The park was named Aleksandriya in honor of Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, wife of Nicholas I.
The Gothic Chapel within the park was designed by the German architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel.
The estate was historically kept as a private family retreat, making it more secluded than the adjacent Peterhof Grand Palace grounds.
The park features a unique collection of rural-style 'farm' buildings integrated into the royal landscape design.
The Aleksandriya Park entrance serves as the gateway to a romantic-style landscaped park located on the Gulf of Finland coast in Petergof. Unlike the rigid formal geometry of the nearby Lower Park, Aleksandriya emphasizes a picturesque, naturalistic layout designed in the 19th century. The grounds contain the Gothic-style Chapel, built for the Romanov family, and the Cottage Palace. The park stretches along the coastline, offering views across the water toward St. Petersburg. Its terrain is characterized by rolling hills, expansive lawns, and groves of mature trees, providing a contrast to the fountain-dominated landscapes of neighboring estates. The park was commissioned by Emperor Nicholas I as a private family retreat for Empress Alexandra Feodorovna. Today, it operates as a museum-reserve, balancing historical preservation with public recreational space.
The shoreline path looking back toward the Cottage Palace with the Gulf of Finland in the background.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park features extensive gravel paths and uneven terrain.
Bring a light windbreaker, even in summer, due to the cooling breeze coming off the Gulf of Finland.
Plan to visit the Gothic Chapel, as its architecture is distinct from the surrounding Imperial buildings.
Do not attempt to walk from the Grand Palace to the Aleksandriya entrance via the shoreline, as fences may obstruct the route.
Park grounds generally remain open year-round, but specific museum buildings within the park close on certain weekdays and may have reduced hours in the off-season.
Respect the landscaped lawns by staying on marked paths; silence is expected near the Gothic Chapel.
