Exploring the Fragrant Beauty of Lilac in Moscow: A Guide to Scenic Locations
As spring unfurls its colours across Moscow, the city becomes a haven for those seeking the sweet aroma of lilac. From parks to gardens, there are several spots where one can bask in the scent of this flower.
Lilac Garden on Shchelkovskoye Highway is a prime destination for lilac enthusiasts. This garden boasts an impressive collection of lilac varieties. Its founder, the outstanding self-taught breeder Leonid Kolesnikov, developed about 300 varieties of lilac. Of these, around 50 have survived to this day. Many of the breeder's varieties became popular not only in the Soviet Union but also abroad. For example, in the park of Buckingham Palace in London, there grows a lilac variety called 'Galina Ulanova'.
Sokolniki park, with its sprawling greenery and tranquil pathways, is another hotspot for lilac admirers. Sokolniki’s Lilac Garden was founded in 1958, abandoned in the 1990s, and reopened after restoration in 2011.
Gorky Park, a beloved recreational hub in Moscow, also features lilac displays. Near the park administration building, there is a lilac garden with varieties bred by Leonid Kolesnikov.
For those seeking a quieter lilac experience, the open spaces of tKhodynskoye Pole offer a serene setting to savour the delicate fragrance of lilac.
The lilac garden in the Bauman Garden is located in the south part of the venue.
In addition to these well-known locations, students at HSE University can revel in the fragrance of lilac near the campus at Pokrovsky boulevard, 11. As they commute to classes, they can delight in the sight of lilac blossoms, adding a touch of natural beauty to their daily routine.