The Catherine Palace, located in Tsarskoye Selo, Russia, is a magnificent palace with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It was originally built for Empress Elizabeth, daughter of Peter the Great, and later expanded and renovated by Empress Catherine II, also known as Catherine the Great. The palace is a popular tourist destination, known for its opulent interiors and stunning gardens. One of the most iconic rooms in the palace is the Green Dining Room, which has been the setting for many important events and gatherings throughout history. Let's explore the top 10 reasons why the Catherine Palace Green Dining Room should be on your must-see list. The History of the Catherine Palace Green Dining Room
The Green Dining Room is one of the largest and most impressive rooms in the Catherine Palace, measuring 21 meters in length and 14 meters in width. It is located on the ground floor of the palace and is accessible from the main staircase. The room is adorned with intricate gilded details, crystal chandeliers, and exquisite paintings on the ceiling. The walls are covered in green silk fabric, hence the name "Green Dining Room." This combination of grandeur and elegance makes it a must-see for any visitor to the palace. The Grandeur of the Catherine Palace Dining Room
The Green Dining Room has been the setting for many important events throughout history. It was regularly used for formal banquets and receptions hosted by the Russian royal family. The room has witnessed many momentous occasions, such as the coronation of Emperor Alexander III and the signing of the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk. Today, the room is still used for official state receptions and other important events. A Royal Setting for Important Occasions
At the center of the Green Dining Room stands the iconic green ceremonial table. It is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, made from a single piece of malachite, a precious green stone. The table is adorned with gold and silver details, including a large gold eagle, the emblem of the Russian Empire. It is said that Empress Catherine II personally selected the malachite stone for the table, making it a unique and valuable piece of furniture. The Iconic Green Ceremonial Table
The ceiling of the Green Dining Room is covered with stunning paintings that depict scenes from Greek mythology. These paintings were created by the Italian artist Giovanni Battista Scotti in the 18th century. Each painting is surrounded by intricate stucco decorations, adding to the grandeur of the room. The combination of the green walls, crystal chandeliers, and these beautiful paintings make for a truly breathtaking sight. The Paintings on the Ceiling
The floor of the Green Dining Room is also a work of art. It is made of parquet wood and features intricate patterns and designs. The wood used for the floor is a combination of oak, maple, and cherry, creating a beautiful contrast of colors. The patterns on the floor are so precise and detailed that they almost look like a painting. It is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans who worked on the palace. The Intricate Floor Patterns
One interesting feature of the Green Dining Room is the hidden passage behind one of the walls. This passage was used by the Russian royal family to secretly move between rooms without being seen by their guests. It was also used for storage and to hide valuable items during times of war. Today, visitors can explore this hidden passage and get a glimpse of the palace's secrets. The Hidden Passage
The Green Dining Room's grandeur and elegance have inspired many designers and architects throughout the years. The room's color scheme and intricate details have been replicated in many modern interior designs, making it a timeless and influential space. It is a testament to the enduring beauty and design of the Catherine Palace. The Green Dining Room's Influence on Modern Design
In the 1940s, during World War II, the Catherine Palace was severely damaged by the German army. The Green Dining Room was one of the most affected rooms, and it took years to restore it to its former glory. The restoration process was carried out with great care and attention to detail, using original materials and techniques. Today, visitors can see the room in all its splendor, thanks to the hard work and dedication of restoration experts. The Green Dining Room's Restoration
Today, the Green Dining Room is a popular tourist attraction, visited by thousands of people every year. It is a symbol of the grandeur and opulence of the Russian royal family and a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship of the artisans who worked on the palace. The room's rich history, stunning interiors, and iconic features make it a must-see for anyone interested in Russian history and culture. The Green Dining Room Today