By: Alex
For global travel bloggers, Russia’s biggest draw is undoubtedly Lake Baikal. In fact, local travel bloggers are also very keen on “ruin tourism,” which not only satisfies the thrill of adventure and discovery but also creates a unique sense of decadent aesthetics unique to the “fighting nation.” Not far from Moscow, in the Tula region, there is a “Jurassic Park” that has been abandoned and overgrown with weeds, some as tall as a person, adding to the site's natural and authentic atmosphere—something that can’t be compared to meticulously crafted, glamorous theme parks.
▲ (photo by hellocuva @IG)
For various reasons, Russia seems to have more abandoned buildings, military facilities, and even “weapon graveyards” than other countries, providing many unique photo spots for local travel bloggers and influencers. The “Jurassic Park” was originally part of a large tourist complex called Golden City, located about a 3-hour drive from Moscow and partially operational since 2012. According to the original plan, Golden City would include hotels, restaurants, sports facilities, and entertainment venues—all set to welcome global travelers just like Disneyland once completed. Additionally, the construction plans included what was claimed to be the tallest roller coaster in Europe, standing 4 meters taller than the one at Spain’s PortAventura.
▲ (photo by hellocuva @IG)
Unfortunately, Golden City, which was expected to be completed in 2020 and fully open in the summer of 2021, is now just a vast field overgrown with wild grass. The once vividly crafted dinosaur statues, now surrounded by weeds, not only avoid a desolate and dilapidated feel but instead exude a more primal, natural charm. It’s no wonder that despite its somewhat remote location, the site still attracts many locals to take photos.
▲ (photo by velkarock @IG)
▲ (photo by velkarock @IG)
▲ (photo by velkarock @IG)
▲ (photo by velkarock @IG)
▲ (photo by valerochka_ty @IG)
▲ (photo by mosquarium @IG)
▲ (photo by mosquarium @IG)
▲ (photo by mosquarium @IG)
▲ (photo by mosquarium @IG)
▲ (photo by mosquarium @IG)
▲ (photo by mateokarlito @IG)
▲ (photo by mateokarlito @IG)
▲ (photo by gluhoman_go @IG)
▲ (photo by gluhoman_go @IG)
Source: Design You Trust