Priory Palace: A Journey into a Knightly Fairy Tale

For guests of Corinthia Hotel St. Petersburg wishing to touch living history and enjoy the beauty of the suburbs, we offer an unforgettable trip to Gatchina. Just 40 minutes away from the Northern Capital, a true architectural marvel and one of Russia's most romantic castles awaits you — the Priory Palace.

This is not just a countryside residence, but a unique monument to engineering and the age of chivalry. Built in 1799 by order of Emperor Paul I for the Knights of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, the Priory seems to have stepped off the pages of a European Gothic novel. Its tall tower and red roofs rise above the shores of the picturesque Black Lake, creating an atmosphere of medieval seclusion. Highly recognizable, the building has long been the primary symbol of Gatchina, preserving the spirit of a bygone era.

The main secret of this place lies within its walls. The Priory Palace is the only building in Russia constructed using the rammed-earth (pisé) technique. Architect Nikolay Lvov brilliantly rammed earth into formwork, bonding it with lime mortar. According to calculations, the structure was built to last for half a century, but this "earthen" castle has stood proudly for over two hundred years, surviving wars and time.

Today, strolling through its halls, you feel as if you are stepping back in time. Time here seems to have stood still. The palace hosts permanent and temporary exhibitions, and the tower's observation deck offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the park and lake.

The Priory Palace is the perfect destination for a day trip from St. Petersburg, offering unique experiences and a peaceful getaway from the city bustle in an atmosphere of romance and history.