The Tsaritsyno Grand Palace is one of the main parts of the ensemble created in the 18th century. Unfortunately, this building was never used for its intended purpose, but its architectural merits are undeniable, which allows the building to be included in the list of the most significant monuments of the era, especially since it was made in two different styles. Construction was carried out for quite a long time: from 1785 to 1796
History of Creation
The original design of the building belonged to V. Bazhenov, but the empress, who examined the building, was dissatisfied, and therefore the author was removed from the leadership. Instead of him, his friend and assistant M. Kazakov was appointed, who completed the construction. The Tsaritsyno Grand Palace was designed in the style of pseudo-Gothic, but with clear features of classicism, which gained popularity by the end of the century and eventually became the standard for buildings.
The original version of the building involved the construction of a small structure,however, the new author, following the tastes of Catherine II, changed the proportions. The structure has become more voluminous, but most importantly, it has gained some heaviness in the design.
In 1790, construction was suspended due to financial difficulties due to the Russian-Turkish war. Three years later, the process resumed. However, now the Tsaritsyno Grand Palace has undergone new changes: its proportions have been reduced, which, in principle, violated the architect's intention. But soon the empress died, and the new ruler Paul I ordered the work to be completed. Thus, the building was never used for its intended purpose.
Architecture
The building is interesting because it combines different styles - pseudo-Gothic and classicism. From this point of view, the building can be conditionally called belonging to a transitional period in the history of architectural construction.
The Tsaritsyno Grand Palace consists of two wings, inside of which there are two chambers: for the Empress and her son. The middle part from the outside looks especially majestic and monumental, but the plan shows that this part, in fact, is a narrow passage between the two main chambers. Two towers made in the style of pseudo-Gothic give special elegance to the structure. The latter direction also includes lancet arches, although the shape of the windows is actually rectangular.
Additional items
Matvey Kazakov gave the building rigor and harmony of forms. The building has three facades, semi-columns andcolumns that adorn the main entrance. Some parts give the building heaviness: powerful buildings, arcades, arches. In general, the appearance is intended to demonstrate the imperial power of power, while the original project assumed greater intimacy and compactness of forms.
It should also be mentioned that initially Matvey Kazakov planned to build three floors in the palace plus a separate basement, but a few years later, at the request of the Empress, he was forced to reduce its height by one floor. As a result, the structure became squat and somewhat vague in appearance.
Reaction of contemporaries
So, the author of the Grand Tsaritsyno Palace was forced to make many changes in the course of construction, which led to a lack of unity and integrity in the appearance of the building. In 1796, a black roof was installed over it, which caused criticism from the then Russian society. Many artists noted that it makes a rather gloomy impression, despite the presence of decorations in the building.
In the second half of the 19th century, many began to note the undoubted architectural merit of the building: they said that its appearance was distinguished by festivity, and therefore many suggested removing the black roof.
Reconstruction
One of the largest palace and park ensembles of the capital is the complex in Tsaritsyno. The Grand Palace, the description of which is the subject of this review, wasrebuilt and reconstructed in 2005-2006, which caused criticism from many experts. First of all, the builders replaced the black roof with a more beautiful and elegant roof with decorations, which, in fact, became a violation of the architect's intent. Secondly, they finished the interior, which in the original version was never completed. But the floors were covered with expensive material from valuable tree species. In addition, two halls are arranged in the palace - "Catherine" and "Tauride", in which exhibitions are held. The interiors were decorated with sculptures and hung with crystal chandeliers. In addition, there is a famous monument to the Empress by A. Opekushin.
So, at present, the building houses a whole museum complex, which is dedicated to the reign of Catherine II. Despite the fact that the palace was never used for its intended purpose, nevertheless it occupies an important place in the history of Russian architecture, as it marked the transition from Gothic and traditional Moscow baroque to classicism.
