Peterhof Palace
Northwestern Federal District Region
Peterhof Palace is a magnificent complex of palaces and gardens located in Petergof, near Saint Petersburg, Russia. Commissioned by Peter the Great in the early 18th century as a response to France's Palace of Versailles, it embodies the Petrine Baroque style and stands as a symbol of Russia's westernization. The complex includes the Grand Palace, the expansive Lower Gardens with over 60 fountains, and the impressive Grand Cascade featuring the iconic Samson Fountain. Designed by architects like Domenico Trezzini and Jean-Baptiste Alexandre Le Blond, the palace and its gardens reflect French influence blended with Russian grandeur. The fountains operate through an ingenious gravity-fed water system without pumps, drawing water naturally from the Ropsha Heights. The site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its historical significance and artistic mastery. Visitors can explore the ornate interiors, extensive gardens, and waterworks, experiencing a unique blend of royal opulence and engineering marvels.
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Tip: The best time to visit Peterhof Palace is during late spring to early autumn when the fountains are operational and gardens are in full bloom. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist season. Visitors should allocate several hours to fully explore the vast gardens and palace interiors. Guided tours are available to enrich the experience with historical insights. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and children. Arrive early to enjoy the Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain without crowds.
Interesting facts
- •The Samson Fountain jet reaches a height of 21 meters, making it the tallest in Peterhof.
- •The palace's fountain system operates entirely without pumps, using a natural gravity-fed water supply from the Ropsha Heights.
- •Peterhof's waterworks include 96 kilometers of canals, 16 ponds, and 135 hydraulic structures.
- •The first art gallery in Russia was established in the Monplaisir Palace, housing works by Dutch, Flemish, Italian, and German artists of the 17th-18th centuries.
- •The Grand Cascade is inspired by a fountain at Louis XIV's Château de Marly.
- •The Audienc Hall in Peterhof was the first Russian interior to use optical illusions with parallel mirrors.
History
Peterhof Palace was commissioned by Peter the Great in 1709 following his visit to the French royal court, aiming to create a Russian counterpart to Versailles.
Construction began with the Monplaisir Palace in 1714, based on Peter's own sketches.
The palace complex expanded significantly throughout the 18th century, notably under architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli during Elizabeth of Russia's reign.
The site suffered damage during World War II but was meticulously restored post-war.
Over centuries, Peterhof evolved from a country residence to a symbol of imperial grandeur and Russian cultural identity.
Place Guide
Grand Palace (Bolshoi Dvorets)1714-1723
The central and most prominent building of the Peterhof complex, showcasing Petrine Baroque architecture with lavish interiors and royal apartments.
Lower Gardens (Nizhny Sad)Early 18th century
Spanning over 1.02 km², these gardens contain the majority of Peterhof's famous fountains, small palaces, and outbuildings, nestled between a bluff and the shore.
Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain1730s
A spectacular Baroque fountain ensemble featuring 64 fountains and the iconic Samson statue symbolizing Russia's victory over Sweden, with a 21-meter high water jet.
Monplaisir Palace1714-1723
Peter the Great's personal summer residence, designed from his sketches, housing Russia's first art gallery with European masterpieces.
Contact
Phone: 8 (812) 602-23-46
