Shuvalovsky Palace
The Shuvalov Palace is considered one of the most beautiful places in St. Petersburg. Also known as the Naryshkin-Shuvalov Palace, its doors are open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:45 PM. The building was constructed in the 19th century. It embodies architectural features of late classicism and neo-Renaissance, with its front façade overlooking the Fontanka River.
History
Construction of the Shuvalov Palace began in the 1780s on Vorontsov land. The land was later purchased by Maria Naryshkina, wife of the wealthiest nobleman, Dmitry Naryshkin. The couple improved the building, added an extension, and created an art gallery and a grand ballroom. Under its new owners, it became the most fashionable place in the empire. They hosted lavish balls and concerts. The royal family even visited them. Maria Naryshkina was a favorite of Alexander I. The palace was later inherited by Dmitry Naryshkin's nephew, Lev. He gave the building as a dowry to his daughter, Sophia, who became the wife of Pyotr Shuvalov. The landmark bears his name because of his invaluable contribution to the development of culture.
Basic Information
The interior of the Shuvalov Palace is striking in its splendor, reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of its owners. The building's beauty was restored by entrepreneur Viktor Vekselberg, who founded the "Link of Times" foundation. He also played an active role in the creation of the museum's collection, which contains over 400 works of decorative, applied, and fine art. The highlight of the Shuvalov Palace collection are the masterpieces of Carl Fabergé. The entrepreneur purchased the collection from the heirs of Malcolm Forbes, publisher of the prestigious magazine. He didn't wait for the auction and purchased the treasures for 100 million US dollars.
The pride of the collection are nine Easter eggs presented to Alexander III and Nicholas II. The halls of the Shuvalov Palace are decorated with works by talented Russian and European artists. Among the exhibits are jewelry, vases, paintings, icons, and even religious objects. The interior of the Shuvalov Palace occupies 4,700 square meters and consists of 11 halls. The museum collections are located on the second floor of the building. Admission is 500 rubles, and an audio guide is available for 250 rubles. A guided tour costs 1,000 rubles.
