• Oranienbaum, Menshikov palace

Oranienbaum is located on the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland, 40 kilometers from St. Petersburg.

It is included in the UNESCO world heritage List and is of great historical value as one of the few complexes that was not destroyed during the great Patriotic war and preserved its original architecture.

During the Northern war Peter I sought to settle these lands to strengthen Russia's position on the shores of the Baltic sea. Here there was a small manor of Alexander Menshikov called Oranienbaum. Peter I often visited the estate of Prince Menshikov.

The ensemble of the Grand Menshikov Palace was built in 1710-1727. In front of the Palace there is a regular Park. During the reign of Peter III in Oranienbaum Peterstadt fortress and Palace of Peter III were built.

In 1762 Peter III abdicated in this Palace. During the reign of Catherine II Oranienbaum became the summer Imperial residence. The Chinese Palace, the Sliding hill pavilion were built and more.

Palaces and parks of Oranienbaum were not captured by the Nazis and were not destroyed. There is special value in their authenticity. Monuments of history and art are preserved as they were 200 years ago.