Первый кадетский корпус, Military education complex in Vasileostrovsky District, Russia
The First Cadet Corps occupies the former Menshikov Palace with a large central building, symmetrical wings, and classical architectural features in Vasileostrovsky District. The facility contained extensive training spaces, classrooms, and dormitories where students learned mathematics, languages, military tactics, and other subjects.
The institution was founded in 1731 under Empress Anna Ioannovna and became Russia's first military academy for noble children. It developed into a leading school that educated generations of military leaders and other notable figures.
The building contained a printing house and theater where cadets performed plays and pursued literary activities under the direction of Prince Boris Yusupov.
The complex operates as an active military school, so interior access may be limited or restricted for visitors. The classical exterior architecture is easily viewable from the street and provides a good sense of the historical structure.
The school educated several prominent figures including Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, Admiral Fyodor Ushakov, and composers Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Alexander Scriabin. This mix of military leaders and artists shows the breadth of education the institution provided.
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