Hermitage Pavilion
An 18th-century Baroque pavilion in Peterhof, famous for its ingenious lifting table and opulent gilded apartments.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the lifting table in action
Hermitage Pavilion
Best Time
See the lifting table in action
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18th-century Baroque pavilion in Peterhof, famous for its ingenious lifting table and opulent gilded apartments.
"You have to stay in a queue and pay separately for it about 400 roubles for adults and 100 for children."
🎯 Book Lifting Table Tour
Ensure your tour includes the lifting table demonstration; ask specifically when booking.
🗣️ Language Considerations
Tours are primarily in Russian; confirm English availability if needed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Lifting Table
Main Dining Hall
Witness the ingenious 18th-century table that descends to a lower level, allowing for discreet service without disturbing guests.
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Sumptuous Gilded Apartments
Interior Halls
Explore lavishly decorated rooms adorned with gold leaf, intricate carvings, and opulent furnishings from the Baroque era.
Baroque Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the elegant Baroque style of this 18th-century pavilion, a testament to imperial grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Understand the Hermitage Pavilion's Purpose
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Lifting Table Tour
Ensure your tour includes the lifting table demonstration; ask specifically when booking.
🗣️ Language Considerations
Tours are primarily in Russian; confirm English availability if needed.
💰 Affordable Entry
Considered very well-maintained and reasonably priced for the experience.
🚶 Arrive Early
Beat the queues and secure a spot for popular tours, especially the table sessions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Lifting Table Tour
Ensure your tour includes the lifting table demonstration; ask specifically when booking.
🗣️ Language Considerations
Tours are primarily in Russian; confirm English availability if needed.
💰 Affordable Entry
Considered very well-maintained and reasonably priced for the experience.
🚶 Arrive Early
Beat the queues and secure a spot for popular tours, especially the table sessions.
🏛️ Separate Tickets
Entry to the Pavilion and its specific tours require separate tickets from general park admission.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hermitage Pavilion as a beautiful and interesting excursion, particularly highlighting the amazing mechanical lifting tables. While tours are primarily in Russian, the experience is considered well-maintained and affordable, offering a fairy-tale-like glimpse into history. Some note the need to specifically request the table demonstration.
"Absolutely beautiful place and very interesting excursion, but only in Russian language. You have to stay in a queue and pay separately for it about 400 roubles for adults and 100 for children. You can see the amazing mechanical lifting tables in action, but make sure to ask to see that, as they have have separate excursions with and without the show."
Leria
"Super kind workers and police men there, I’ve been in the E.Palace for 3 times and now the first time in the garden! Whats a trip surprise!! Amazing building with sufficient dining zone!"
Tatiana Becker-Strelnikova
"Start with it! And make it to the lifting table session. At the beginning of the tour you will watch a video which is very helpful to understand Catherine’s palace. I am so impressed by this Hermitage!"
Zen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hermitage Pavilion is located within the Peterhof Lower Park. You can reach Peterhof by hydrofoil from St. Petersburg or by public transport. Once in Peterhof, follow signs for the Lower Park and then for the Hermitage Pavilion.
No, the Hermitage Pavilion is a separate historical building located in Peterhof, distinct from the main Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg.
Yes, the Hermitage Pavilion is situated in the Lower Park of Peterhof, and you can walk to it from other attractions like the Grand Cascade.
Many visitors opt for the hydrofoil from St. Petersburg, which offers scenic views. Alternatively, buses and marshrutkas (minibuses) are available.
Parking is available in Peterhof, but it's often easier and more pleasant to use public transport or hydrofoils to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you typically need to purchase a separate ticket for the Hermitage Pavilion, in addition to your entrance ticket for the Peterhof Lower Park.
The cost is around 400 roubles for adults and 100 roubles for children, making it a relatively affordable visit.
It's advisable to check the official Peterhof website for online ticket purchasing options to save time.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Peterhof website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand the history and see the lifting table in action.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The most famous feature is the ingenious 'lifting table' mechanism, which allowed for discreet service during banquets.
Tours usually include a video explaining Catherine's Palace and a demonstration of the lifting table, along with a walk through the opulent apartments.
Children can find the lifting table fascinating. The historical context and opulent decor might be more engaging for older children.
A guided tour usually lasts about an hour, but allow extra time for exploring the surrounding park.
The pavilion itself is a beautiful example of 18th-century Baroque architecture, with sumptuously decorated gilded apartments.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary, but generally, photos are allowed in many areas, though flash photography might be restricted. Always check for signage.
The gilded apartments and the lifting table mechanism itself are prime photo opportunities. The exterior architecture is also picturesque.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical parks and near imperial residences. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
Given the potentially dim lighting in some areas, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod (if allowed) would be beneficial.
Similar to photography, filming might be permitted in certain areas. Check for specific regulations regarding video recording.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the historical context might be complex, the visual spectacle of the table in action can hold their attention. Consider booking a tour that explicitly mentions the table demonstration and try to arrive early to ensure a good view. The surrounding Peterhof Lower Park also offers plenty of space for children to run around and enjoy the fountains, making it a good complement to the pavilion visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
The lifting table is a prime example of the era's ingenuity and the desire for discreet luxury. +1Delving into the history of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna and the pavilion's role as a private retreat will enrich the visit. The Baroque architecture and the preserved opulent interiors provide a direct connection to this historical period.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ingenious Lifting Table
+1This technological marvel was designed to facilitate intimate gatherings for Empress Elizabeth Petrovna and her select courtiers. It reflects a desire for both luxury and discretion in imperial entertaining. Seeing this table in action is a highlight for many visitors and offers a unique glimpse into the sophisticated lifestyle of the Russian aristocracy.
+1When visiting, it's crucial to book a tour that specifically includes the demonstration of the lifting table. Some tours may focus more on the history and architecture, while others will showcase this unique mechanical wonder.
Baroque Grandeur and Imperial History
These sumptuously decorated rooms were designed for entertaining a narrow circle of courtiers, reflecting a period of lavish imperial life. The intricate details, rich fabrics, and ornate furnishings transport visitors back in time, offering a tangible connection to the history of figures like Empress Elizabeth Petrovna.
While the pavilion is smaller than some of Peterhof's other palaces, its historical significance and artistic merit make it a captivating stop. Understanding its role as a secluded retreat for entertainment adds depth to the visitor experience.
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