“Why is it called Egersky Pond?” a curious visitor asks. It’s a question that unveils a slice of Moscow’s past. The Egersky Pond, located in eastern Moscow, has a story etched in its waters.
The Egersky Pond got its name from the settlement of the Imperial huntsmen. They lived here in the 17th century. Imagine the area bustling with activity. These huntsmen served the Tsar.
This artificial pond has an oval shape. It covers 1.5 hectares. The average depth is two meters. Its dimensions are about 180 meters long and up to 100 meters wide. The Egersky Pond is fed by surface water and the city water supply. Its banks are reinforced with concrete slabs.
Once, the area around Egersky Pond was a wild park. It served as hunting grounds. Even Empress Catherine II visited the pond. Legend says a love story unfolded here. A huntsman and a maid of honor fell in love. Catherine, touched by their affection, gave her blessing. However, she set a condition. The huntsman had to either serve the Empress or marry. He chose service. Heartbroken, he later drowned himself in the Egersky Pond.
In 2008 and 2009, the Egersky Pond underwent significant improvements. Workers cleaned it of debris. They reinforced the bottom. They also created pedestrian paths. The area around the Egersky Pond was landscaped. A decorative island with a fountain was installed in the center. In summer, you can admire flowering water lilies.
The Egersky Pond is located southeast of Sokolniki Park. Today, Egersky Pond is a place for recreation. It invites locals and tourists alike. Take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of Egersky Pond. Remember the tales it holds. It is a blend of history, nature, and perhaps a touch of romance.