Mikhailovsky Castle

The construction of the castle on the water began in 1797 by decree of Emperor Paul I and was carried out for three years. The structure is made in the form of a square with rounded corners, with an internal octagonal courtyard in the center. The northern facade, facing the waters of the Moika River, is decorated with a wide stucco belt along the cornice. Above the central entrance with a wide staircase is an open gallery supported by massive columns. On the sides of the staircase are statues of Hercules and Flora, completed by a tall attic with stucco ornaments. The main facade is decorated with columns and a high Ionic portico with a stucco painting.