The Russia Journal

This time we propose a stroll starting from metro station, Prospekt Mira: TAKE A BREATH OF fresh air in the BotanIC GardenS (annex of the M.G.U., main BotanICAL GardenS), take a look at the Muslim mosque at Vypolzov pereulok and visit the house-CUM-museum of Russia-s famous painter, Vassily vasnetsov. The sights are close to each other, making sightseeing easy.

From the starting point (metro Prospekt Mira, Ring Line) go down Prospekt Mira toward the Garden Ring to the intersection with Grokholsky lane. This will take you three to four minutes.

Below, a large fenced area T the Botanical Gardens.

Of course, it is better to visit the garden in the summer, when the trees are in full leaf filling the park with oxygen and fine smells, but winter has its own treats too. Enjoy the calm and rest your eyes on a view of clean and sparkling snow. Good place to go to with children.

Legend has it that this tree was planted by Peter the Great in 1710. It looks like something out of Jurassic park, but metallic rings supporting its trunk indicate its importance to the community.

If you are not too tired or cold at this point, go back to the metro station, cross Prospekt Mira, and walk toward the Olimpiisky Sports Complex. When you see the complex, look to the left and note the domes of one of Moscow-s oldest mosques (14 Vypolzov Per.).

NB: If you wish to enter the mosque you will be asked to take your shoes off.

Exit the mosque, and go down the Vypolzov Per., across the Durova Ul., and down the Meshchanskaya Ul. to its intersection with the Vasnetsov Per. Turn to the left, walk another 50 meters and you are sure to notice a peculiar wooden building with intricately carved gates and roof. The Vassily Vasnetsov museum-house is located at 13 Vasnetsov Per., is open daily, except Monday, Tuesday and the last Thursday of every month, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., ticket costs 25 rubles. A guide will can take you on a tour and tell you about the life and creativity of the famous Russian painter.