A city within a city. The city of Pavlovsk of St. Petersburg is located in the Pushkin district of St. Petersburg. It is widely known as an outstanding country residence of Emperor Pavel I (also known as Emperor Paul the First of Russia) and his family. The area, located 30 km away from the centre of St. Petersburg, has a rich architectural heritage.
How to get to Pavlovsk
The easiest way to get to the district is by train or using a fixed-route taxi from St. Petersburg or the nearest Pushkin. The road is 38 km in total and will take about an hour or less on a car – this, of course, depends on the traffic density.
Major Attractions in Pavlovsk
Train Station
When you arrive at Pavlovsk in St. Petersburg for the first time, you will find yourself in the building of the old station. It was initially built in the 50s and is made using the architectural style of the “Stalinist Empire”.
Mausoleum “To my Spouse-Benefactor”
It is located in the depths of Pavlovsky Park in a dark and dense forest that fully conveys the appropriate atmosphere of the place. Inside there is a tombstone with a symbol of sorrow for all the dead.
Pavlovsky park
This is the largest and most majestic landscape park in Russia, which includes 7 districts:
- Palace area with its garden;
- Centre with linden alley, terraces, carpet flower gardens and the famous Labyrinth with curly bushes;
- The area of the Slavyanka River with numerous bridges and bizarre dwarf trees;
- White Birch – a plain park;
- Old Sylvia with a regular layout and paths that stretch from the central square.
- New Sylvia with dense deciduous forest and the Mausoleum.
- Red Valley with centuries-old oaks, willows and ancient ruins.
Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
It was built in the memory of Emperor Pavel I and is located at 2 Artillery Street.
Colonnade of Apollo
It is located on the coast of Slavyanka River. The structure itself is a double ring of columns with a copy of the statue of Apollo installed in the middle.
Pink Pavilion
This famous pavilion was a place of residence for many writers, poets and artists. The pavilion is surrounded by a beautiful rose garden and impresses with its romantic architecture.
Stein’s Dacha
The impressively beautiful lilac mansion, which was built in the Art Nouveau architectural style. It is located on Sadovaya Street, 9.
Fortress of Emperor Pavel I
A luxurious bastion of the Tsarist times, where a military garrison and an artillery command were previously located. In the modern century, it was rebuilt into the private luxury hotel and restaurant. Address: Mariinskaya street, 4.
Nikolaev Gates
They were the main gateway to the city of Pavlovsk, as well as a gift from Emperor Nicholas I to Empress Maria Feodorovna. Address: Sadovaya street, 20, building 1.
Temple of Friendship
A round building with modest bas-reliefs. The statue of Catherine the Great in the role of Cecera is located in the centre of the Temple. Museum exhibitions are held here in the summer. Location: Pavlovsky Park.
Almshouse of Kurakin princes
It was founded by Prince Kurakin. Previously, there was a polyclinic, a city hospital, a home for schoolchildren and pioneers. Address: Prosveshcheniya street, 3.
Mariinsky Church
It is the first building made of stone in the city; earlier in history, the building housed the factories Spartak, Tochmeh and Metalloigrushka. Address: Sadovaya Street, 17.
Where to stay in Pavlovsk, Saint Petersburg
Guests of the city can stay in private apartments or rooms. Also, there is a budget hotel “Pavlovsk” available, the price per day is about 3 thousand rubles for two-person bedroom. Those who wish to experience luxury service can stay in the «BIP» castle, the price per day starts from 12 thousand rubles.
Where to eat in Pavlovsk
You can dine in inexpensive public catering and canteens or you can choose middle and premium level restaurants.
What gifts and souvenirs to bring from Pavlovsk
You can bring traditional souvenirs from Pavlovsk, such as kitchen utensils, books, amber and malachite jewellery and interior items, as well as paintings from local artists.
