“A little slice of Italy in St Petersburg” whispered a woman to her companion. That’s exactly what the Kolonistsky Park is.
The Kolonistsky Park is a unique landscape park in Peterhof. Its creation began in 1837. The architect AI Stackenschneider and landscape designer PI Erler were responsible. A large pond dominates the park. This pond features islands adding to the park’s charm.
Empress Alexandra Feodorovna dreamt of Italy. Ill health prevented her visit. Her husband Emperor Nicholas I created a miniature Italy for her in Peterhof. Trees cleverly hide the city. They act as living curtains.
In 1844 a pavilion was built on Tsarina’s Island. Its style is reminiscent of ancient Roman houses. These houses were discovered in Pompeii. Four years later another pavilion appeared on Olga’s Island. This was a wedding gift from Nicholas I to his daughter. The Olga pavilion resembles Sicilian villas. This reflects where the couple’s marriage plans were finalized.
Both pavilions contained Italian masterpieces. The Tsarina’s pavilion dining room boasts genuine mosaics. These mosaics are from Pompeii dating back to the 1st century AD. Cozy gardens and Italian sculptures surrounded the buildings.
Travel to the islands was by water. Ferries and gondolas were the modes of transport. The Imperial family loved these tranquil islands. They hosted breakfasts celebrations and royal guests.
After the revolution the Tsarina’s pavilion became a museum. It closed in 1933. The exhibits moved to the Grand Peterhof Palace. Nazi occupation during WWII caused damage. The pavilion survived though. Unfortunately the furniture stored at the Grand Peterhof Palace burned down.
Olga’s pavilion suffered more. Sculptures were removed after 1917. The pavilion was abandoned. WWII destroyed it. It lay in ruins for almost 60 years.
Restoration of both pavilions concluded in 2005. Architects Sevastyanov EP and Toropov LA worked on Olga’s pavilion. Leontyev AG restored the Tsarina’s pavilion. Today two bridges connect the islands. Gondolas and ferries are long gone. The Kolonistsky Park however remains a beautiful place.
The park’s name comes from a German colony. This colony settled nearby in 1833.
The park’s pond and canals are part of the fountains’ water system. Waterfowl inhabit the park. You can see them even in winter. Birdwatchers can spot interesting species during migration. The Kolonistsky Park truly is a hidden gem. It is a unique blend of history nature and beauty. It offers a peaceful escape within the vibrant city of St Petersburg.