Chinese Palace of Russia

The Chinese Palace is a one-story building in Lomonosov that combines Russian architecture with Chinese-inspired design elements on its exterior. Inside are several ceremonial rooms and historical chambers that tell the story of how the space was used.

Empress Catherine II commissioned Italian architect Antonio Rinaldi to build this summer residence between 1762 and 1768 as her personal retreat. The building reflects the architectural tastes of that important era.

The beaded study displays twelve original panels from the 1760s that show Russian craftsmanship through intricate decorative work. These rooms reveal how artisans of that time created elaborate interior details.

The palace is open to visitors from spring through autumn and offers guided tours in several languages throughout the day. It is best to plan your visit during good weather and allow time to walk through the rooms at a comfortable pace.

The floors incorporate wood varieties including mahogany, boxwood, Persian walnut, maple, birch, and oak arranged in geometric patterns. This choice of woods shows how craftspeople combined rare materials from different regions into decorative designs.

Location: Lomonosov

Inception: 1762

Founders: Catherine II of Russia

Architectural style: Rococo

Part of: Complex de palais chinois en Oranienbaum

Website: https://peterhofmuseum.ru/objects/oranienbaum/kitayskiy_dvorets

GPS coordinates: 59.91020,29.74380

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:25