Park them. 1st of May

The oldest park in Kursk, May 1st Park (Park Imeni 1 Maya), is a true green oasis located in the very heart of the city. As a specially protected natural area in Russia, the park covers 14 hectares and sits directly adjacent to Red Square (Krasnaya Ploshchad), making it one of the most accessible and significant landmarks in the region.

May 1st Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This park is a harmonious blend of historical heritage and natural beauty. For over a century and a half, it has remained a center of social life in Kursk, Russia. Elements of the old landscape have been preserved here, standing alongside modern monuments and well-maintained walking paths.

The park's main symbols are the Monument to Alexander Nevsky, erected in 2000, and the memorial to the hero pilot Andrey Borovykh. Its cozy atmosphere, shaded alleys, and panoramic views of the Streletskaya Sloboda district make this a must-visit destination for lovers of history and leisurely walks.

For the latest information on events or visiting inquiries, you can contact the administration. The park is a municipal site, and its staff ensures order and comfort for visitors throughout the year. Below are the primary contact details for communication and navigation.

In May 1st Park, every visitor will find something to enjoy. The primary pleasure here is strolling through the shaded alleys, where century-old trees provide a refreshing escape even on a hot afternoon. Be sure to reach the edge of the park, which offers inspiring panoramic views of the Tuskar River floodplain, water meadows, and distant forests.

For those interested in culture and history, the focus should be on the monuments. By exploring the Monument to Alexander Nevsky and other commemorative markers, you can learn more about the city's history and the notable figures whose lives were connected to this region. It is a wonderful spot for quiet contemplation and a thoughtful encounter with the past.

The park grounds are perfect for family leisure and photography: there are many picturesque corners that serve as a beautiful backdrop for pictures. During the warmer months, the open spaces are ideal for a short break to enjoy the fresh air away from the city noise, while still remaining in the center of the action.

Getting to the park is incredibly easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at 1 Krasnaya Ploshchad. Key landmarks for tourists include the regional administration building and the majestic Znamensky Cathedral, both located in the immediate vicinity.

You can use any public transport (buses, trolleybuses, or fixed-route taxis) passing through the center. Look for the "Krasnaya Ploshchad" or "Ulitsa Sonina" stops. If you are staying in the central part of the city, the walk to the park will take no more than 5–10 minutes.

For those who prefer comfort, a taxi ride from central hotels will be quick and inexpensive. Travelers arriving by private car are advised to look for parking spaces on adjacent streets such as Gogol, Radishchev, or Dimitrov, as parking directly on the square may be restricted.

The history of this site began in 1868 when a city square was established on the site of a former marketplace that locals colloquially referred to as the "manure square." Within a year, shaded alleys and gazebos were built, and a military band began performing in the evenings. In winter, the park transformed into a popular ice skating rink.

The formal opening of the park in its more recognizable form took place in 1899, timed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the birth of Alexander Pushkin. In 1912, a 500-seat summer theater was erected here—one of the first reinforced concrete structures in Russia. During the Soviet era, soloists from the Bolshoi Theater performed on its stage, and famous figures like Maxim Gorky and Vladimir Mayakovsky were among the park's guests.

The park suffered significant damage during World War II, though the summer theater building miraculously survived. After the war, the area was enclosed by an elegant fence built by German prisoners of war. The garden received its current name, "May 1st Park," in the early 1930s, and in 2020, it was officially designated as a specially protected natural area of regional significance.

For a standard introductory walk through May 1st Park, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is plenty of time to leisurely stroll along the main alleys, see the monuments to Alexander Nevsky and Andrey Borovykh, and enjoy the views from the observation points.

If you wish to dive deeper into the history of the site, read the information boards, or enjoy a small picnic in one of the open areas, plan for a visit of 2–3 hours. The park is an excellent place to rest in the middle of a busy sightseeing day, allowing you to catch your breath in peace and quiet.

The park warmly welcomes residents and guests daily. The operating schedule allows for both daytime walks and quiet evening promenades.

On weekdays (Monday – Friday), the park is open from 12:00 to 21:00. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), the gates open an hour earlier—you can enjoy a walk here from 11:00 to 21:00.

Exploring the surroundings of the park can significantly enrich your travel experience. The city center is dense with historical sites and cultural spaces, all located just a few minutes' walk away.

After a peaceful stroll through the alleys, you can head to memorial complexes or visit entertainment centers to diversify your itinerary.