Church of Catherine Palace, Palace church in Pushkin, Russia

The Church of Catherine Palace is a chapel with five gilded domes and blue walls that forms part of the northern wing along Sadovaya Street. A two-tier colonnade frames its entrance, and the interior contains richly decorated spaces with religious furnishings and artwork typical of 18th-century palace design.

Architect Savva Chevakinsky designed this chapel in 1746, with construction finished in 1756 during the reign of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna in Elizabethan Baroque style. The completion coincided with significant renovations and expansions of the palace that continued throughout the 18th century.

This chapel served as the religious center of the imperial family for more than two centuries, where the court gathered for baptisms and weddings. Visitors today can see the valuable religious objects and ornate furnishings that show how important these spaces were to the dynasty.

Access to this chapel is only available as part of a tour of the entire palace, so plan to spend time exploring the broader complex. Entry tickets are purchased at the Sadovaya Street entrance and provide access to this space along with many other rooms throughout the site.

Inside the chapel stands a pure gold chalice in Rocaille style, a gift from Empress Elizabeth Petrovna during the dedication ceremony. This precious vessel remains one of the most remarkable religious artifacts within the palace's imperial collections.