Creaking Pagoda

The Creaking Pagoda stands between two ponds and marks the boundary between Catherine Park and the New Garden of Alexander Park. The chinoiserie structure has multiple levels, decorated walls, and layered roof edges with curved lines typical of Chinese architecture.

Architect Georg von Veldten designed and built this Chinese-inspired summer house between 1778 and 1786 under Catherine the Great. The structure was created during an era when European noble families were captivated by art forms from the Far East.

The structure shows Chinese design elements through decorated walls and dragon figures at the roof corners. This style reflects how European nobles were drawn to exotic forms from distant lands.

The structure is accessible via Parkovaya Street 52 in Tsarskoe Selo and can be reached on foot from the park entrance. Wear sturdy shoes since the paths between the ponds can be uneven and muddy during wet weather.

A metal weathervane at the top produces a distinctive creaking sound when moved by wind, giving the structure its unusual name. This acoustic feature becomes noticeable during strong winds and adds an unexpected sensory layer to visiting the building.