Yusupov Palace in Crimea: Description and History

The Yusupov family is one of the richest and most famous in the history of Russia. This family owned many architectural masterpieces. These include an old manor, located on the southern coast of Crimea. Today, the Yusupov Palace opens its doors to guests of the resort area. Anyone can enjoy the view of the perfect building, created in neo-romanesque style, walk through the magnificent park, capture elegant sculptures on photographs. Consider the features of the majestic palace in more detail.

Yusupov Palace can be called mysterious. This is one of the most interesting sights of Crimea with a rich history. It is located in the village Koreiz. Once the estate of the well-known Princess Golitsyna was located here. In the 20s of the XIX century, she acquired land in the village and created several impressive buildings on it. It was a luxury estate with wine cellars and a garden, farm buildings, as well as the Resurrection Church. The latter had a Gothic appearance in the best traditions of style. As for the residential building with terraces, it was created in the spirit of traditional Crimean buildings.

In the middle of the XIX century the estate was sold out. One part went to millionaire Morozov. Another passed from hand to hand. She in turn was owned by Goncharov (brother of Pushkin's wife), Count Sumarokov-Elston. Years later, the son of the latter (Felix Feliksovich) bought the remaining possessions and reunited the estate. In 1882, Felix entered the Yusupov family. This happened due to marriage with the prince's daughter. A man took his wife's name by chance. She was the last representative of an incredibly rich kind. To continue the dynasty, Felix was also given the title.

Princely "Pink House" was replaced by a palace with elements of the Italian Renaissance. The new building had a horseshoe look. Outside it was turned to the sea coast. The construction used gray marbled limestone. So the palace acquired a new look and became known as Yusupov. From the Arkhangelsk region transported a valuable collection of paintings for interior decoration. Among the canvases you could even see a couple of works by Rembrandt. The entrances were decorated with marble lions brought from Venice. These magnificent sculptures are still there today.

The Yusupovs often visited the residence, received guests there. Even the family members of Nicholas II visited the Crimean estate. In the 20s of the twentieth century, the owners of the palace left the country. During the period of Soviet power, the former residence of the Yusupov princes was nationalized. At first it was used as a sanatorium for scientists, later the security officers rested in it. Do not cheat the palace attention, and Stalin himself. He met there with Churchill and Roosevelt, other leading figures. The choice of location for important government meetings was not accidental. The residence has always stood alone. Many local residents did not even know about its existence. This guaranteed respect for the secrets of finding high-ranking officials and allowed creating comfortable conditions for them.

The building was equipped with heating, electric lighting, hot water. Refrigerators were delivered to it, they ran a telephone line.Given the possibility of emergency situations, a hundred meters from the main building on Stalin’s orders, builders created a bunker. He was designed to provide protection against possible raids by the fascists. Construction took place before the arrival of the leader in Yalta on important negotiations.

For many years, the entrance to the palace to outsiders was closed. Today it has become a national treasure. The manor is carefully looked after, supported by buildings and green plantings in a decent way. The territory is still guarded. But at certain hours (by agreement) you can visit her to enjoy the architectural and landscape masterpieces, to touch the history of the ancient dynasty.

First, members of the excursion group are at the main entrance. It is located on the north side. Meet their sculptures depicting lions. Once their eyes were decorated with precious stones. Today on these sites you can see only empty places. The palace ensemble includes three buildings. These are the Yusupov Palace, the Golitsyn Palace, and also the Guest House. The buildings are surrounded by rare trees and shrubs. Also located on the territory of neat beds. Something left of the chic rose garden.

Free area is decorated with several figured pools. They are at different levels. As the palace stands on a slope, height differences are formed. Reservoirs adorn the main entrance and access to the coast. The most beautiful is the swimming pool located in the east. The design of the reservoir is complemented by a bronze girl figure. In the west, the pools are surrounded by lush greenery. The location was thought out so that one of them reflected the building, and the other - Mount Ai-Petri. Complement the landscape design delightful fountains, taking water from mountain streams. Artificial water installations not only delight the eye, but also give coolness on a hot day.

At one time, numerous waterfalls and ponds were also complemented with mirrors that visually enlarge the space. The largest pool was inhabited by goldfish. In addition, delicate water lilies grew in the water. One of the pools was located in a separate pavilion. It was intended for swimming. The temperature of the water maintained at a constant level made it possible to take water procedures at any time of the year. Wings are located in the south. From this side, they are well viewed. There is also a stunning view of the sea and picturesque surroundings.

Unfortunately, not many have survived to this day. These are famous lions, griffins and several other figures. From the sea on the road leading to flower beds and artificial reservoirs, you can see two columns with busts. Menada and satyr are very mysterious. The fact is that in the features of ancient heroes the similarity with Felix and his wife is guessed. The sculpture of Minerva makes a strong impression. It is easy to notice its similarity with the famous American Statue of Liberty.

The interior of the palace has changed in many respects during the Soviet period. However, something remained the same. The decoration of the walls amazes with beauty, many decorative objects are interesting. Very elegant fireplaces made of marble. Elegant vases, antique clocks and figurines left over from Yusupov’s time make the apartment an interesting museum room. The interior combines Italian Renaissance and Modernism.Here you can see the white shelves of enamel, designed for porcelain and bronze objects. Furniture ensembles include Viennese chairs, comfortable corner sofas.

The windows of the living room overlook the park. This is a very bright and romantic room. Once there were celebratory dinners, conversations were held over evening tea. It was pleasant to read in the room, enjoying the quiet rustle of trees outside the window. Especially tourists impressive dining. Laconic, but at the same time very beautifully decorated room has a pleasant meal. Wall decoration is made in a special technique. Patterned surfaces as if covered with expensive fabric. Modern visitors are offered drinks (coffee, tea) and snacks.

Today, anyone can rent any apartment. This is done by filling out the form on the official website. You can also negotiate by phone. Of course, the cost of such a room cannot be compared with an ordinary hotel, therefore not everyone can afford such an unusual vacation. Wealthy gentlemen are also encouraged to organize events in the Yusupov or Golitsyn Palace. This can be a wedding, anniversary, presentation, prom, conference, gala reception or other event. Such a holiday will undoubtedly be remembered for long by all participants. Particularly spectacular can be a masquerade ball held in a luxurious and mysterious residence.

Interestingly, despite the reconstruction of the residence, the park layout of 1830 was preserved. She was engaged in the famous German gardener Karl Kebah. In those days, he was able to ennoble many possessions of noble families. As for the greenery, the park was decorated with the director of the Imperial Botanical Garden. It was thanks to N. Gartvis that unique trees and shrubs appeared on the territory (more than 200 varieties). Pyramidal and Arizona cypress trees, roses, western thuja, ash-leaved maple, white acacia, medlar, horse chestnut, noble laurel and other cultures can be seen here today. They peacefully coexist with juniper, pistachios, pines. This creates a harmonious and natural green environment, which at the same time can be called an example of landscape art.

The park area is 16.5 hectares. Once there was also a luxurious orchard. Pears, peaches, apples, apricots and other cultures delighted the owners and their guests with juicy sweet fruits. To date, only a quince is preserved. The centenary tree still regularly produces 100 kg of fruit. The condition of the park is monitored. Shrubs and trees are trimmed in time. In terms of grooming, it can be an example for many state-owned green areas.

The famous palace is located in the Republic of Crimea, in the village of Koreiz. Exact address: Park descent, house 26. You can find it on the map. Getting to a historic site is easy. You can get to the place by public transport. From the bus station Yalta regularly depart buses in this direction. Landmark is the hotel "1001 nights." You can go on a private car. In this case, you should follow the route H19. It is located just south of the Quay them. Lenin. Seeing the pointer with the words "Koreiz", the driver should turn left. The whole journey may take about 20-25 minutes.

As already mentioned, you cannot just come and enter the territory of the Yusupov Palace. Special time is allocated for visits. Most tourists prefer to explore the historical places in the tour groups. You can find out in advance the schedule of excursions and join one of them.If you want to act independently, you need to call one of the numbers listed on the official website of the Yusupov Palace. In this case, you will have an advantage. You will not depend on the group, you will be able to draw up a plan for inspecting the building and surroundings, stay at your favorite object at any time, take a photo.

For information on when and how to visit the Yusupov Palace, see the next video.