Vorontsov Palace - the hallmark of Alupka

2024 Author: Harold Hamphrey | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

Vorontsov Palace is a wonderful attraction, which is located almost in the center of Alupka, in an old park that attracts tourists with its romance and greenery. The palace is a unique architectural monument. It was erected in the first half of the 19th century, in the era of romanticism, however, even today it never ceases to amaze guests with the originality and originality of exquisite architectural forms.

The layout of the palace is very original, which is complemented by an interesting stylistic solution of buildings and interior. The walls and interior decoration absorbed the skills of their creators - hundreds of workers, masons, sculptors, carvers and carpenters. The location of the palace is chosen so correctly that it seems as if nature itself erected this structure and it is an integral part of it.

A bit of history

At one time, the Vorontsov Palace (Alupka) was the summer residence of M. S. Vorontsov, famous in Russiastatesman and governor general. He was the son of the Russian ambassador in England, had an excellent education and upbringing. In his youth, he took part in the wars against Napoleon, distinguished by courage and dedication. In addition, Vorontsov initiated the development of tobacco growing in southern Russia, contributed to the cultivation of grapes, horses, and sheep. During the period of rapid economic development of the Crimea, he bought land here, and over time, the Vorontsov family owned plots not only in Alupka, but also in other parts of the peninsula. To equip his possessions, Vorontsov was looking for masters of various construction speci alties throughout Russia and abroad.

Palace architecture

Vorontsov Palace was built according to the project of an architect from England - Edward Blore, who was the court architect of the English kings. It is Blore who is the author of the projects of Westminster Abbey and a small part of Buckingham Palace. However, the place where the talent of the architect was most clearly imprinted is Alupka.

The Vorontsov Palace was originally built according to a different plan, owned by other architects, Francesco Boffo and Thomas Harrison, but suddenly the construction was stopped, and Blore was entrusted with the development of a further construction plan. The order was completed in one year, and although the architect had never been to Alupka, he took into account all the nuances of the area and the environment so accurately that it seems as if he himself laid the foundation.

The buildings of the palace are located very picturesquely, towards the east. The main entrance to the building is located on the western side, and tourists arriving here are usually met by a typical feudal castle with round watchtowers, enclosed spaces and blank walls. This building is made in a medieval style, and each next building, going east, is the embodiment of the architectural concepts of subsequent eras.

Thus, isolation replaces the light and fresh air that greet the guest in the front yard. The main body is in the Tudor style, as evidenced by the onion domes, pinnacles, battlements and flower-shaped finials.

The whole palace complex consists of five buildings - central, guest, dining, household and library. Each one is different in style and impression. Since everyone has their own impressions, we advise you to go to Alupka and see the Vorontsov Palace with your own eyes!