Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ity of the last three centuries, and its structures appear to be little more than ruins at
present. Its fortunes are about to change, however, as Russian billionaire Roman
Abramovich acquired the island in 2010 and is planning to redevelop it into a cultural
and commercial centre, which, it is hotly rumoured, will also house his own enormous
contemporary art collection.
In Peter's time, the complex was used for ship-building (its name refers to the place
where he learned the trade). In the 19th century, a large basin was built in the middle
of the island. Here experiments were conducted by scientist Alexey Krylov in an at-
tempt to build a boat that couldn't be capsized. In 1915 the navy built a radio trans-
mitter here - the most powerful in Russia at the time - but it's been derelict and inac-
cessible ever since. If you walk by, look out for the impressive red-brick and granite
arch, designed by Jean-Baptiste Vallin de la Mothe in the late 18th century, one of the
city's best examples of Russian classicism.
PAALACCE
HOUSE OF MUSIC
Thu; Spasskaya)
This fabulous and fully restored mansion at the very far end of the
Moyka River belonged to Grand Duke Alexey, the son of Alexander II. The wrought-
iron and stone fence is one of its most stunning features, with the Grand Duke's
monogram adorning the central gates. The palace was built in 1895 by Maximilian
Messmacher, and each facade represents a different architectural style, perhaps re-
flective of the character of Grand Duke Alexey himself. The interior is equally di-
verse, and since renovation has housed the House of Music (Dom Muzyki), where
popular classical concerts are regularly held. Tours of the house (R350) usually leave
at noon and 4pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but these dates vary and tickets often
sell out in advance, so check the website.
