State-Owned Mezhyhiria: A New Generation of Protected Areas in Ukraine

Park-monument of landscape art of the national importance “Mezhyhiria” is the newest addition to Ukraine’s protected area network, making it the country’s "youngest" park.
State-Owned Mezhyhiria Represents:● A modern park-monument with high conservation value, home to flora and fauna species with international protection status  ● A territory within the Emerald Network, designated for biodiversity conservation  ● A park complex with unique tourist attractions and breathtaking views of the Kyiv Sea  ● A historic site with over a thousand years of history, spanning from the times of Kyivan Rus, the Zaporizhzhian Sich, and inspiring Taras Shevchenko  ● A vast natural area designed for recovery and recreation, catering to various forms of physical, emotional, creative, intellectual, spiritual, social, and sensory well-being  ● A rehabilitation space for children and adults, with special attention and respect given to Ukraine’s defenders  ● A centre for environmental education and a barrier-free space  ● A hub for collaboration between Ukrainian and international experts  ● An open space for feedback and suggestions from every visitor  ● A shining green gem in Ukraine’s tourism landscape  ● A must-visit destination in Ukraine at any time of the year  
In 2023, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed a law officially returning Mezhyhiria to state ownership and establishing it as a 138.6-hectare national landscape park. This law marks a restoration of justice, ensuring that what belongs to the people of Ukraine is once again under public ownership. It also set in motion the transformation of the former private residence of a fugitive ex-president into a state-protected park of national significance.  
Mezhyhiria’s recent history makes it one of Ukraine’s most unique protected areas. In 2012, thanks to unlimited access to state funds, an extravagantly expensive reconstruction of the park complex was completed. This included the creation of artificial landscapes, luxurious buildings, and sumptuously decorated interiors. Until February 2014, this hidden enclave was the private retreat of a pro-Russian ex-president, who fled to Russia during the Revolution of Dignity.  
The state-owned Park-Monument "Mezhyhiria" officially opened on August 31, 2024. From this moment, for the first time since 2014, all revenues generated by the park go directly into Ukraine’s state treasury.