Palace of Harax: a piece of Scotland in the Crimea

The resort village Gaspra in the Crimea - a favorite placefor holidays among many tourists. What is especially nice, during the rest in this village you can not only enjoy the tranquility and silence, but also visit a number of interesting sights. One of them is the Kharaks Palace, a unique building of the beginning of the 20th century.

Construction of a luxurious southern residence

Grand Duke Georgii Mikhailovich (grandson of Nicholas I)he inherited from his father about 100 hectares of land in the Crimea. This site was ideal for the construction of the estate, but for a long time was in desolation due to the lack of fresh water. Georgy Mikhailovich was able to solve this problem by purchasing a drinking source. After which he hired NP. Krasnov - the chief architect of Yalta for design and erection of the estate. It is worth noting that the area was heavily started and works on its improvement were initially carried out. The palace of Harax and the complex of manor buildings were finally completed only by 1908. In addition to the main residential building, the estate was built: a church consecrated in the name of St. Nina, a house for servants, farm buildings. All buildings of the estate were made in the original single style.

Palace of Harax: photo and description

The main manor house is designed in the style of the lateArt Nouveau. The author himself is N.P. Krasnov - called his creation Scottish. The walls of the palace are lined with limestone in the technique of mosaic masonry. All facades of the building are made in the same style, but when viewed from each side, the impression of the building changes. The building is not pompous, but it looks impressive and regal. It is worth noting that the apartment house is really relatively small. The status of the palace building was only due to its large windows. And yet, despite modesty, the estate was considered refined and original, which meant that it was quite suitable for the life of a member of the royal family. In total, the three-story house has 46 premises for various purposes. Palace Kharaks has a spacious terrace on the second floor, rest on which it was possible in any weather.

History of the palace and park complex

Grand Duke Georgii Mikhailovich did not stay longthe owner of a beautiful southern residence in the Scottish style. After the revolution of 1917, the estate was nationalized, and soon a sanatorium was opened here, which preserved the name of the palace. Significantly damaged the southern estate during the Great Patriotic War. After a long recovery, the health center was re-opened only in 1955 with the new name "Dnepr". The sanatorium worked until 2014, and after the change of power again changed its name and became known as "Southern". In the ancient palace today a restaurant is open, which everyone can visit.

Manor park at the palace of Harax

When the architect N.P. Krasnov first saw the area where he was to build the palace Kharaks, he was horrified. Huge works cost the talented master to turn dry stony soil into a real oasis. Over 200 species of trees and bushes have been planted in the park, including a whole collection of coniferous plants. One of the pride of the estate is the juniper grove, which has survived to the present day. With the improvement of the park, a large number of small buildings and decorative elements were erected. A unique construction is an antique gazebo, symbolizing the ancient history of these places. There were other canopies from the sun and rain in the park, as well as fountains, fences, decorative sculptures, benches. Up to now, an impressive stone staircase has been preserved, starting from the main entrance to the apartment building. The steps of this structure lead to the sea.

Explanation of the mysterious name

Many people do not understand and strange thinkthe name of the Kharaks manor. The palace and the park were named after an ancient, supposedly Roman fortress, once located in this area. The word "Harax" in translation from ancient Roman means "fortress". It is believed that excavations Georgy Mikhailovich began to hold even before the construction of the palace. And the result of archaeological research were valuable finds. In 1909, at the estate, a museum was even opened, where a collection of ancient objects was displayed for public viewing. Today, at the library of the sanatorium, there is a museum room where you can learn the history of this area. Archaeological excavations near the palace of Harax are held today. According to experts, the local land may contain a lot of interesting artifacts and antiquities.

Where is the palace of George Mikhailovich?

The palace of Harax in Gaspra today has the followingaddress: Alupkinskoe highway, 13. Historical landmark is located on the territory of the sanatorium "Yuzhny". From Yalta you can get to this place by shuttle bus: № 32, № 102 and № 115. There are no organized excursions to this manor, but believe me, this walk will not leave regrets about lost time. During the walk you can enjoy not only the exterior appearance of the legendary palace, but also appreciate the beauty and convenience of the park layout. You can learn more interesting facts by visiting the mini-museum. The Palace of Harax (Crimea) is a unique attraction, which deserves special attention. The restored building and the well-kept park around produce a pleasant, calming impression. The second such a palace you will not find on the entire Crimean coast!