The brilliant era of the reign of Catherine II left behind many magnificent palaces, such as Gatchinsky, Marble, Tauride, Catherine and Tsaritsyno palace complexes, which today are the decoration of both Russian capitals. Among these architectural structures is the Petrovsky Palace in Moscow. It is located near the metro station Dynamo, at Leningradsky Prospekt, 40.
Petroff Palace: history
The construction of the Petrovsky Travel Palace was begun in 1776 by order of Empress Catherine the Second, who wished to have a comfortable residence on the way from St. Petersburg to Moscow, where she could relax before the ceremonial entrance to Zlatoglavaya. The construction lasted four cities, and although in the summer of 1780 the architect Matvey Kazakov already reported the completion of the work to the Moscow mayor, the first eminent customer honored the new traveling palace with his presence only seven years later. Moreover, according to legend, Catherine said that during her stay in this residence she feels protected by the people and does not need bodyguards. The next royal guest, Pavel the First, spent several days there before his coronation in 1797, thereby laying the foundation for the centuries-old tradition according to which Russian monarchs rested in that then residence near Moscow, before marrying the kingdom in the Moscow Kremlin. In 1812, the Petrovsky Palace for four days became the headquarters of the Emperor Napoleon, and in 1896, on the day of the bloody tragedy on the Khodynka field, a gala dinner was organized in honor of the coronation of Nicholas II. In the Soviet period (since 1923), the building was transferred to the VF Academy. N.E. Zhukovsky and was used as the main administrative building of this educational institution until 1997.
Restoration and reconstruction of the Moscow Petrovsky Palace at the end of the 20th in the beginning of the 21st century
In 1998, the Petrovsky Railway Palace was transferred to the jurisdiction of the Moscow government, and major repairs were made here, including the modernization of communications and the restoration of interior interiors. All restoration work lasted until 2009. As a result, this magnificent historical and architectural monument turned into the House of Gala receptions of the Moscow City Hall, and part of its premises were converted into a four-star hotel with a swimming pool, a Russian bath and the Karamzin restaurant, which serves French, Italian and Russian cuisine. Moreover, in the halls of the first floor from time to time concerts of chamber music and various cultural events are organized, which can be accessed by special invitations or by tickets distributed through concert agencies.
Petroff Palace: excursions
The palace is an excellent example of 18th century architecture, so at any time of the year there are many who want to get there on an excursion. The standard program for such a visit to this palace complex includes a guided walk along the Main Courtyard, the Column Hall, the Kazakov Stairs, the front dome hall and the front floor entrances. However, the most interesting thing is a visit to the palace mini-museum, where exhibits are presented that tell about the history of the construction and reconstruction of the palace, about the coronation celebrations held here during the 18-19 centuries, as well as events during the French occupation of Moscow in 1812. Tourists can also stroll through the magnificent landscape park, broken in 1827 under the direction of the architect Tamantsev, who is engaged in the restoration of the complex after it was ruined by the retreating Napoleonic army.
Those who are going to visit the Petrovsky Palace in Moscow need to know that tickets for excursions are sold at the tour desk located at 2 Zubovsky Boulevard, and must be purchased in advance. Moreover, if the tourist is going to photograph the interior or take pictures in the courtyard, then you need a special photo ticket.
Wedding at the Petrovsky Palace in Moscow
Even 3 decades ago, our mothers and fathers were delighted if they managed to register their marriage at the Wedding Palace instead of signing “quickly” in the registry office at the place of residence. Today the situation has changed, and modern newlyweds have the opportunity to hold a wedding ceremony in the ceremonial halls, where Russian monarchs, aristocrats, as well as famous writers and musicians have visited more than once. In particular, the Petrovsky Palace is a great place for such a celebration, the wedding in which will be an unforgettable event and a good start to family life for any couple in love.
Registration of marriage in the Petrovsky Palace
In 2012, the Moscow authorities allowed to use the Petrovsky Palace as a venue for weddings. Registration of marriage on the territory of this luxurious architectural complex is possible after submitting an application to the Tver registry office. During each month, 2-4 days are allocated for weddings, depending on the season, and newlyweds are allowed to invite up to 20-40 guests to an official exit registration ceremony lasting about 45 minutes. At the request of the newlyweds, the wedding can take place to the sound of classical music performed by a string quartet, and champagne will be served to guests by footmen in livery, sewn according to the uniforms worn by servants in the 18th century.
In addition, as already mentioned, some rooms of the palace complex are reserved for a comfortable hotel, so the newlyweds can spend a romantic night here and meet the dawn in real royal chambers.
Photography in the Petrovsky Palace
Anyone who wants to get a gorgeous photo album as a keepsake of their wedding can recommend choosing the Petrovsky Palace Palace as the place of registration of marriage. Photos from such an exit ceremony against the backdrop of luxurious Empire-style interiors or made in the picturesque alleys of Petrovsky Park will surely become the envy of friends, and it will be nice to see them even many years later.