The northern capital is deservedly considered the mecca of tourism in Russia. Everyone who visits our country considers it their duty to check out against the backdrop of the monumental Aurora, wander along the corridors of the Hermitage, take a walk along the many channels of the Neva and, of course, admire the construction of bridges. Many want to see St. Petersburg. Krestovsky Island is a special place where a fairy tale comes to life.
Enchanting places
It’s clear that you can’t do without a standard program, but will a clear adherence to the beaten track make you feel the spirit of St. Petersburg? If you decide to discover previously unexplored places in the city, be sure to check out Krestovsky Island (St. Petersburg). Attractions in this place will appeal not only to children, but also to adults.
You can wander around the island for a very long time. Tourists prefer to spend all day here, and locals love to just walk around the park area with their children.
Who called the island?
Unfortunately, reliable evidence has not been preserved to answer the question of why the island received such a name. But there are several versions, each of which in one way or another can be considered true:
- The island was named after the river Krestovka flowing nearby.
- According to one legend, a chapel once stood on the island, but with time it collapsed. There was only a cross that was found during construction.
- There is a small lake on the island, shaped like a cross.
The city of St. Petersburg holds many secrets. Krestovsky Island is also an interesting place that they like to talk about.
Rich story
The first information about one of the Kirov Islands appeared in the sixteenth century, and initially it belonged to A.D. Menshikov himself, but then Natalya Alekseevna, the sister of Peter the Great, became its owner. Historical sources report that then the territory was donated on behalf of Empress Elizaveta Petrovna to the Razumovsky brothers, who built their famous estate there.
It was then that on Krestovsky Island the first entertainment facilities appeared. The owners build German and Russian taverns, a cable car, ennoble hunting grounds and open a yacht club. Also, the Razumovsky build a system of suspension bridges, thereby establishing communication with the neighboring islands - Kamenny, Elagin, Petrovsky and Aptekarsky. So began the development of Krestovsky Island (St. Petersburg). Attractions, the prices of which are very attractive, like people regardless of age.
In the nineteenth century, thanks to the new owner, Prince Beloselsky-Belozersky, Krestovsky Island turned into a sports center with a park complex, but, unfortunately, due to excessive swampiness, it never gained popularity among the upper class.
Why is it worth the ride?
Now Krestovsky Island attracts tourists not only with its architectural heritage, inherited by Petersburgers from eminent owners, but also with a good selection of modern entertainment. On the island you can have a great time:
- In Primorsky Victory Park, founded in honor of lifting the blockade from the city. According to the memoirs of the poetess Anna Akhmatova, when the long-awaited news was announced, people themselves went to this place to plant a tree there as a sign of joy. So this magnificent garden arose, and in it anyone will feel the happiness that the townspeople experienced many years ago. Such places are famous for the cultural capital of our country - St. Petersburg. Krestovsky Island fell in love with locals for its wonderful parks.
- In the amusement park "Divo", opened in 2003. Numerous attractions await tourists there, which will test their nerves for strength. The park operates throughout the year, in the summer 50 attractions, including water rides, operate on its territory. Guests can ride catamarans, Water Disco, arrange a water safari for their family. In the cold, traditional ice slides, a skating rink open there, New Year festivities for adults and children are held. Divo Park is the largest and most well-equipped entertainment complex in the city. For this, children love Krestovsky Island (St. Petersburg). Rides, the prices of which are quite reasonable, cause a lot of emotions.
- In the dolphinarium, where any small guest or resident of St. Petersburg would definitely want to visit. Trained dolphins from the Black Sea perform there, delighting the audience with incredible tricks and endless friendliness and artistry. There you can even swim with them and take memorable selfies. Be sure to visit the whole family Krestovsky Island (St. Petersburg)! Prices for rides start at 50 rubles.
- At the stadium. Kirov. Once the Olympic Games were held at it, but in 2005 the old building was demolished. Now a modern stadium flaunting all standards flaunts at this place. There you can arrange family or friendly kart races, go rollerblading and just go for a walk.
