Alexander Palace

Why go

Alexander Palace rewards attention to scale, orientation, and setting. The Alexander Palace (Александровский дворец) is former royal residence in Tsarskoye Selo, near St Petersburg. Before leaving, compare one close detail of Alexander Palace with its broadest public view. At Alexander Palace, a slower circuit makes Alexander Palace's neighborhood relationship easier to read.

What to look for

• Alexander Palace: Read the main silhouette against the open space around it.
• Alexander Palace: Look closely at facade materials and ornament.
• Alexander Palace: Step back to place the landmark in the skyline.

The full story

The Alexander Palace (Александровский дворец) is former royal residence in Tsarskoye Selo, near St Petersburg. It is primarily known as the favoured residence of the last Russian Emperor, Nicholas II, and his family. It is situated in the Alexander Park, not far from the larger Catherine Palace. The Alexander Palace was constructed in the Imperial retreat of Tsarskoe Selo. It was commissioned by Catherine the Great for her favorite grandson and future emperor Alexander I of Russia on the occasion of his marriage to Grand Duchess Elizaveeta Alexeevna, born Princess Louise Mary August of Baden. The graceful Neoclassical edifice was planned by Giacomo Quarenghi and built between 1792-1796. Alexander I gave the palace to his brother, the future Nicholas I for summer usage. From that time on, it was the summer residence of the heir to the throne. From 1830-1850, extensive redecoration was carried- The appearance of the formal and private rooms of the palace during Nicholas' reign can be seen in exquisite watercolors by E.Hau, I.Premazzi and I.Volsky from 1840-1860.

Useful to know

• Check the current admission calendar for Alexander Palace before building an interior visit around it.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.