The sculpture was designed by artist Borisov and installed in the early 2000s.
The tree features a prominent, large metal ear specifically designed for visitors to whisper their secret wishes into.
The base of the tree includes a small opening that allows visitors to crawl inside the hollow structure.
It is a popular tradition for visitors to leave small coins or notes inside the tree's hollow trunk.
The sculpture is often cited as a piece of 'urban folklore' art in the Leningrad region.
Derevo Zhelaniy (The Wish Tree) is a stylized metal sculpture located in the historic center of Kronstadt, St. Petersburg. The tree is crafted from iron and features a hollow trunk, a wide ear on the sculpture's side, and an open, smiling mouth. Visitors traditionally whisper their wishes into the tree's ear or crawl through the opening in its base. It serves as a popular focal point for locals and tourists exploring the city's pedestrian zones. The installation is situated near the Kronstadt History Museum and the Naval Cathedral. It is a public art piece accessible at all times without barriers.
Directly in front of the sculpture's face to capture both the ear and the smiling expression.
Visit during the early morning if you want to take photos without other tourists in the frame.
Wear clothing you don't mind getting slightly dusty if you plan to crawl through the base of the sculpture.
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Petrovsky Park.
Do not treat the sculpture as a playground for small children to climb on; it is a fixed metal structure that can have sharp edges.
