The Mikhailovsky (St. Michael's) Castle

The Mikhailovsky Castle, now a branch of the Russian Museum is one of the most mysterious buildings in St. Petersburg.

The history of the castle, built between 1797 and1800 for Russia's most enigmatic monarch, Emperor Paul I, is full of unusual and dramatic events.

In the early 1990s the castle became a branch of the Russian Museum and now houses its Portrait Gallery, featuring official portraits of the Russian Emperors and Empresses and various dignitaries and celebrities from the late 17th to the early 20th century. The castle also houses an array of semi- permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The Mikhailovsky Castle was built by the Italian architect Vincenzo Brenna as a residence for the Emperor Paul I. Due to Paul's interest in Medieval knights and his constant fear of assassination, the palace was built like a castle and was surrounded by ditches and draw- bridges. Ironically, Paul I was assassinated in his own bedroom on March 12 1801, shortly after he moved into his newly built castle.

Hours: Open Daily from10am to 6pm.

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Contact Information

The Mikhailovsky (St. Michael's) Castle
Sadovaya Street 2
191011 St.Petersburg, RU

Tel. +78122104173

http://www.saint-petersburg.com/virtual-tour/mikhailovsky-castle.asp