View of Palace Embankment from Peter and Paul Fortress with State Tretyakov Gallery — Scenic view of the Palace Embankment as seen from the Peter and Paul Fortress, featuring the State Tretyakov Gallery in the background

May Day demonstration in front of the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg, Russia, 1918 — Historical black-and-white photograph of a May Day workers' demonstration held in front of the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in 1918, during the early Soviet period.

Vintage stereophoto of the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg showing neoclassical architecture and waterfront views — Historical stereophoto of the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg taken circa 1850-1880 by photographer L. Gothe. The image depicts the neoclassical palace architecture along the waterfront, printed using albumen on cardboard photo paper.

Kolpakov Castrum Doloris of Stanislaus Augustus architectural drawing — Detailed architectural drawing of Kolpakov Castrum Doloris, created during the era of Stanislaus Augustus, showcasing historic design elements.

Internal court of Marble Palace with classical sculptures and architectural details — View of the internal court of Marble Palace featuring classical sculptures, elegant architectural details, and a historic ambiance

Monument to Alexander III of Russia with oriental frontage of Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg — Monument dedicated to Alexander III of Russia set against the oriental-style façade of the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Marble Palace view from the south-east with classical architecture and lush greenery — Scenic view of the Marble Palace from the south-east showcasing its classical architecture surrounded by lush greenery and clear sky

Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg Russia with classical architecture — Exterior view of Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg Russia showcasing its classical architectural design and ornate details

Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg Russia architectural exterior — View of the Marble Palace, an 18th-century neoclassical palace located in Saint Petersburg, Russia, showcasing its elegant facade and columns.

Monument to Alexander III of Russia by Paolo Troubetzkoy in front of the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg — Statue of Alexander III of Russia created by Paolo Troubetzkoy, prominently displayed in front of the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg, showcasing historic Russian imperial art and architecture.

Marble Palace building in Saint Petersburg with classical architecture and ornate sculptures on the roof — Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg, Russia, showcasing classical architecture and decorative rooftop sculptures

View of Palace Embankment buildings 8 and 10, Millionnaya Street building 5, and Mramorny Lane from the Neva River in Saint Petersburg — Scenic view from the Neva River showcasing historic buildings at Palace Embankment numbers 8 and 10, Millionnaya Street number 5, and Mramorny Lane in the Central District of Saint Petersburg.

What the Marble Palace is

In the heart of Saint Petersburg, the Marble Palace is a historic landmark commissioned by Empress Catherine the Great and designed by Italian architect Antonio Rinaldi. Its name reflects its lavish use of over 30 varieties of marble from quarries across Russia and Europe (The State Hermitage Museum).

Originally intended as a gift for Catherine’s favorite, Grigory Potemkin, the palace passed through several hands before becoming a museum showcasing Russian art (Visiting the Marble Palace in Saint Petersburg). Today it is a branch of the State Russian Museum, with a collection covering Russian art from the 18th to the 20th centuries.

History

Potemkin died in 1791, leaving the unfinished palace in the empress’s hands. Catherine then gave it to her grandson, Grand Duke Constantine Pavlovich, on his marriage to Princess Anna Feodorovna of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. Antonio Rinaldi’s original design was significantly altered under the supervision of Ivan Starov to suit the young couple.

After Constantine’s death, the palace passed to his younger brother, Grand Duke Nicholas Pavlovich, who later became Emperor Nicholas I. Extensive renovations turned it into a grand residence for Nicholas’s second son, Grand Duke Konstantin Nikolayevich. During this period, the palace became a centre of social and cultural activity.

Following the Russian Revolution, the palace ceased to be an imperial residence and initially housed the Museum of the Revolution. In 1937, it became a branch of the Russian Museum.

What to see

The palace’s architecture blends Neoclassical and early Classicist elements. Its decoration includes 32 different shades of marble from quarries across Russia and Europe.

The museum’s collection presents Russian art from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The palace also hosts special events and exhibitions throughout the year. The grand staircase and main hall are popular photography spots.

Practical visiting information

Opening hours

The Marble Palace is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and the first Thursday of each month.

Tickets

General admission: 500 RUB
Students and seniors: 300 RUB
Children under 18: Free

Getting there

The palace is at 5/1 Millionnaya Street, Saint Petersburg. The nearest metro station is Nevsky Prospekt, from which it is a short walk.

Accessibility

The palace is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators. Special assistance can be requested at the entrance.

Tips

Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the official website.

Nearby places

The State Hermitage Museum
The Summer Garden
The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

FAQ

What are the Marble Palace visiting hours?

The palace is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and the first Thursday of each month.

How much are the Marble Palace tickets?

General admission: 500 RUB
Students and seniors: 300 RUB
Children under 18: Free

How can I get to the Marble Palace?

The palace is at 5/1 Millionnaya Street, Saint Petersburg, near the Nevsky Prospekt metro station.

Is the Marble Palace wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Ramps and elevators are available.