Mikhailovsky (Engineer's) Castle is a historical landmark located in the center of St. Petersburg. The castle was built during the reign of Emperor Paul I and served as his residence. This period was very brief, lasting only 40 days. Today, Mikhailovsky Castle is a branch of the State Russian Museum.
How to Get There
Mikhailovsky Castle is situated near two metro stations: "Nevsky Prospect" and "Gostiny Dvor." After exiting the metro, walk to the intersection of Nevsky Prospect and Sadovaya Street and turn left. The castle will be located on the right, about 600 meters ahead.
The price of an adult ticket for Russian citizens is 250 rubles (as of fall 2018).
By the way, nearby is the Mikhailovsky Palace, which is also part of the Russian Museum.
History of Mikhailovsky Castle
Before the castle was built, there was a wooden palace on this site known as the Summer Palace. Emperor Paul I ordered the demolition of the old building and the construction of a new stone structure in its place. The design of the castle began in 1784, and the residence was consecrated only 16 years later, on November 8 (20), 1800. The project was initially designed by the renowned architect Bazhenev, who had also worked on the Tsaritsyno estate in Moscow. The project was later revised by the court architect of Emperor Paul, Vincenzo Brenna.
A popular legend about the castle’s name goes that during the time of the Summer Palace, the guard stationed there was visited by the Archangel Michael, who commanded the construction of a temple on this site. In Russian architectural tradition, this is the only instance where a building was named not after its owner or the area where it is located.
All four facades of the building have different forms and purposes. For example, the southern facade is the main one, featuring the main entrance to the building. The northern facade, facing the Summer Garden, is the park facade. The western and eastern facades are similar to each other, with the western also known as the church facade due to the location of the palace church there.
Opposite the main entrance is a monument to Peter I. By order of Emperor Paul, the pedestal bears the inscription "To the great-grandfather from the great-grandson."
After the assassination of Paul I in 1801, the castle was abandoned by the imperial family. Since 1819, the building has housed the Main Engineering School, giving it its second name, the Engineer's Castle. Subsequently, the building housed various organizations. During World War II, it was used as a hospital. In the Soviet era, it accommodated various institutes and research centers.
In 1991, the process of transferring Mikhailovsky Castle to the Russian Museum began. The renovated and restored building was opened to visitors in 2003, during the celebrations of the city's 300th anniversary.
Today, Mikhailovsky Castle hosts fascinating art-historical exhibitions such as "Open Sculpture Collection," "Faces of Russia," and "Petersburg Society of the Romanov Era." You can explore the rich history of our country through portraits, sculptures, and various household items. Additionally, original sculptures from the Summer Garden are also displayed here.
Mikhailovsky Castle is conveniently located relative to other attractions in the historic center. You can combine a visit with a stroll through Mikhailovsky Garden or Mars Field.
In summary:
- Interesting exhibitions and beautiful historical building;
- The palace interiors impress with their grandeur and diversity;
- It is the only "Castle on the Water" in Russia, so don't miss the chance to visit this wonderful place.
