Big Stone Staircase in Pavlovsk park, Stone staircase in Pavlovsk, Russia
The Big Stone Staircase comprises 64 steps that connect Pavlovsk Palace with the Slavyanka River valley through four distinct flights separated by spacious landing platforms. The structure creates a monumental passage with clearly defined sections that interrupt the descent.
This staircase was built in 1799 by architect Vincenzo Brenna during Emperor Paul I's reign as a formal ceremonial route between the river valley and the palace. It represents the neoclassical style favored at that time.
The staircase features four lion sculptures that reflect different moods through their placement. Gentle marble lions guard the upper section while fierce cast iron ones stand at the base.
The staircase provides a direct connection between the palace grounds and the river valley with viewing platforms positioned at natural breaks in the descent. Comfortable shoes are advisable as the 64 steps are steep and require careful footing.
The steps gradually increase in width toward the base, creating an optical illusion that makes the staircase appear longer when viewed from below. This effect was an intentional design choice to enhance the sense of grandeur.
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