Patriarch's Pond (Patriarshy Prudy)

Patriarch's Pond (Patriarshy Prudy) Review

The beginning of Russian satirist and novelist Mikhail Bulgakov's (1891-1940) novel The Master and Margarita is set in this small park. Bulgakov is most famous for this novel and his satirical novel Heart of a Dog. The park and pond were named after the patriarch of the Orthodox Church, who once owned the area. Shaded by trees and with plenty of benches, it's a nice spot for a break, and there are several good restaurants nearby. In winter the pond is used as a skating rink. Cafe Margarita is nearby at 28 Malaya Bronnaya, and its lively musical performers and Bulgakov mural make it worth a visit, especially if you've read any Bulgakov.