Vysokoye – Vysokoye Estate and Landscape Park

In the 19th century, an architectural ensemble of a palace, church, and landscape park was created at the Vysokoye Estate to a design by Nikolai Benois, set within the landscape of the Vazuza Valley. The park includes a formal section and a landscape-style section, as well as avenues. More than 300 species of trees and shrubs are part of its collection; four of the five former ponds remain. The Church of the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God has been restored. The restoration was reported in October 2025; in March 2026, the church was described as fully restored.

The estate’s distinctive feature is the interplay of its three components: the palace, church, and park were designed as an architectural ensemble. Nikolai Benois’s design dates to the 19th century and explicitly incorporates the landscape of the Vazuza Valley into the grounds. The estate can therefore be understood not only through a single building, but also through the connection between architecture and landscape.

The restored church is dedicated to the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God. Its restoration has a clear timeline: it was reported in October 2025, and in March 2026 the church was described as fully restored. These details add a more recent restoration phase to the ensemble’s earlier history.

The park combines a formal section with a landscape-style one. These two terms highlight different design forms within the same grounds; a system of avenues is another feature. Those interested in historic park design will therefore find several aspects to explore here, rather than just a single garden style.

The figures also describe different aspects of the park: more than 300 species of trees and shrubs illustrate the diversity of its woody plants. Four of the five former ponds remain. Together, the avenues, different sections of the park, and ponds offer a vivid picture of how the estate’s landscape was designed.

One of the archaeological highlights of Smolensk Oblast is the Gnyozdovo complex. Today, about 2,500 burial mounds and a settlement remain there. Gnyozdovo is considered the largest complex of archaeological monuments in Russia and Europe dating from the formation of the Old Russian state, and is protected by the state as a monument of federal significance.

Another distinct attraction in Smolensk Oblast is the A. S. Griboyedov Khmelita State Historical, Cultural, and Natural Museum Reserve. It is located in Vyazemsky District, 260 km from Moscow, 200 km from Smolensk, and 37 km from Vyazma. The Khmelita Estate has been owned by the Griboyedov family since 1680 and is the centerpiece of the museum reserve.

For nature enthusiasts, Smolensk Oblast offers Smolenskoye Poozerye National Park. It was established on April 15, 1992, in the Demidovsky and Dukhovshchinsky districts to protect unique natural complexes for recreational, educational, scientific, and cultural purposes. A viewpoint on the high southern shore of Lake Sapsho offers views of the lake and several islands.

The “K istokam” ecological trail is a circular route that starts in the village of Stary Dvor. Two viewpoints at Lakes Svyatets and Sapsho are listed as having been set up there for 2023–2024. A track for mobile apps such as Geotreker or MAPS.ME can help you walk the route independently.

The “Stargrad” ethnographic village in Smolensk Oblast offers another way to experience the region’s culture. Guided tours introduce visitors to the way of life of the ancient Slavs and showcase everyday objects, weapons, and clothing. Visits are possible only as part of a guided group. The extended program includes, among other things, the “Babiy kut” workshop on traditional women’s crafts and a lunch featuring historical dishes from maritime and marching and field cuisine, prepared in cauldrons over an open fire. Be sure to coordinate the extended program items in advance when planning your visit.

Discover more destinations: Klushino, Bibirevo, Demidov, Sheverdino, Krasny, Luzhki, Staroye Selo, Gorodnya.

When was the church’s restoration described?

The restoration was reported in October 2025. In March 2026, the church was described as fully restored.

What is known about the estate park?

It has a formal section and a landscape-style section, avenues, and more than 300 species of trees and shrubs. Four of the five former ponds remain.

What should you know before visiting “Stargrad”?

Visits are possible only as part of a guided group. If you’re interested in workshops and other items in the extended program, plan to coordinate them in advance.

For the broader travel overview: Smolensk Oblast.