The Vorontsov Palace is a wonderful attraction, which is located almost in the center of Alupka, in an old park that attracts tourists with its romance and greenery. The palace is a unique architectural monument. It was erected in the first half of the 19th century, in the era of romanticism, however, even today it does not cease to amaze guests with the originality and originality of exquisite architectural forms.
The layout of the palace is very original, which is complemented by an interesting style decision of the buildings and interior. The walls and interior design have incorporated the skill of their creators - hundreds of workers, masons, sculptors, carvers and joiners. The location of the palace was chosen so correctly that it seems as if nature itself erected this building and it is an integral part of it.
A bit of history
At one time, the Vorontsov Palace (Alupka) was the summer residence of M.S. Vorontsov, a well-known statesman and governor-general in Russia. He was the son of a Russian ambassador to England, had an excellent education and upbringing. In his youth he took part in wars against Napoleon, was distinguished by his courage and dedication. In addition, Vorontsov initiated the development of tobacco growing in southern Russia, promoted the cultivation of grapes, horses, and sheep. During the rapid economic development of Crimea, he bought land here, and over time the Vorontsov family owned plots not only in Alupka, but also in other parts of the peninsula. To equip his possessions, Vorontsov was looking for masters of various construction specialties throughout Russia and abroad.
Palace architecture
The Vorontsov Palace was built according to the project of an architect from England - Eduard Blor, who was the court architect of the English kings. It was Blor who authored the projects of Westminster Abbey and a small part of Buckingham Palace. However, the place where the talent of the architect was imprinted most vividly is Alupka.
The Vorontsov Palace was originally built according to a different plan belonging to other architects, Francesco Boffo and Thomas Harrison, but suddenly the construction was stopped, and Blor was entrusted with the development of a further construction plan. The order was completed in one year, and although the architect was never in Alupka, he took into account all the nuances of the terrain and the environment so precisely that it seems like he was laying the foundation with his own hands.
The buildings of the palace are very picturesque, facing east. The main entrance to the building is located on the western side, and tourists arriving here are usually met by a typical
feudal castle with round watchtowers, enclosed spaces and dull walls.
This building is made in the medieval style, and each subsequent building along the east represents the embodiment of
architectural concepts of subsequent eras.
So, isolation replaces the light and fresh air that meet the guest in the front yard. The main building is made in the Tudor style, as evidenced by bulbous domes, pinnacles, battlements and pommels in the form of flowers.
The entire palace complex consists of five buildings - the central, guest, dining, household and library. Each of them is different in style and impression. Since everyone has their own impressions, we advise you to recover in Alupka and see the Vorontsov Palace with your own eyes!