Sparrow Hills (Vorobyovy Gory), Moscow, Russia

Why Explore the Sparrow Hills in Moscow

One of the highest points in Moscow and one of its most breathtaking places - the Sparrow Hills (also known as Vorobyovy Gory) is a picturesque hill on the banks of Moskva River. The 720 ft hill opens incredible panoramic views of the hectic capital of Russia from the famous observation platform, located on a steep bank.

The Sparrow Hills takes its name after Vorobyovo, a village that belonged to a Russian Grand Duchess in the 15th, yet the area was inhabited long before that, predictably in the I century B.C. From the 15th to the 18th century the huge wooden Vorobyevsky Palace stood on the hill, it was the summer residence of Russian nobles, unfortunately, it burnt down during the Moscow fire of 1812. Alexander I even planned to build the overwhelming Cathedral of Christ the Savior on the location of the palace yet the project wasn't executed.

The Sparrow Hills Observation Deck

Today the territory boasts a large beautiful forest-park, numerous ponds, bike paths, and a famous ski trampoline with a ski slope and chair lift. The Sparrow Hills is a favored tourist attraction and meeting place of the motorcycle community and street racers.

Apart from the views, the territory of the Sparrow Hills encompasses many interesting sights, including the Moscow State University - which was once the tallest building in Europe. The petite ancient wooden Trinity Church that is considered to be dating back to the 14th century is also among the main landmarks of the area and is a noted federal architectural landmark. One of the oldest patriarchal monasteries is also located at the foot of the hill.