Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The estate fell into disrepair during the Soviet period, occupied by a children's
camp and a secondary school. It was devastated by German occupation during
WWII, and then left to languish for more than half a century.
In the lead-up to the tercentennial in 2003, President Putin decreed that the
property would be rebuilt and converted to a presidential palace - in other
words, the 'Palace of Putin'. Using LeBlond's original design, the park (admission
R150) was landscaped with canals, bridges and fountains, as well as Peter's in-
tended island chateau. Studded with sculpture, it makes a lovely place for a
stroll or picnic.
Konstantinovsky Palace ( 438 5360; www.konstantinpalace.ru , in Russi-
an; Berezovaya al 3; adult/student R400/200; 10am-5pm Thu-Tue) has also been fully re-
stored. Excursions visit the fabulous state rooms, including the Blue Room and
the over-the-top ornate Marble Room, as well as the ceremonial guest rooms of
the president and the first lady. Most impressively, visitors can take a peek into
the wine cellar. Apparently, as far back as 1755 these premises were used to
house the emperor's collection of Hungarian wine, when the Winter Palace was
under construction. These days the cellar contains a collection of more than
13,000 bottles from all over the world.
Also known as the Congress Palace, it is often used for official functions, host-
ing heads of state and other important delegations. For this reason, it's import-
ant to call in advance to confirm that the grounds and palace will be open when
you wish to visit. If you'd like to sleep like a tsar, consider staying at the Baltic
Star Hotel (see the boxed text, CLICK HERE ).
Pushkin & Pavlovsk Пушкин и Павловск
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