New Michael Palace, Royal residence at Dvortsovaya Embankment, Saint Petersburg, Russia
New Michael Palace is a royal residence on the Neva Embankment in Saint Petersburg featuring a grand three-story white stone facade with ornate decorations, columns, and sculptural details. The building today houses several research institutions of the Russian Academy of Sciences, including centers dedicated to oriental studies.
Built between 1857 and 1862, the palace was constructed by architect Andrei Stackenschneider for Grand Duke Michael Nikolaevich, son of Emperor Nicholas I, following his marriage to Princess Cecilie of Baden. The creation occurred during a period of rapid urban development in Saint Petersburg during the 1800s.
The palace takes its name from Grand Duke Michael, for whom it was built, and its interior combines classical design with Rococo flourishes throughout the halls. The ornate painted chambers reflect the tastes of 19th-century nobility and remain visible to those who enter the building today.
The building sits directly on the Neva Embankment, where it is clearly visible from the street, though public access is limited since it houses research institutions. The waterfront and opposite bank offer the best vantage points to view the full exterior and appreciate its architectural details.
The building pioneered the use of metal trusses in its construction and was among the first structures in Saint Petersburg to incorporate modern water supply systems. These technological advances were notable achievements in the city's construction practices during the 1800s.
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