Усадьба Михайловка

Nestled between the Summer Garden and the Mikhailovsky Garden, Mikhailovsky Castle stands as a testament to the eccentricities of Emperor Paul I. His fascination with medieval knights, mysticism, and military might is woven into the very fabric of this unusual structure. Paul I, fearing assassination and disliking the Winter Palace, envisioned a sanctuary reflecting his unique tastes. He personally sketched the initial designs for Mikhailovsky Castle. Construction lasted from 1797 to 1801, overseen by architects Vincenzo Brenna and Vasily Bazhenov. The square building, with its octagonal inner courtyard, showcases a fascinating blend of architectural styles. Each of the four facades boasts a distinct style, incorporating Gothic and Renaissance elements while grounded in Neoclassicism. Adding to the castle’s mystique, two new canals were dug, connecting the Moika and Fontanka Rivers. These canals transformed Mikhailovsky Castle into an island fortress, accessible only by drawbridge. Paul I also commissioned an equestrian statue of Peter the Great, created by Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1747, to stand guard before the southern facade. Ironically, despite his elaborate security measures, Paul I only resided in Mikhailovsky Castle for 40 days before being assassinated in his bedroom in 1801. Following his demise, the Imperial family returned to the Winter Palace. In 1819, Mikhailovsky Castle became the Main Engineering School of the Russian Army. A notable student of this school was Fyodor Dostoevsky, who attended from 1838 to 1843. Now, Mikhailovsky Castle houses the portrait collection of the State Russian Museum, to which it was transferred in 1994. During summer, its courtyard echoes with the melodies of occasional classical music concerts, a peaceful contrast to its turbulent past.