Catherine Palace

Catherine Palace is a neoclassical building in Lefortovo District with a red facade featuring 16 Corinthian columns made of gray stone, stretching along Krasnokadetsky Lane. The structure displays balanced proportions and symmetrical design typical of late 18th-century Russian architecture.

Empress Catherine II commissioned the palace in 1773, with architects Antonio Rinaldi and Karl Blank overseeing construction until 1796. The project reflected imperial ambitions during a period of significant architectural expansion in Russia.

The interior spaces show a blend of Russian Baroque and Neoclassical forms, revealing how architectural tastes shifted during the late 1700s. The decorative elements and room proportions reflect the artistic changes that took place under Catherine II's era.

The building now functions as the headquarters of the Combined Arms Academy and serves as a military education facility. Access for visitors is limited and may require advance arrangement or special permission.

Upon completion, this became Moscow's largest building and required an investment of about 3.6 million rubles from the imperial treasury. This remarkable expenditure shows how much Catherine II valued the project.

Location: Lefortovo District

Inception: 1797

Founders: Catherine II of Russia

Architects: Antonio Rinaldi, Karl Blank, Giacomo Quarenghi, Francesco Camporesi

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture, Neoclassical architecture in Russia

GPS coordinates: 55.76139,37.69528

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:57