation deck. It also provides a great opportunity to convene with nature. There are three nature trails with guided tours that allow children and adults to learn a lot about the flora and fauna of their home country.

The Bitsa forest Natural and Historical Park is especially attractive through its landscape: streams, rivers, ravines, gullies. It boasts several types of wood, an exhibit of rare plant species, as well as aviaries with squirrels and pheasants. Bitsa forest is a wildlife area with a rich history tracing back to ancient times.

Moskvoretsky

Losinyj Ostrov

Bitsa

Vorobievy Gory

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State Museum-Reserve «Kolomenskoye»Phone: 8 (495) 232-61-90Moscow, Prospekt Andropova, 39www.mgomz.ruThe park is open around the clockThe exhibition is open from Sunday to Friday from 10.00 to 18.00, Saturday from 10.00 to 19.00, day off - Monday

Route, the inputs.

Izmailovo ParkPhone: 8 (499) 165-12-36Moscow, the town named. Bauman, 2, Building 14.www.mgomz.ruThe park is open around the clockExhibition is open daily from 10.00 to 18.00, day off - Monday

Parking, transit, inputs.

Palace and Park Ensemble «Lefortovo»Phone: 8 (499) 261-70-20Moscow, Krasnokazarmennaya St., 1www.mgomz.ruThe park is open around the clockExhibition is open daily from 10.00 to 18.00, day off - Monday

State Historical, Architectural, Art and Landscape Museum-Reserve«Tsaritsyno»Phone: 8 (495) 321-63-66Located between the streets Vozdush-naya, Bazhenova, Lipetskaya and Shipilovsky travel along the coastTsaritsyn ponds.www.tsaritsyno.net/ru/Time: 6.00 to 24.00


Peter ParkMoscow, Leningradsky Prospect, 40The park is open around the clock

Krylatsky HillsMoscow subway station «Krylatskoe», «Molodezhnaya», 10-15 minutes walk, located along Krylatskie hills.The park is open around the clock

«Kuskovo XVIII century»Phone: 8 (495) 375-31-31Moscow, Ulitsa Yunosti St., 2www.kuskovo.ruTime: Wednesday-Sunday from 10.00 to 18.00, days off - Monday, Tuesday

Route, the inputs.

Information

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Museum-Estate «Ostankino»Phone: 8 (495) 683-46-45Moscow, 1st Ostankinskaya St., 5www.ostankino-museum.ru/ru/Time: Weekdays (Wednesday to Sunday) can only registered group.On weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from 12.00 to 17.00 excursion groups are formed from single visitors. The park is open until 20.00.Ticket sales to 19.00


Natural and historical park «Kuzminki»Phone: 8 (495) 258-45-60Moscow, Kuzminskaya St., 10www.kuzpark.ruThe park is open around the clock

Museum Estate «Arkhangelskoe»Phone: 8 (495) 363-13-75Located in the north-west of Moscow - in the Krasnogorsk district, the fifth kilometer highway Ilyinskoewww.arhangelskoe.suThe park is open daily from 10.00 to 21.00 (admission until 20.30) on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays10.30 to 18.00 (admission until 17.30)

Manor LublinoPhone: 8 (495) 350-15-53Moscow, Letniya St., 1/1www.mgomz.ruThe territory is open around the clock

Route, the inputs.

Gorky ParkPhone: 8 (499) 237-07-07Moscow, Krimskiy Val St., 9www.park-gorkogo.comThe park is open around the clock

Sokolniki ParkPhone: 8 (499) 268-60-11Moscow, Sokolnicheskiy Val St., 1/1www.park.sokolniki.comOpen daily from 08:00 to 23:00

Park «Fili»Phone: 8 (499) 146-05-31.Moscow, Bolshaya Filyovskaya St., 32/3www.park-fili.ruWorking hours: from 10.00 to 18.00

Victory ParkPhone: 8 (499) 142-4911Moscow, Poklonnaya Gora St., Bratiev Fonchenko St., 11www.poklonnayagora.ruHours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10.00 to 19.00.Thursday from 10.00 to 20.00Day off – Monday, Last Thursday of each month - day.

Parking, transit, inputs museum.

Product information can change. Please specify on the phone.

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Botanical Garden of Academy of Sciences TsitsinPhone: 8 (495) 977-91-45Moscow, Botanicheskaya Ulitsa, 31www.gbsad.ruHours: daily from 10.00 to 18.00, except Thursday and Monday

Neskuchniy gardenPhone: 8 (499) 237-07-07Moscow, Leninsky Prospect, 30www.park-gorkogo.comOpen hours: open around the clock

Pharmaceutical GardenPhone: 8 (495) 680-67-65Moscow, Prospekt Mira, 26/1www.hortus.ruHours: daily seven days a week from 10.00 to 20.00. In April, the garden

is closed for 2-3 weeksGarden «Hermitage»Phone: 8 (495) 699-04-32Moscow, Karetny Ryad St., 3www.mosgorsad.ruOpening hours: Monday 14.00-23.00, Tuesday - Friday 12.00-23.00, Saturday - Sunday from 10.00-23.00

Moscow ZooPhone: 8 (499) 252-35-80Moscow, Bolshaya Gruzinskaya St., 1www.moscowzoo.ruZoo is open daily, except Mondays in summer: from 10.00 to 20.00, in winter from 10.00 to 17.00

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