Commandant's House, Military residence museum in Peter and Paul Fortress, Saint Petersburg, Russia
The Commandant's House is a four-wing building in Peter and Paul Fortress that surrounds a central courtyard and was constructed in the 18th century with baroque design elements. The interior spaces now hold exhibitions that trace the city of Saint Petersburg's development across different eras.
Construction took place between 1743 and 1746 to serve as quarters for fortress commanders and later became an administrative center during the revolutionary period. Its evolution shows how the fortress itself changed from a purely military installation to a cultural institution.
The place served for generations as the home of fortress commanders and continues to shape how visitors experience the inner courtyard area. The rooms show how military leaders and their families lived daily, with domestic spaces, reception areas, and personal objects still on display.
The building is reachable via pathways through the inner courtyard, with access available year-round. Visitors should allow enough time to explore the various exhibition rooms and appreciate the range of collections on display.
A small home chapel from the 18th century remains inside the building and offers rare insight into the personal spiritual life of the military families who lived here. Such private prayer spaces were uncommon and reveal the status given to these commanders.
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