Pidzamkovyy Park

Located on the picturesque right bank of the Uzh River, the city's oldest park, Podzamkovy Park (also known as Castle Hill Park), is a unique blend of nature and history. This green oasis in Uzhhorod, Ukraine, has held the status of a landscape gardening monument for over half a century.

Castle Hill Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The park's main treasure is the legendary Drugeth's Plane Tree—a tree that is over 500 years old. It is believed to have been brought from Italy and planted during the Late Middle Ages. In addition to this giant, the 4-hectare territory is home to exotic magnolias, thujas, and pines, creating the atmosphere of a genuine open-air arboretum.

Today, the park is not just a historical site but also a popular recreation area. It features the Spartak Stadium, amusement rides, and cozy cafes, making it a must-visit for anyone who wants to feel the spirit of the old town and enjoy the tranquility beneath the shade of ancient giants.

To plan your visit to this historical landmark, you can use the following contact details:

In Podzamkovy Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. The main reason nature lovers visit is the chance to see Uzhhorod's oldest plane tree. Its massive trunk, nearly two meters in diameter, and sprawling canopy serve as a beautiful backdrop for memorable photos. A walk among rare pine species and blooming magnolias allows you to experience the atmosphere of an aristocratic 16th-century garden.

For active leisure, the park features the "Tarzan" rope park, amusement rides, and a shooting gallery. Sports enthusiasts can use the tennis tables or visit the historic Spartak Stadium. If your goal is relaxation, the numerous benches along the Uzh River are an ideal spot for quietly watching the current and the surrounding landscapes.

Although the children's railway is currently not operating, walking along its tracks adds a special nostalgic charm to the area. After sightseeing, you can stop by one of the local cafes for a snack before continuing your exploration of the Castle Hill surroundings.

Finding the park is quite easy, as it is located in the central part of the city at 33 Pidhrads'ka Street. If you are in the area of Uzhhorod Castle, the walk will take only 5–7 minutes. The route passes through picturesque old streets that wind around the castle hill.

For those who prefer public transport, buses and minibuses going to stops near Castle Hill (Zamkova Hora) or the "Electrodvigatel" bus station are suitable. From there, the park entrance is a 10-minute walk. A taxi ride from the city center is also quick and convenient due to the site's central location.

If you are traveling by car, follow your GPS toward the right bank of the Uzh River. Parking is available on the adjacent streets; however, keep in mind that the area is very popular with locals on weekends, and spaces may be limited.

The history of this site began in the mid-16th century when the Drugeth Counts established the so-called "Beast Park" here. Originally, it was a protected hunting reserve and part of a system of five luxurious parks that surrounded the fortress on Castle Hill.

In the 19th century, the green zone was transformed and renamed in honor of the prominent Hungarian politician and public figure István Széchenyi. During this period, the park began its evolution from a wild forest into a refined space for promenades. Later, in the first half of the 20th century, one of the city's first stadiums and a swimming pool were built here, turning the park into a center for sporting life.

During the Soviet period, the park was renamed after Maxim Gorky, and in 1947, the famous Uzhhorod Children's Railway opened on its territory. Today, Podzamkovy Park holds the status of a local landscape gardening monument and continues to be a living witness to the city's centuries-old history.

For a basic tour of the park and a stroll along its main alleys, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. During this time, you can find the famous patriarch plane tree, walk along the riverbank, and enjoy the peace in the shade of the ancient trees.

If you plan to visit the amusement rides, the rope park, or combine your walk with a visit to the neighboring Uzhhorod Castle, we recommend setting aside at least 3 hours. The park is compact, making it an ideal addition to a short visit to the city.

The park is open to visitors daily throughout the year. Official opening hours are from 05:00 to 23:00. This wide timeframe allows for everything from an early morning jog to a pleasant evening stroll by lamplight.

Please note that the operation of amusement rides, the shooting gallery, and cafes depends on the season and weather conditions. To confirm the hours of specific entertainment facilities, we recommend checking the latest information on local city portals.

Exploring the surroundings of Podzamkovy Park is a great way to complement your walk. Key historical and entertainment sites are located just a few minutes' walk away and are well worth including in your itinerary.