Tsarskoye Selo Guide
Imperial Residence: Explore the Town of Tsarskoye Selo Guide
Tsarskoye Selo, now known as Pushkin, is a charming town located just south of St. Petersburg. It's renowned for its imperial history, most notably as the location of the Catherine Palace and Alexander Palace, both former residences of the Russian Tsars. A visit to Tsarskoye Selo offers a captivating glimpse into the opulent world of the Romanov dynasty. The town's history is deeply intertwined with the imperial family. Peter the Great gifted the land to his wife, Catherine I, who established a modest estate. It was Empress Elizabeth, however, who transformed it into the lavish imperial residence it is known for today. Tsarskoye Selo served as a summer retreat for the Tsars and their families for centuries, witnessing significant historical events and cultural developments. After the Russian Revolution, the town was renamed Pushkin in honor of the famous poet who studied at the Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum. Beyond the Catherine and Alexander Palaces, visitors can explore the town's charming streets, visit the Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum (where Alexander Pushkin studied), and stroll through the beautiful parks. The town offers a variety of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Russian cuisine, as well as international dishes. Be sure to try some local pastries and desserts.
Transportation
The most convenient way to reach Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin) from St. Petersburg is by suburban train (elektrichka) from Vitebsky Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a marshrutka (minibus) from Moskovskaya metro station. Several marshrutkas serve the route, look for numbers that indicate 'Pushkin' or 'Tsarskoye Selo'.