Dolina zaitcev - Petrozavodsk

This is one of the most unusual and touching places not only in the city but, perhaps, in all of Karelia. Its official name is the Culture and Recreation Park 'Belichiy Ostrov' (Squirrel Island), but among locals, it has firmly become known as 'The Valley of the Hares' (Dolina Zaitsev). What is it? 'The Valley of the Hares' is an art space, an open-air museum, and simply a very kind place, created through the efforts of a local artist and sculptor, Sergei Alekseevich Terpak. It all began in 2001 when he placed the first wooden hare on the old trees along a path. The idea was well-received by the residents, and over time, more and more hares appeared. They were and continue to be brought by different people: some make them with their own hands, others bring them from their travels. Today, it is a whole collection of hundreds of hare figurines, statuettes, and images placed on trees, stumps, in hollows, and on special stands. Where is it located? The park is located in the very center of Petrozavodsk, on a small peninsula in the waters of Lake Onega, not far from the Onega Embankment and the river station. Address: Petrozavodsk, Pushkinskaya Street, Park 'Belichiy Ostrov'." Best time to visit: In summer, spring, and early autumn, when the greenery and flowers make the park especially beautiful. But in winter, it also has its own charm. #localguides