Catherine Palace

The Catherine Palace is a former Russian residence of the Russian Imperial family. It is in the town of Pushkin, Saint Petersburg.

The Palace's town was called Tsarskoye Selo which means Tsar's village in English. In 1918 the Bolsheviks changed the name to Detskoye Selo. In 1937 the town was renamed to Pushkin to honor Alexander Pushkin.

History

Catherine I of Russia began the building of the palace in 1717. She hired the German architect Johann-Friedrich Braunstein to create the summer palace. In 1733, Empress Anna added to the palace. Then in 1752 Empress Elizabeth had the palace torn down. It was rebuilt in a Rococo style. More than 100 kilograms of gold were used. Many statues on the roof were covered in gold.

Catherine the Great thought the palace was old-fashioned. She employed Scottish architect Charles Cameron. He made one wing into the Neo-Palladian style. He also changed the personal apartments of the Empress.

After Catherine's death the imperial family began using Pavlovsk Palace and Alexander Palace. The palace was destroyed during World War II. Restoration began soon after the German forces left. Now the palace is mostly restored and is open for tours.

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Turkish Airlines
27 October 2015
Prepare yourself for an amazing day during your trip to St.Petersburg! The Catherine Palace is a true masterpiece with stunning grounds and a charming exterior decorated blue and white.
Ma Hi
22 July 2016
Its phenomenal.a MUST see.it has a very long waiting line to enter,make sure you have enough time,sometimes it takes several hours to enter.Every room is beautiful.the amber room is amazing.
NeKiPiSHui
11 June 2012
My favourite of the palace areas outside of the city. The palace is slightly less glittery than Peterhof, and the gardens are huge and beautiful.
S G Y
1 October 2015
One of the most amazing palaces, definitely 'a must visit' in St. Petersburg. From the outside doesn't look as flashy as Peterhof, but inside is stunning. Totally worth the visit!
Sofia Uz
11 May 2015
One of many hidden gems, definitely worth a visit, take a walk around the palace- Chinese bridge sculptures have been recently restored
Ана Лековић
23 August 2019
Pt3: If you know the basics, I don't recommend renting audioguide. If you do, you will need deposit (cash/id). Once inside feel free to overstay your welcome in each room as tour is short (~30min).
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