Kadriorg Palace
Harjumaa
Kadriorg Palace, located in Tallinn's Kadriorg district, is a magnificent example of Petrine Baroque architecture built between 1718 and 1725. Commissioned by Russian Czar Peter the Great as a summer residence for his wife Catherine, the palace's design was led by Nicola Michetti, with contributions from Gaetano Chiaveri and Mikhail Zemtsov. The palace is renowned for its grand facade, intricate stucco decorations, and the great hall adorned with Catherine's initials. The surrounding Kadriorg Park features a beautifully designed flower garden with fountains and terraced mirage gardens, reflecting the influence of Italian villa layouts. Over centuries, the palace served various roles, including as the residence of Estonian governors and the official residence of Estonia's head of state. Today, it functions as the Kadriorg Art Museum, showcasing foreign art from the 16th to 20th centuries, including works by renowned artists like Bartholomeus van der Helst, Jacob Jordaens, and Angelica Kauffman. The palace's rich history, elegant architecture, and cultural significance make it a unique and inspiring destination in Estonia.
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Tip: Visit Kadriorg Palace during the late spring to early autumn months to enjoy both the palace interiors and the beautifully maintained gardens. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, which is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Visitors may benefit from discounts for students, seniors, and groups. The museum provides guided tours and informative materials to enhance the experience. Check the official website for current opening hours and special exhibitions.
Interesting facts
- •The palace's name, Kadriorg, means "Catherine's valley" in Estonian and German.
- •The great hall features stucco decorations attributed to Heinrich von Bergen and Catherine's initials.
- •The palace's garden layout shares similarities with Peter the Great's palace in Strelna, Russia.
- •During World War II, the palace served as the residence of the German civilian governor of occupied Estonia.
- •The library was redesigned in the elaborate "Danzig-baroque" style by architect Olev Siinmaa in 1939.
History
Kadriorg Palace was commissioned by Czar Peter the Great following the 1710 siege of Tallinn, with construction commencing in 1718 and completing in 1725.
After Peter's death, the palace saw limited use by the Russian royal family and was sporadically restored in the 19th century.
It housed the civilian governor of the Governorate of Estonia from 1741 to 1917.
Following Estonia's independence in 1918, the palace became state property and was used for art exhibitions and as a residence for the head of state.
It suffered neglect during Soviet times but was restored starting in 1991, reopening as an art museum branch in 2000.
Place Guide
Great Hall1725
The palace's grand hall is adorned with elaborate stucco decorations and Catherine's initials, showcasing the opulence of the Baroque style.
Kadriorg Park and GardensEarly 18th century
Designed by gardener Ilya Surmin, the gardens feature fountains and a multi-level mirage garden inspired by Italian villa landscaping, providing a serene setting around the palace.
Library Room1939
An elaborately decorated library in the "Danzig-baroque" style, completed in 1939 during restoration works led by architect Olev Siinmaa.
Presidential Palace on Grounds1938
A purpose-built presidential palace constructed in 1938, designed by Alar Kotli, located within the Kadriorg estate grounds.
Contact
Phone: 606 6400
