Alexander Pushkin and Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin)
Alexander Pushkin, Russia's greatest poet and founder of modern Russian literature, studied at the Imperial Lyceum in Tsarskoye Selo. This period shaped his genius. Due to his profound cultural legacy, Tsarskoye Selo was renamed Pushkin in 1937 — marking the 100th anniversary of his death.
The Catherine Palace
The estate's centerpiece is the Catherine Palace, named after Empress Catherine I (Peter the Great's wife). Empress Catherine II later expanded and lavishly decorated it, transforming it into one of Russia's most opulent imperial residences.
The Amber Room: Eighth Wonder of the World
The palace's most famous feature is the Amber Room, with walls entirely clad in amber panels, gold leaf, and mirrors. Lost during World War II, it was meticulously reconstructed, blending breathtaking beauty with dramatic history.
What is Amber?
Amber is fossilized tree resin, millions of years old, prized since ancient times for its warm glow, natural beauty, and ability to preserve ancient plants and insects. Most of the Amber Room's amber hails from the Baltic region.
