Construction works in Oranienbaum (Lomonosov) started at the very beginning of XVIII century. It was then that Peter I presented a plot of land on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland to his associate and favorite Alexander Menshikov, who at that time served as Governor of St. Petersburg. Menshikov immediately started construction of his own Grand Palace, which even overshadowed by its splendor the Emperor’s palace, built in the nearby Peterhof. Surprisingly enough, the Oranienbaum palace has survived almost intact. It is one of the most harmonious and amazing architectural monuments dating back to the early XVIII century.

The palace changed hands several times: Emperor Peter III ordered to build the Peterstadt fortress and the so-called “Stone Hall” used for small concerts; during the reign of his wife Empress Catherine II, a whole palace and park ensemble was created, named “My Own Dacha”, complete with the Upper Park, the Chinese Palace and the Rolling Hill. Tastes and preferences of each owner were reflected in the architectural details of the palace and decorative elements of the park ensemble.

During the war, the palaces and parks were not completely destroyed though badly damaged, and now, after the restoration works were completed, one can admire unique XVIII century interiors in their original splendor.

Working museums: the Great Menshikov alace, the Chinese Palace, the Palace of Peter III, the Stone Hall Pavilion. Other museums and some parts of the park are under restoration.