Alexander Hall of the Winter Palace

Alexander Hall is a ceremonial chamber in the Winter Palace featuring twenty-four medallions on its walls that celebrate military victories and allegorical scenes. Seven pairs of columns support the vaulted ceiling and form the structural core of this grand space.

Architect Alexander Briullov designed and rebuilt this space in 1838 following the destructive fire of 1837 that damaged the palace. The reconstruction made it a memorial to the palace's resilience and to national military glory.

The hall blends Western European Gothic forms with Empire style, displaying Russian double-headed eagles and military symbols that visitors encounter throughout the space. This stylistic mix shows how Russia presented itself as both a European power and a distinct nation.

The hall is part of the Winter Palace museum and requires a museum ticket to enter. Visiting early in the day or on weekdays provides a quieter experience to observe the architectural details and medallions at your own pace.

At the far end of the hall, one medallion portrays Emperor Alexander I as Rodomysl, an ancient Slavic deity. This artistic choice merges European tradition with references to Slavic mythology in a way visitors often overlook.

Location: Saint Petersburg

Part of: Winter Palace

GPS coordinates: 59.94130,30.31410

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06