"Keeweechic's Pushkin (Tsarskoe Selo) " a Pushkin Travel Page by keeweechic

The town acknowledges many famous generations of poets, writers and cultural workers of Russia, in particular Alexander Pushkin who spent his young as one of Lyceums pupils and since that time, the town has always been associated with him. Every year Pushkin's birthday (June 6), admirers of his talent come to Pushkin to recite his poems and listen to other people's recitals.

The history of the town dates back to the early 18th century. From St Petersburg you can take a 50 minute drive (26kms) which will take you to the entrance to the Tsarskoye Selo. Catherine's Palace in Tsarkoye Selo (or Tsar's Village) is known to be one of the masterpieces of world art. The estate was given to Catherine by Peter the Great in 1710. This small palace was used until the time of the last Russian Tsar as the summer residence of the Imperial Family. The palace was expanded in 1756 in a baroque style. The extravagant turquoise, white and gold facade stretches 978 feet. The palace suffered sever damage during World War II but afterwards was restored to its original condition.

The palace contains many magnificent rooms, including the famous Picture Gallery and the Great Hall. The grounds surrounding the palace are spectacular with many pavilions scattered about such as the Grotto Pavilion, Chinese Pagoda and the Hermitage. The landscaping was designed in the second half of the 18th century.