Did you know that Peterhof’s fountains work without pumps? The water flows thanks to the clever use of natural springs and reservoirs. Right before you stands Peterhof a breathtaking palace and garden complex in Saint Petersburg. Commissioned by Peter the Great Peterhof is often called the Russian Versailles. Peter the Great’s inspiration came after visiting the Palace of Versailles. The architect Domenico Trezzini shaped Peterhof’s Petrine Baroque style between 1714 and 1728. Jean-Baptiste Alexandre Le Blond designed the gardens. He likely got the job because of his past work with the Versailles landscaper Andr Le Ntre.
The Grand Palace dominates the landscape. But it wasn’t always so grand. Originally a smaller building it was expanded by Elizabeth of Russia. Architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli added wings between 1745 and 1755. The Grand Cascade another centerpiece of Peterhof is below the Grand Palace. It’s modeled after a cascade at Louis XIV’s Chteau de Marly. The Samson Fountain in the Grand Cascade is truly impressive. Its 20-meter-high jet symbolizes Russia’s victory over Sweden in the Great Northern War. The lion’s mouth represents the Swedish coat of arms. One of the biggest victories was won on St Sampson’s Day. The original Samson statue was looted during World War II. A replica stands there now.
The Lower Gardens are a stunning display of French formal gardens. The many fountains showcase remarkable creativity. The Golden Mountain and Chess Mountain offer unique cascades. These aren’t the only palaces at Peterhof. The Monplaisir Palace Peter’s summer retreat was built earlier. The Marli Palace and the Hermitage Pavilion were also built early on.
World War II brought devastation to Peterhof. German troops occupied it from 1941 to 1944. They largely destroyed the fountains and palace. The Soviets managed to save some treasures. But most of the large fountain sculptures remained in place. A fierce battle took place in the nearby Alexandria Park. Soviet marines tried to recapture the town. But the operation failed. The Germans inflicted heavy losses on the Soviets. The restoration of Peterhof is a long ongoing project that continues to this day. The name was changed to Petrodvorets due to anti-German sentiment but was restored in 1997. Peterhof a testament to Russian ambition and resilience stands as a stunning example of Baroque architecture and landscape design. It is a legacy of Peter the Great’s vision and a symbol of Russia’s rich history.