Maxim Gorky Park (Central Children's Park) is one of the oldest parks in Minsk, located in the city center. It covers an area of 28 hectares and combines natural beauty with various entertainment options. The park is famous for its 54-meter Ferris wheel, picturesque alleys, attractions for both children and adults, and is one of the coziest and most beautiful places for recreation in the capital. This place will appeal to nature lovers as well as those looking for family-friendly entertainment. The park also features unique monuments, cafes, and active recreation areas, making it popular with locals and tourists alike. Its central location and rich history attract many people who wish to enjoy tranquility or spend time with children.
History of the Park
The park's history began in 1805 when the first governor of Minsk, Zachary Korneeva, initiated the creation of the "Governor's Garden." It was the first public park in Belarus, covering an area of about 18 hectares. Cozy alleys, artificial canals, and recreation zones appeared here.The Park in the 19th Century: Sports and Entertainment
By the end of the 19th century, the park had become a favorite place of relaxation for the residents of Minsk. A summer theater, cycling track, ice rink, and tennis and croquet courts were opened. Mass celebrations, gymnastics sessions, and children's events were held in the park. Active recreation enthusiasts could rent bicycles and ride along scenic paths. The park's atmosphere combined elements of cultural and sports leisure, making it a center of attraction for different segments of society.The Revolution: Renaming and Updates
After the 1917 revolution, the park was renamed "Profintern." In 1936, it was renamed in honor of Maxim Gorky, a common practice in the Soviet era, where many parks and cultural sites were named after famous writers and public figures. This period was marked by active ideological work, and the park became an important part of the city's cultural life, reflecting the values of Soviet society through its architecture and mass events.Restoration After the War
During the Great Patriotic War, the park suffered significant damage, but it was restored after the victory. The reconstruction project was developed by architect Ivan Rudenko. New attractions, a summer cinema, and a planetarium were created. Special attention was given to children's areas, making the park even more popular among families. In the post-war years, the park became a symbol of revival and renewal, attracting city dwellers not only for relaxation but also for cultural leisure.The Park Today: History and Modernity
In 1960, the park officially became the Central Children's Park named after Maxim Gorky. According to a new project by architects L. Usova, V. Varaksin, and V. Geraschenko, the park's alleys were reconstructed, pavilions were built, and modern attractions were added. The Svisloch River received a new embankment with a pedestrian bridge. An educational planetarium, observatory, and weather station were built on an elevation. Trees, shrubs, and flowers were planted, and a sports pavilion with a complex of playgrounds appeared near the stadium. Today, the park is a unique combination of historical heritage and modern conveniences, preserving the atmosphere of old Minsk while offering current entertainment options for the new generation of city dwellers and tourists.Nature and Infrastructure
Today, the park is home to more than 60 species of trees and shrubs, including rare specimens such as cedar pine, Weymouth pine, California fir, and silver maple. Some of the decorative linden and maple trees are over a hundred years old. The park's spacious green zones are perfect for walks, and its shady alleys provide secluded spots for relaxation at any time of year. Among the greenery, one can encounter many squirrels, and on the water, ducks that can often be fed while enjoying nature in the heart of the city. These features make the park not only a recreation center but also an example of a sustainable and comfortable urban environment. The park is famous for its attractions, including the 54-meter "Ferris Wheel," which offers breathtaking views of Minsk. There are attractions for both children and adults: trampolines, a "Fear Room," carousels, a ride-on train, and boats for rowing on the Svisloch River. This is a place where everyone can find entertainment to suit their taste, from those who enjoy peaceful walks to those seeking adrenaline. The park's territory is well-maintained — paths are paved with tiles, retro-style lamps are installed, and benches and bins are available. The park is designated as a tobacco-free zone, contributing to cleanliness and comfort for all visitors.Attractions and Entertainment
Maxim Gorky Park offers a variety of entertainment for the whole family:- Ferris Wheel — 54 meters high, this is one of the main attractions of the park. From the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Minsk. One full rotation of the wheel takes about 9 minutes. For safety, closed cabins are provided for children under 12.
- Attractions — for thrill-seekers, there are the "Waltz," "Wild Train," and Enterprise with intense rotations.
- Shooting Gallery — for shooting enthusiasts, there is a specialized shooting range with various targets where you can test your accuracy and have fun.
- Children's Entertainment — young visitors can ride electric cars and carousels, jump on trampolines, or take a boat ride on the Svisloch River.
- The park also has a planetarium with modern equipment, where you can view the starry sky through an opto-mechanical device.
