Exploring the Lush Greenery of St. Petersburg's Main Parks

The Botanical Garden of Peter the Great

A Living Museum of Flora

Established in 1714 by Peter the Great, the Botanical Garden of the V.L. Komarov Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences stands as one of the oldest and largest botanical gardens in Russia. Originally focused on medicinal herbs, it has since expanded to include a vast collection of exotic plants from around the globe. The garden serves as a crucial center for botanical research, with scientists actively participating in expeditions to enrich their collections.

What to See and Do

• Diverse Plant Life: The garden boasts a variety of plant zones, from native Russian flora to tropical and subtropical species housed in extensive greenhouses.
• Unique Species: Among its treasures are giant water-lilies that can support up to 60 kilograms on their leaves.
• Night Tours: The garden offers exclusive night tours in May to view the blooming of the rare Queen of the Night flower.

The garden faced significant challenges during the Second World War, with many specimens destroyed or damaged. Remarkably, despite severe food shortages during the Siege of Leningrad, none of the garden's plants or seeds were harmed by the city's residents.

Location and Contact: Professora Popova 2, St Petersburg, +7 812 234 17 64Opening Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Letniy Sad (Summer Garden)

A Royal Legacy

Founded by Peter the Great in 1704, the Summer Garden is St. Petersburg's oldest park. Designed with a strict geometric layout and adorned with numerous statues and fountains, the garden mirrors the formal style of Western European royal gardens.

Highlights of the Summer Garden

• Marble Statues: Originally adorned with hundreds of marble statues, today, visitors see replicas, with the originals preserved indoors.
• Historic Fountains: The garden's fountains, which depict scenes from Aesop’s fables, are among Russia’s oldest.
• Architectural Marvels: The Summer Palace and other historic buildings offer a glimpse into the era of Peter the Great.

The garden not only serves as a cultural hub for events but also as a symbol of the city, celebrated in the poetry of Anna Akhmatova and others.

Location: Kutuzov Embankment 2, St PetersburgOpening Hours: May-Oct: Mon-Sun, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Nov-Mar: Mon-Sun, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Mikhailovskiy Sad

A Cultural Crossroad

Adjacent to key landmarks like the Mikhailovsky Castle and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, Mikhailovskiy Garden is a central piece of St. Petersburg’s cultural landscape. Established in the early 18th century, the garden has undergone numerous redesigns, offering a labyrinth of paths and a serene pond.

Location: Kanal Griboedova, St PetersburgOpening Hours: May-Sep: Mon-Sun, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Oct-Mar: Mon-Sun, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Moskovsky Victory Park

A Tribute to Heroes

Unlike the centrally located parks, Moskovsky Victory Park lies in the city's Moskovsky district and was established in 1946 to commemorate the victory over Nazi Germany. Covering nearly 1 sq. km, the park is a patriotic symbol featuring the Avenue of Heroes, celebrating Soviet heroes of World War II.

Activities and Attractions

• Recreational Facilities: The park includes amusement rides, sports courts, and a skating rink, making it a popular spot for family outings.
• Historical Monuments: It houses a chapel and a memorial at the site of a former wartime crematory.

Location: Kuznetsovskaya ul. 25, St Petersburg, +7 812 388 0881Opening Times: 24 hours, daily

St. Petersburg's parks are not just areas of natural beauty but are deeply intertwined with the city's history and cultural identity. Each park offers a unique glimpse into the past and present of this majestic city, making them essential stops for any visitor.