Grand Peterhof Palace
About museum
The Grand Peterhof Palace is a national monument of culture and art that embodies important historical events. Over two centuries it became the center of the imperial court's social life during the summer months. Receptions, balls, dinners and masquerades were held here. In the 18th century, at the request of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna, architect Francesco Rastrelli rebuilt the modest Petrine Upper Chambers, and the palace acquired its majestic appearance. The palace interiors include both the lavish Baroque halls of the Elizabethan style and the more restrained rooms created for Empress Catherine II. Today visitors can take an engaging tour of the palace, which displays decorative and applied arts, paintings, porcelain, furniture and sculptures.