Lomonosov

Lomonosov is a coastal municipality in Petrodvortsovy District in northwestern Russia, located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) west of Saint Petersburg along the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland. The town stretches along the waterfront and consists of residential neighborhoods, parks, and the large Oranienbaum palace complex that forms the heart of the settlement.

Alexander Menshikov, a close associate of Tsar Peter the Great, ordered the construction of a summer residence here beginning in 1710 opposite the naval fortress of Kronstadt. The settlement received its current name in 1948 to honor the polymath who had previously worked in the area.

The city bears the name of scientist Mikhail Lomonosov, who established and ran a glass factory here during the 18th century. Today the town serves as a quiet residential area for commuters and contains several schools as well as a small harbor along the gulf shore.

Electric trains run regularly from Saint Petersburg Baltic Terminal to Oranienbaum station and take about an hour for the trip. Visitors can walk through streets near the palace park and have free access to the waterfront strip along the gulf.

The Oranienbaum palace grounds remained unoccupied by German troops during World War II and are therefore the only imperial residence near Saint Petersburg without war damage. Visitors see original 18th-century interiors and facades that are not preserved elsewhere.

Location: Petrodvortsovy District

Inception: 1710

GPS coordinates: 59.91667,29.76667

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:01