Beside a pond in Catherine Park at Tsarskoye Selo, the Grotto Pavilion is a blue Baroque building designed by Bartolomeo Francesco Rastrelli. Its sculptural details celebrate water and Neptune, while the interior has intricate stucco work and sculptures. Built for Empress Elizabeth, it later served as Catherine II’s office, where she handled diplomatic mail and held breakfast gatherings. Today, temporary exhibitions bring art and collections into the pavilion. Come for the architecture, then continue around the Great Pond to see other buildings in the park.
A pavilion beside the Great Pond
The Grotto Pavilion stands beside a pond in Catherine Park at Tsarskoye Selo, outside central St Petersburg. Bartolomeo Francesco Rastrelli designed the Baroque building, whose sculptural decoration is devoted to water and Neptune.
The pavilion was built for Empress Elizabeth. Catherine II later used it as an office, sorting diplomatic mail there and holding breakfast gatherings. Its role changed again over time: the building now hosts temporary exhibitions.
Stucco, sculptures and the park setting
Inside, look for the detailed stucco work and sculptures. A. Rinaldi reworked the stucco in 1771, and it remains a key part of the interior. The pavilion has also been used to display classical sculptures and vases.
The grounds around it include ponds, trees, trimmed bushes and garden beds. A walk around the Great Pond takes in other royal-era buildings, among them the Marble Bridge, Chinese Pavilion, Concert Hall and Turkish Bath.
FAQ
Where is the Grotto Pavilion?
It is beside a pond in Catherine Park at Tsarskoye Selo, in the St Petersburg area.
Who designed the Grotto Pavilion?
Bartolomeo Francesco Rastrelli designed the Baroque pavilion.
What can you see inside?
The interior has intricate stucco work and sculptures. Temporary exhibitions are also held there.
When is a good time to visit?
Go early in the morning for a quieter atmosphere.
