The residence in Strelna was founded by Peter the Great in 1711. He envisioned a Summer palace and Fountain Gardens. In 1720, he started the construction of a big stone palace. After a better location for the fountain residence was found in Peterhof, the works in Strelna were halted.
In 1750s the project was revived by Peter`s daughter, Empress Elisabeth, who decided to create a living place for VIP guests and courtiers. In the 19th century, the former Imperial residence became the country estate of Grand Duke Konstantin, second son of Paul I, which is why the palace is called Konstatinovsky Palace. Several generations of Grand Dukes lived in the Residence until 1917.
After the revolution, a school was opened here and later a sanatorium. The palace suffered great damage during the occupation of Strelna and was rebuilt to house the Leningrad arctic college in 1950s. In 2003, the complex was reopened to celebrate the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. In 2006, it received the G8 summit and today the President of Russia receives his official guests in its halls. The complex includes 20 cottages for VIP guests, a hotel and a media centre.
A guided tour is available when there are no officials, and may include tasting of wine from the palace cellar.
Open hours
Open daily 10:00 – 16:00.
A guided tour is available when there are no officials.
Recommendations
We recommend this tour to those is interested in modern Russian history and all the guests of St.Petersburg.
