Alexandrovsky Park is part of the vast museum-reserve Tsarskoye Selo. Previously, this place served the royal family for walks and hunting, and now the park is open to everyone.

History of Alexandrovsky Park

The territory where the park is now located was formerly called Sarskaya Myza and belonged to a Swedish magnate. Later, it was renamed Tsarskoye Selo. In the 1730s, the area was separated from the forest and a royal menagerie was established, where hares, moose, and wild boars were kept for imperial hunting. Gradually, the territory was improved, artificial water bodies were created, and the Monbijou pavilion was built, which translates from French as "my treasure." In the 1740s, the New Garden, the Arsenal pavilion, and Mount Parnassus were added.

In the early 19th century, the menagerie, which was no longer used for its intended purpose, was abolished, and a landscape park was created in its place. With the advent of Soviet power, the palace and park complex was nationalized and became a museum. During the war, it was occupied by German troops, and many buildings were destroyed and looted. After the war, reconstruction began, and now Alexandrovsky Park in Pushkin is a reserve open for visits, attracting many people with its beauty.

Description of Alexandrovsky Park

Alexandrovsky Park covers 200 hectares and is divided into the main park and the Upper Garden. The main entrance is located at the Catherine Palace.

Chinese Bridge of Alexandrovsky Park

Behind the entrance gates is a wide bridge made of pink granite with four pedestals. The bridge is decorated with granite vases connected by branches stylized as red coral. The Great Chinese Bridge was built in the late 18th century under the guidance of Charles Cameron. The sculptures of Chinese figures on the bridge were replaced in 2011 during restoration.

Great Caprice of Alexandrovsky Park

The embankment with an arched span received the name "Great Caprice" due to the high cost of construction. Catherine II insisted on its construction despite the doubts of the workers.

Small Caprice of Alexandrovsky Park

The Small Caprice was built simultaneously with the Great and represents a smaller earthen arch located 300-400 meters from the Great Caprice.

Cross Bridge of Alexandrovsky Park

The bridge over the Cross Canal was built in 1779 and looks monumental. Its base consists of two intersecting semi-arches, and at the top is a pavilion styled as a Chinese gazebo.

White Tower of Alexandrovsky Park

The pavilion styled as a castle was built in the 1820s for the children of Nicholas I for training and studying military affairs. During the war, the tower was partially destroyed, and restoration began in the 1990s. It is now used as a museum center.

Grigori Rasputin's Grave in Alexandrovsky Park

Rasputin's grave is located in a remote part of the park. According to legend, he was buried in a chapel near an unfinished church. In 2003, a wooden cross was installed at the burial site.

Children's House of Alexandrovsky Park

The blue pavilion was built in 1830 for the children of Nicholas I. During the war, it was looted and partially destroyed. It is now closed to visitors.

Mount Parnassus of Alexandrovsky Park

The mountain appeared in the 1750s during the construction of the Cross Canal. It was planned to build a gazebo on top, but this was not realized.

Horse Cemetery and Retired Stables of Alexandrovsky Park

The stables were built during the reign of Nicholas I, with the project managed by A. Menelas. The horses of the imperial guard spent their last days here. The horse cemetery has been restored, and the gravestones have been returned to their places.

Alexandrovsky Palace of Alexandrovsky Park

The palace was built in 1796 at the request of Catherine II by architect Kvarengi. For a long time, it was the residence of Nicholas II. After the revolution, it became a museum of the Romanov dynasty.

Farm Complex of Alexandrovsky Park

The imperial farm was established in 1828. Products were supplied to the imperial court, and excess was sold. Now only the caretaker's house and the cow shed remain.

Grotto-Spring of Alexandrovsky Park

The grotto is located above the source of a stream that flows into the Lamsky pond. It is made of unprocessed stone. The water from the spring is not suitable for drinking.

Lama Pavilion of Alexandrovsky Park

The pavilion was built in the 1820s to house llamas gifted to Alexander I. Restoration of the pavilion began in 2017.

Flower Clock of Alexandrovsky Park

The flower clock, a gift from Geneva for the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg, resembles a flowerbed in Geneva.

Dragon Bridge of Alexandrovsky Park

The bridge is decorated with dragon figures on granite pedestals, reflecting the imperial family's fascination with Asian culture.

Other Attractions of Alexandrovsky Park

Be sure to check out the Arsenal pavilion, built in 1834, with its collection of weapons. The Krasnoselskiye Gates, known as the Elephant Gates, with brick guardhouses are also interesting.

Visitor Information for Alexandrovsky Park

The park is open for visits, and entry is free. It operates from 7 AM to 10 PM in summer and from 10 AM to 6 PM in winter. Tours are charged separately.

How to Get to Alexandrovsky Park?

You can reach the park by buses 382 and 372 from Vitebsky Station or the Moskovskaya metro station, by minibuses from the Kupchino station, by taxi, or by personal transport. There is paid parking nearby. Alexandrovsky Park is a great place for walks.