Petrovsky Palace

Designed by the renowned architect Matvey Kazakov, this striking Neo-Gothic palace was built in the late 18th century. The imperial family and their entourage would often stop here to rest before entering Moscow. Catherine the Great stayed at the palace on multiple occasions, and it was under her command that the travel palace was constructed. Monarchs traditionally paused here along Tverskoy Road during their coronation processions to Moscow, where they also held lavish ceremonial banquets to mark their ascension to the throne. In 1812, Napoleon himself witnessed the Great Moscow Fire from this very palace. He remained there for several days and later described the flames as “the most magnificent and dreadful sight” he had ever beheld.