Park of Arts Muzeon

Description:

• Another example of Russia's confused allegiances in the post-Communist era, this park gathers together scores of busts and full-size statues of Lenin and other now-disgraced Soviet icons. The pieces were torn down in the democratic fervor of the early 1990s, but not destroyed. Many ended up in a graceless heap in an alley in nearby Gorky Park before a group of independent artists righted them and gave them a new home behind the modern art museum. Despite its political overtones, the park is a peaceful and pleasant place, with wooden bench swings, bird feeders, and a garden of exotic and Russian pines. The statues of Soviet leaders are interspersed with other icons such as pianist Van Cliburn, and surrounded by lanes of avant-garde sculptures. It's easy to combine this with a visit to the modern art museum. Allow a half-hour or so for exploring and resting in the park.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010