The city of Oranienbaum (Lomonosov)

The city of Oranienbaum (Lomonosov) was founded on the southern shores of the Gulf of Finland, about 1703-1710. The land of the Izhorsky region, near St. Petersburg - hilly and very picturesque - was convenient for summer residences. Features of the terrain and water space predetermined the composition of the ensemble of the palace and the city. On the shore of the bay was built a small Menshikov manor, which was later called Oranienbaum.

The origin of this name stems from a legend that says that on the grounds of a small greenhouse with orange trees, the inscription "Oranienbaum" was made above each one. This incident amused Peter the Great, who often visited Menshikov, and he wished to give this name to the estate. Since 1785, the image of the orange orange tree with orange fruit, which is similar to oranges, is depicted on the coat of arms of Oranienbaum.

The city of Oranienbaum (Lomonosov) itself was built somewhat to the east of the Menshikov estate, having grown out of a village of serfs and artisans. The palace and park complex has three architectural ensembles. This is the complex of the Grand (Menshikov) Palace, Peterstadt and his own cottage, the ensemble of which includes: Kata Gorka pavilion, a unique Chinese palace and the elegant palace of Peter III. In these buildings clearly reflect the architecture of Baroque and classicism styles of the 18th century.

Oranienbaum palaces have long been the summer residence of many members of the royal family. Artistic and architectural monuments of the city, the only palaces and parks in the suburbs of St. Petersburg, which were not in occupied territory during the war.

The monuments have survived to this day with exceptional completeness - that is their special value.

The Oranienbaum architectural and park complex, erected since 1710, was created by the hands of major architects, famous painters, masters of decorative arts. There are many interesting stories about each building, sculpture, painting, which are gladly told by palace guides.

To Oranienbaum, which is 40 km from the city of St. Petersburg, you can take an electric train from the Baltic station, or a shuttle bus, or go on a bus tour.