Palace of Harax: a piece of Scotland in the Crimea

The resort village of Gaspra in the Crimea is a favorite place for spending holidays among many tourists. What is especially pleasant, 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 Kharax Palace, a unique building of the early 20th century.

Construction of a luxurious southern residence

Grand Duke Georgii Mikhailovich (grandson of Nicholas I) 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 the design and erection of the estate. It is worth noting that the territory was heavily started and works on its improvement were initially carried out. The palace of Kharaks 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 late modern style. 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 Harax 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 long with the owner of the beautiful southern residence in the Scottish style. After the revolution of 1917, the estate was nationalized, and soon there was opened a sanatorium, which preserved the name of the palace. Significantly damaged the southern estate during the Great Patriotic War. After a long recovery, the sanatorium 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, everyone can visit.

Manor park at the palace of Harax

When the architect N. P. Krasnov first saw the terrain where he was to build the Kharaks Palace, he was horrified. Huge works cost the talented master to turn dry stony soil into a real oasis. Over 200 species of trees and shrubs have been planted on the park's territory, including a whole collection of coniferous plants. One of the pride of the estate is a juniper grove that has survived to this day. With the improvement of the park, a large number of small buildings and decorative elements were erected. A unique structure - an antique summerhouse, 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

To many ordinary people it is incomprehensible and strange that the name of the Kharaks manor seems to be. The palace and 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 the excavation Georgy Mikhailovich began to hold even before the construction of the palace. And the result of archaeological research was 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 sanatorium library there is a museum room where you can learn the history of the area. Archaeological excavations near the palace of Harax are held today. According to experts, the land here may contain a lot of interesting artifacts and antiquities.

Where is the palace of George Mikhailovich?

Kharaks Palace in Gaspra today has the following address: Alupkinskoye shosse, 13. The historical landmark is located on the territory of the sanatorium "Yuzhny". From Yalta, you can get to this place by taxi: № 32, № 102 and № 115. There are no organized excursions to this manor, but believe me, this walk will not leave regrets about the lost time. During the walk you can enjoy not only the external appearance of the legendary palace, but also appreciate the beauty and convenience of the park layout. You can find out 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 give a pleasant, calming impression. The second such a palace you will not find on the entire Crimean coast!