Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a central park named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky. It encompasses an amazing area in the very center of Moscow, it is highly visited and we can say that it is adored by the people of Moscow.
The park, which was first opened in 1928, was done according to the design of architect Konstantin Melnikov. It spreads over an area of 220 hectares, and visitors can enjoy numerous gardens, lagoons, areas dedicated to sport and recreation, museums and restaurants. This is definitely not an ordinary park.
In 2011, major renovations were carried out due to the damage that the park had sustained over the years, which saw the demolition of around 100 attractions and illegally built constructions. These objects were replaced by 2 hectares of grassland and asphalt tracks for visitors to walk along. Abandoned buildings were cleared, monuments were restored, including the statue of Maxim Gorky. In a few months of intense work, the park was transformed into the central park that a capital such as Moscow truly deserves. The park also has an ice rink that covers an area of 150m2, with designated areas for children, adults, hockey, as well as dance.
The Gorky park is divided into four areas.
- The Muzeon – a free-access open museum with several hundred Soviet sculptures which were removed from parks and squares throughout Russia, the most notable of which is the statue of Peter the Great. The monument is 98 meters tall, made out of bronze, steel and copper. It was completed in 1997 to celebrate the 300th birthday of the Russian navy, as well as the 850th anniversary of the establishment of the city of Moscow.
- The Parterre – the main part of the park, opened in 1928, this portion of the complex was first opened at an agricultural fair that was organized in the area after the Russian Revolution.
- Neskuchny Garden – Situated at the center of the park, this is the most notable area of the park that is home to monuments that you must visit.
- Vorobyovy Gory – This beautiful natural reservation is located on a hill, just next to the Moskva river, and it provides visitors with one of the best views of the city.
The walk along the park from beginning to end, along the Moskva river, can last up to a few hours. You can also rent a bicycle to enjoy your visit.
Entrance to the park is FREE OF CHARGE.
Bear in mind that the park has 26 entrances, so you can choose what you would like to see in advance because you can spend days inside the park.
There are 25 restaurants inside the park that serve coffee, tea, as well as food. You can also take a boat ride along the Moskva river, which is an experience in its own right.
