Park Kuzminki is closely entwined with the large Stroganov estate, and was supposedly used as a hunting ground in the 17th century. Now the estate of which it was part of includes the white Church of the Blachernae Icon of Theotokos which — like many others — was closed in the first half of the 20th century. Locals are noticeably friendlier than in the city centre and numerous ducks and birds populate the area - there are even bird-spotting boards dotted around for Russian speakers. In the winter, the four connecting lakes are used for ice fishing, and in the spring and summer, are perfect to relax beside with a loved one. Kuzminskaya Ulitsa even has a signpost towards Ded Moroz (Russina Father Christmas)'s house, and the park has recently played host to an animated cartoon factory, to celebrate 100 years of Russia's legendary industry.
