Nevsky Forest Park

Categories / City Topography/Green Areas/Forest Parks
NEVSKY FOREST PARK is located on the North bank of the Neva, to the north-east of the village Novosaratovka (Vsevolozhsky District of the Leningrad Region). Nevsky Forest Park was laid out in 1937. Drainage channels were constructed; paths and tracks were also made in 1937. The forest park was enlarged several times in post-war years. The present-day park area is 3168 hectares. Nevsky Forest Park is located on even, sandy loam lowlands of the Neva basin. Forests with birches, firs and pine (up to 50 years old) are mostly water logged. The southern part of Nevsky Forest Park facing the Neva is located on the spot of the Zinovyev family's estate Bogoslovka (dating to the beginning of the 19th century, architect V. I. Beretti). Elements of park planning, a few old oak and pine trees and foundations of buildings have survived from the estate. The relief here has a greater contrast due to the deep valleys of the Chernaya River (up to 10 metres) and its tributaries. Birch trees, aspens and firs prevail in the forests on the slopes of valleys, with fir trees successfully propagating. Nevsky Forest Park underwent considerable damage during the time of the Great Patriotic War 1941-45. Up to 90% of the forest was destroyed. Two dams were built in post-war years, forming ponds of the southern part of the forest park. A reclamation project was initiated and the paths were restored, thousands of trees and bushes were planted (oak, maple, birch, larch, weeping willow, honeysuckle, hawthorn, mock orange etc.). Krasnaya and Serebristaya glades in the Neva part of the forest park are the most picturesque places. Small architectural constructions (bridges, benches and settees) and wooden sculptures have been installed in the park.

References: Лихоткин Г. А., Милаш Н. Г. Невский лесопарк. Л., 1968.

G. А. Isachenko. Beretti Vikenty Ivanovich
the Zinovyevs
Лихоткин Г. А., Милаш Н. Г. Невский лесопарк. Л., 1968