The Marble Palace, at Millionnaya Street in central St Petersburg, is a branch of the Russian Museum. Antonio Rinaldi designed it for Count Grigory Orlov, and its façades and interiors use more than 30 kinds of marble and granite. Inside, you can see the Marble Hall, other decorated rooms and collections of modern art, including works by Marc Chagall. The mix of palace architecture and changing exhibitions makes the visit most appealing if you enjoy both historic interiors and art.
A palace built for Grigory Orlov
Empress Catherine the Great commissioned the palace for Count Grigory Orlov, her political ally and favourite. Antonio Rinaldi designed the building, which was constructed between 1768 and 1785. After Orlov’s heirs, the palace became part of St Petersburg’s royal residences.
The palace stands on Millionnaya Street, between Palace Quay and the Field of Mars, near the Neva. It was one of the first buildings in St Petersburg to be clad in natural stone. The Russian Museum has operated it as a branch since 1992.
Marble in the façades and interiors
The palace takes its name from the many kinds of marble used in its construction and decoration. More than 30 varieties of marble and granite appear across the building; accounts of its materials specify 32 kinds. The stone’s different colors give the exterior and interior their distinctive appearance.
Rinaldi combined Baroque and Neoclassical elements in the design. The Marble Hall is a central highlight, with carefully worked stone and a richly decorated interior. Other rooms contain architectural details and historic decoration, though much of the original furniture is no longer there.
Art inside the Russian Museum branch
The palace’s rooms now hold historic and modern art. Its displays have included the permanent collection Foreign Artists in Russia in the Eighteenth and First Half of the Nineteenth Century, as well as works associated with the Ludwig Museum collection. Modern art collections include works by Marc Chagall and other artists.
Temporary exhibitions add another reason to visit, and the palace also hosts events and concerts. The balance between historic rooms and contemporary collections depends on what is on view, so the palace suits visitors interested in the art as well as those coming for the architecture. If you prefer historic interiors, focus your visit on the Marble Hall and the decorated rooms.
FAQ
Where is the Marble Palace?
It is at Millionnaya Street, 5/1, in central St Petersburg, between Palace Quay and the Field of Mars.
What can you see inside the Marble Palace?
The palace has the Marble Hall, decorated rooms and art collections, including modern works and temporary exhibitions.
Should you book tickets in advance?
Advance ticket booking is recommended.
