Family Park " Kudykina mountain”, which is located 11 kilometers from Zadonsk, Lipetsk region, suddenly received a new wave of visitors, and all thanks to one interesting exhibit. We are talking about the statue of the Serpent Gorynych, which literally “blew up” social networks.
The work of Ukrainian sculptor Volodymyr Kolesnikov was noted as "extremely realistic" and "eerily attractive".
A huge giant in the form of the Serpent Gorynych actually towers over the entire park, showing fire-breathing mouths.
The director of the Kudykina Gora park, Yulia Uvarkina, directly declares that the fairy-tale antagonist has become an integral part of the exposition and is the most recognizable hero of epics. ? Can it be called the most authentic fairytale hero Russian epic?
A brief excursion into the world of fairy tales and epics
"Kudykina Gora" Lipetsk region not just became one of the most popular tourist destinations not only in Lipetsk, but also on a national scale. Gorynych himself is a recognizable and very popular figure, despite the fact that the snake statue actually symbolizes the recognition of the relevance of the evil principle in Russian fairy tales and epics.
The dragon not only performs the function of Cerberus from, guarding the entrance to the kingdom of the dead through the Kalinov bridge, it is also the actual material embodiment of destructive energy. Usually depicted with the number of heads in multiples of three.
The dragon quite often appears in the mythology of different nationalities and, along with the snake, means a negative beginning. In Russian fairy tales and epics, the Serpent Gorynych is assigned the role of a constant opponent of the protagonist, whether it be Dobrynya Nikitich or Ivan the peasant's son. In the last tale, by the way, he lives on Kudykina Mountain, which can also be called one of the names of Gorynych, as an epithet of the unclean, bad, evil.
In the vast majority of cases, the serpent falls under the blows of the sword or mace of the hero, which actually means the loss of evil and the victory of light. The serpent also personifies rebirth; in some tales, new ones appear in place of cut off heads, twice as many.
Reasons for popularity
Despite the fact that the Serpent Gorynych is primarily a negative character, his popularity and recognition is extremely high.
First of all, the reason for this is the popularization of dragons, as well as the symbolic embodiment of power, which Gorynych certainly is.
In addition, the serpent remains one of the primary characters of epics and legends, so its contribution to the formation of fairy worlds pretty hard. So, for example, the author, who in 2015 published some of the best pictures of a kite at the stage of the initial implementation of the project in the park, quickly gained worldwide popularity. The photo gathered more than 1 million likes and the park near the village of Kamenka became the center of attention, including for foreign tourists.
Project implementations
"Kudykina Gora" is visited annually by tens of thousands of tourists, but in 2007, few believed in the success of the idea. Contrary to expectations, the audience liked the fairy-tale format and the tourist activity in Lipetsk grew quite quickly.
Gorynych himself was laid down in 2015. The original project has undergone several changes, only the general forms remained from the initial incarnation. The statue is made on a metal frame and "sheathed" with concrete. A powerful gas burner is located in each mouth, so that the "mountain" in Lipetsk is illuminated by flashes of flame at night. The statue received national recognition, and the publication of the exposition on Instagram instantly became the center of everyone's attention.
What else is rich in "Kudykina Gora"
Serpent Gorynych is far from the only interesting character in family park.
On the territory of the recreational zone, you can visit a real fortress, sit on the knees of a hero and even take a course in the "city of masters".
The park even has a spring with a font where you can take ablutions. Of course, hungry tourists will be fed in one of several cafes.
According to critics, Kudykina Gora is one of the few truly interesting and original recreation areas in Russia.
Is there one Serpent Gorynych among the Russians
The serpent Gorynych on the territory of Kudykina Gora in Lipetsk is certainly beautiful in its gigantic incarnation and fits perfectly into the atmosphere of the park. However, according to some commentators on social media, it's a little unfair that the serpent statues in other recreation areas across Russia and the CIS have been overlooked.
So, for example, the residents of Petrozavodsk were the first to erect a statue in honor of a fairy-tale character (2000).
Kharkiv, river embankment Lopan
There is also a Gorynych in Kharkov and Novosibirsk. In general, the hero remains extremely recognizable and popular.
For ordinary Russians and residents of the CIS, the snake is just one of the well-known heroes, while bibliophiles and teachers of literature rejoice at the increased popularity of Russian folk tales among the younger generation.
The image of the dragon can be traced among the Normans, Assyrians, Hits, and the Greeks had their own Echidna. The Russian analogue has its own specifics and has never been completely forgotten.
The fact that in honor of a negative, but still literary character, statues are erected, which, moreover, have gained worldwide fame, speaks in favor of a high commitment to folk traditions and folklore, which has always been an example of excellent taste and high education.
Probably, every parent dreams of finding a place where you can relax with your child, while combining outdoor recreation and interesting entertainment. If you are one of them, then we bring to your attention an overview of just such a place. Safari Park "Kudykina Gora" in the Lipetsk region is great place for family vacation located in an ecologically clean area. Here you can not only take a walk, but also have fun with the whole family and take great photos for memory.
The total area of this safari park is about 500 hectares. It is located on the banks of the Don River and is part of the protected area. This place has been considered the most popular attraction in the entire Lipetsk region for several years. In order for you to get a complete picture of this place, you need to describe in more detail the most popular entertainment, services and art objects, among which the giant statue “Serpent Gorynych on Kudykina Gora” is especially famous.
Playground
This town on the territory of the Kudykina Gora park is the largest playground in Russia and the dream of every child. There is big ship, many towers with slides, as well as swings, rope ladders, horizontal bars, labyrinths and many other children's entertainment for active rest. And adults love this place for the sincere smiles of their children and their joyful laughter.
Visiting the children's town is free. The only condition is that at the entrance you need to take off your shoes in order to preserve the sandy surface of the site.
City of masters
The city of craftsmen is amazing not only for its special atmosphere, but also for the fact that it was built completely without nails. The greatest masters from the Ivanovo region worked on its creation. His appearance The city of craftsmen is a wooden fortress, which seems to have descended from the pages of Russian fairy tales.
In the warm season, guests of the Kudykina Gora safari park in the Lipetsk region are waiting for interesting master classes and excursions that will help you get an idea of how life and folk crafts developed on Ancient Russia. Here life is in full swing, and there is not a single street where craftsmen would not work.
It will be interesting for both children and adults to see how such masters work on creating their masterpieces, such as:
- blacksmiths;
- tanners;
- soap makers;
- tailors;
- needlewomen engaged in beading.
V winter time Years City of Masters is changing dramatically. This craft kingdom turns into the Residence of Grandfather Frost. Any child will be delighted with the magical atmosphere that this place is saturated with. Here, children can show their best talents in fun games, which are arranged for the children by the faithful helpers of Santa Claus. And it will be very interesting for adults to watch how children play snowballs, make snowmen and decorate a Christmas tree, and they themselves can join this fun. They will help you appreciate the beauty of the Kudykina Gora safari park (Lipetsk region) photo:
Book store
Here you can buy bright and unique works of modern children's writers for your child. Also here you can find interesting board games and miniature animal figurines that every kid will love and will be a great gift to remember visiting this family safari park.
You can also buy other souvenirs here that will remind you of this place. For example, photo magnets depicting the most beautiful places in the park, such as the Serpent Gorynych on Kudykina Gora (Lipetsk Region), calendars, and even real fresh ostrich eggs and peacock feathers.
riding school
For those who live in or near Lipetsk, a great pastime in the Kudykina Gora park is the riding school. Any child between the ages of 12 and 17 can learn to ride these beautiful, majestic and proud animals for free. Classes are held 4 times a week. Adults can also ride here.
Zoo and farm
Safari Park "Kudykina Gora" is famous for the diversity of the animal world.
It is here that you can see completely different animals in one space, such as:
- Donkeys, which are the first animals of the park;
- Buffaloes who love to swim in the park's river and take mud baths;
- Deer represented by deer, red deer and David's deer, which is a very rare species;
- Ostriches, of which there are two species: African ostriches and Emu ostriches from Australia;
- Camels, which are considered the largest representatives of the animal park "Kudykina Gora";
- Guanaco llamas, which are affectionate animals that are always happy to have guests;
- Black-shouldered peacocks are considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world.
But this is still far from full list animals that can be found in the zoo "Kudykina Gora".
In total, about 50 species of animals and birds live here. In the daytime, they calmly walk behind a wooden fence, and at night they sleep in their houses, built especially for them. You can also feed the animals with vegetables that you can bring with you or buy right here.
Group excursions and walks
Family Park "Kudykina Gora" is a popular place for excursions. Every year tourist groups from all over the country come here, as well as groups of schoolchildren from the Lipetsk region and other nearby regions.
An interesting quest program has been devised for the children here, which includes games with visiting and exploring all the main attractions of the park, an educational program on the history of Ancient Russia, a science show, a visit to the petting zoo, and even food. This tour must be booked in advance.
Also "Kudykina Gora" is amazing beautiful place which is great for family outings. popular place for them is an ancient burial mound, to which a special path leads, passing through the gate, made in the form of a heroic helmet. Also, the favorite routes of visitors to the safari park are the font of the source of Wisdom, the "eye" source and the church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.
Also, be sure to visit the park "Kudykina Gora" (Lipetsk region), see the statue "Snake Gorynych". It was her photo that glorified this park throughout the country, becoming the "star" of Instagram. Beautiful sights of this place are also such art objects as "Petunets", "Three Heroes" and "Trojan Horse".
If you get hungry or tired while visiting the safari park, you can relax in a cozy cafe.
Winter fun
The park "Kudykina Gora" is also relevant in winter, there are entertainments for every taste. Here you can not only visit the Residence of Father Frost, but also actively spend time skiing and skating. Equipment for this can be either brought with you or rented. Also, for the convenience of visitors, there are comfortable locker rooms equipped with lockers.
A photo of a 15-meter statue of the Serpent Gorynych from the Kudykina Gora park in the Lipetsk region was included in the official Instagram blog, as well as in a selection of nine the best photos world, which the social network publishes every week. Foreigners are delighted with the dragon, and the Russians in the comments explain to them what kind of character it is.
His picture was chosen for publication by the official Instagram blog, and in two days the post gained 1.3 million likes.
Encounter with a three-headed dragon looks like something out of a fantasy tale, but Anton photographed it in the Lipetsk region, Russia.
Anton's photo was also included in a selection of the nine best photos that the social network publishes every week.
Foreigners, the picture confused, and Russian Instagram users began to explain what kind of character it was.
"The Return of Grendel. Or go-go Godzilla."
“It's a hydra or whatever it's called. It's from the Percy Jackson movies."
“No, this is not a hydra, this is the Serpent Gorynych, and you need to call three Russian heroes.”
“This is the Serpent Gorynych. In my translation: Serpent Son of the Mountain. He lived in the Far Far Away Kingdom, in the Far Far Away State on Kudykina Gora.
Many foreign bloggers decided that they had a dragon in front of them, and began to joke that they really exist.
"I love dragons."
"That's how they really exist."
“It's not real, it's just a stone. If it was a dragon, Anton would be afraid to photograph it.”
Under the original post in Anton's account, many are surprised how the photo with Zmey Gorynych even got into the official Instagram blog, because the guy is not a celebrity. At the time of writing, he has 1.5 thousand subscribers.
Hello!
General information (from Wikipedia):
The park opened in 2007. The park is one of the most visited tourist attractions of the Zadonsk region and the entire Lipetsk region. The area of the park is 500 hectares. The park opened in 2007.
There is a riding school, hippotherapy classes are held.
In winter, skiing, skating, snowtubes, zorbs, ice rinks for kids are organized in the park.
How to get there?
The park is located in the Lipetsk region near the highway M4 "Don". From Moscow - 400 km . Therefore, if you go then you need to plan an overnight stay. In my case, we stayed with relatives in a nearby village.
I drove through Zadonsk. After passing the bridge, you need to turn left and go to the village Kamenka. The park is located on the left side literally just outside the village. Landmark - when you drive down the mountain on the left you will see a huge Serpent Gorynych on the horizon!
By the way, in Kamenka it is located near the road shop "Pyaterochka" , where before the trip you can buy something to eat or drink with you (although there are no problems with this in the park, but everything will cost more).
We got to the park by car. nearest major railroad station in the town Dace.
Where to leave the car?
We arrived quite late and there were practically no free places for cars. We found in the top parking lot where there is no cover.
Below (closer to the park) there is another parking lot with asphalt pavement and markings. So, of course, there were no places at all. But on the other hand, in the upper parking lot, the car could be left in the shade, and below, only in the sun.
Leaving the car and having a snack, we headed to the park. The first thing to do was to study the map that hung at the entrance -
Just in case, I bought a paper card for 20 rubles. Entrance to the park - free!
The area is really huge! But there are signs and everything can be found without problems -
First of all, we went to the ancient Russian fortress, which stood on the mountain. As it turned out, this is the city of the Serpent Gorynych -
There is a pond to the left of the road. sandy beach. It was very hot outside and many were swimming -
Right scene. Various festivals and events are held in this park -
Information about what is planned in the park is on the website. I found out about it on the back of the purchased map of the park -
By the way, I had to go through the open area for a long time! Don't forget sunscreen and a hat. And here we are almost at the gate -
Looks very cool! Real medieval fortress without windows and doors. Giant arrows and green tails of the Serpent Gorynych stick out of the walls.
Entrance to the fortress is paid - 250 rubles -
We bought tickets and went inside. The first thing that had to go through the corridor, inside a rotating cylinder -
Due to rotation, the illusion of "sickness" is created. And here we are inside Zmeegrad -
Serpent Gorynych - the character is not so kind. Therefore, the atmosphere in Zmeegrad is appropriate.
The first thing we visited was a quest in the labyrinths of the fortress.
Entrance through a hole with teeth -
Inside welcome according to the atmosphere "Evil welcome!", and also warn "Dear guests take care of the bones!". Then you need to climb the stairs to the second floor from where the path will begin through the halls and corridors of the gloomy Zmeegrad -
As for the quest, when we bought a ticket, we were given a piece of paper with a crossword puzzle and tasks.
You could run and look for answers to questions in order to get a prize in a souvenir shop. But we did not have much time, and the children are still small for this, so we just walked and watched. But there were also those who enthusiastically searched for answers to tasks.
The passages between the rooms are narrow with foam rubber teeth -
There is something "unusual" in every room. For example, here is the "bin" of Gorynych. The grain is scattered and you need to go through the stumps so as not to get bogged down in it -
In another room, animal bones are scattered on the floor -
Bones hanging from the ceiling
And on the walls hang skulls with glowing eye sockets!
But all this is absolutely not scary! None of the children cried. Everyone looked around with enthusiasm and waited for what would happen in the next room -
In the next room were musical instruments -
And also hang "bones" for the "game" -
In the last room, a flickering light bulb was just on, and an excited voice kept repeating "Quickly leave the room!"
Coming out of the labyrinth, we again found ourselves in the square. There are several houses inside. For example, the cannibal's house, in which there was a huge table with huge chairs and appliances -
There was a severed leg on the table. A huge piece of meat dangled on a spit in the oven -
Here you can just walk around and take pictures. Even stick your head through the table and end up... on a cannibal's plate.
A strange trail has also been discovered inside Zmeegrad and archaeological excavations -
Lots of souvenir shops around.
You can find everything you like - beautiful clay figurines or crafts made of beads.
There are also workshops where various master classes are held with children -
There is even a "Ghoul Salon" where you can have an unusual photo session -
In several rooms there are different objects with which you can take pictures. But I personally somehow didn’t want to be photographed with my “cut off head”. Maybe someone will like it, it's an amateur.
After visiting Zmeegrad, we again went to the park.
Now we went to the symbol of the park - the huge figure of the "Serpent Gorynych". Passed by giant arrows -
Some arrows are sticking out of the wall. As if there was a big battle -
And here we are near the Serpent Gorynych!
The figure is made of concrete. It impresses with its size and detailing of small details -
For some reason, he was wearing sunglasses over his eyes. To be honest, without glasses, he would have looked more brutal. But what is what is.
From the Serpent, we went down and passed the helmet of the hero -
Then we headed towards the children's town -
On the left are a trampoline and a zorb pool -
The cost of 10 minutes is 300 rubles! Compared to Moscow, it is even more expensive! But business is business.
Passage to the town through a beautiful fairy-tale gate -
You can climb the stairs to the gate and take a picture from above.
Everything is done very beautifully and it is felt that with soul -
Bicycle rental nearby
There are many places in the children's town where children can climb, ride on a swing or slide -
It is curious that the territory is covered with sand. Everyone on the playground must first take off their shoes.
There are various horses, deer, roe deer, ostriches, etc. in the petting zoo. You can feed them, you can ride them. Everything is not free of course.
As it turned out, there is no evil without good. We were on Sunday and on this day at 19:30, once a week Gorynych in the field makes his roar and spews fire! A lot of children and adults gathered around Gorynych. And so the show began!
As it turned out, huge speakers are built into Gorynych and he really "growls"! And from the mouth of a real fire!
It didn't last long. (Time 3-4). But it's really impressive! I have never seen anything like it!!!
It was a great ending to the walk! We really liked the park! Most importantly, the children appreciated it and remembered for a long time how "the dragon breathes on the mountain."
As for food in the park
There are many different cafes on the territory where you can choose what to eat. We had enough sandwiches, which we took with us from home and visiting Pyaterochka in front of the park.
As for the toilets
There are toilets. But the one in the parking lot is simply awful! Terrible stench and a hole in the floor. It's just impossible to get in there. Chlorine hurts the eyes. As a result, everything around is polluted. There are several blue dry closets on the territory. But I think there could be more of them and they could be better.
But in general, I really liked the park! I think it's a great weekend getaway. Therefore, I recommend!
Check out my weekend getaway reviews:
- In Moscow - Tsaritsyno park, Kuzminki-Lyublino park
If you want to choose a place to stay, I recommend the following sites:
