Imperial Palace in the Kremlin. Grand Kremlin Palace. What is included in the Grand Kremlin Palace

The museum-apartment of Nikolai Semenovich Golovanov (1891–1953), a great conductor, composer and pianist, traces its history back to 1969, when, after the death of the musician’s sister, this apartment became part of the Russian national museum music.

The basis of the funds was the rich heritage of the musician: his
collections of paintings, sculpture, applied art, library, archive and music library. Over the years, the value of this heritage has steadily increased.

Golovanov’s very status as a conductor and composer has changed: now this master is recognized as great. The amazing concentration of spirituality, creative energy, and the true scope of his creativity are striking. His personality is also attractive, first of all, his loyalty to the high moral principles laid down from childhood and his uncompromising, selfless service to art.

The conductor’s memorial apartment with its various rarities is also amazing for its concentration of spiritual values. The house itself in Bryusov Lane, in which it is located, is a cultural monument. It belonged to the Bolshoi Theater. Since 1935, such luminaries of Moscow vocal art as A. V. Nezhdanova, N. A. Obukhova, I. S. Kozlovsky, A. S. Pirogov, M. P. Maksakova lived here. Golovanov lived here for about twenty years (1935–1953). It was during these years, heading the orchestra of the All-Union Radio and later the Bolshoi Theater, that he became a leading figure in the musical life of Moscow. Three rooms of this apartment (study, living room, dining room) are memorial. Here, almost every object remembers Golovanov. And in the former bedroom, archive materials are concentrated, allowing one to trace the musician’s path.

The initial stage was studying at the Synodal School of Church Singing (1900–1909), which took place under the guidance of such masters as choirmasters V. S. Orlov, N. M. Danilin, composers P. G. Chesnokov, A. D. Kastalsky, Vikt. S. Kalinnikov. Golovanov wrote in his declining years: “The Synodal School gave me everything: moral principles, principles of life, iron discipline, the ability to work hard and systematically, instilled in me a sacred love of work.”

The next stage is studying at the Moscow Conservatory in the class of composition and theory with S. N. Vasilenko and A. A. Ilyinsky. At the same time, Golovanov did not lose contact with the Synodal School, becoming its teacher and assistant regent of the famous Synodal Choir. From 1915 until almost last days– work at the Bolshoi Theater (albeit with three forced breaks). These were the culminating years in the life of the theater. Under the direction of Golovanov and his eminent “team” (artist F. F. Fedorovsky, directors L. V. Baratov, B. A. Pokrovsky and other outstanding masters), such masterpieces were created as productions of “Boris Godunov”, “Sadko”, “ Khovanshchina" 1948–1950.

No less effective is Golovanov’s leadership of the Big Radio Symphony Orchestra. His activities in Moscow during the Great Patriotic War were especially important. Patriotic War. Live broadcasts of the orchestra’s performances lifted the spirits of even people far from music. In a photograph from 1943, we see the conductor during the first performance in the USSR of S. V. Rachmaninov’s Third Symphony. The exhibition also reflects Golovanov’s composing work over the years, from piano variations of his childhood to spiritual chants of the 1940s.

A special section is dedicated to the long-term union of Golovanov with A.V. Nezhdanova: the musician was the accompanist and husband of the great singer. Entering the memorial rooms of the Museum, visitors are immediately immersed in the world of art. Paintings by first-class artists (I. I. Levitan, M. V. Nesterov, K. A. Korovin and many others), sculptural portraits, antique furniture in the Empire style, stucco on the ceilings - everything creates a unique atmosphere. At the same time, Golovanov’s “handwriting” is felt. Already in the layout of the apartment, features of theatricality are visible: the living room correlates with the office, like a theater hall and stage. The doors with bronze mythological figures are also remarkable. Although the genres and themes of paintings and sculptures presented in the memorial rooms are varied, each room has its own dominant features. The study is the most “musical” room. There are many portraits of composers, conductors, as well as figures of art and literature. In the living room, a significant place is occupied by images related to religious themes and images that embody the ideals of female beauty. The dominant theme in the dining room is travel in time and space: Russia and England, Italy and Egypt, India and the fabulous Berendey kingdom, deep antiquity and the 20th century. They come to life on paintings architectural masterpieces world - the Taj Mahal mausoleum painted by V.V. Vereshchagin, Pskov Kremlin by V.V. Meshkov, Venetian Palace doges in the painting by I.K. Aivazovsky.

And another attraction of the Museum is its visitors in the past and present. After all, Golovanov was visited by many outstanding musicians and artists. The owner of the apartment loved to organize a feast on holidays and memorable days. The regulars were the singers of the Bolshoi Theater who lived in the same house - Obukhova, Maksakova, Pirogov, Kozlovsky... And after the opening of the Museum (1974), conductors B. E. Khaikin, K. P. Kondrashin, G. N. Rozhdestvensky, F. Sh. Mansurov, Yu. I. Simonov. Among the concert visitors are composer V. A. Gavrilin, ballerina E. S. Maksimova, singer Z. A. Dolukhanova. And at the present time, the Museum has a lot of things that attract conductors, professional musicians, art connoisseurs, music lovers, and a wide range of people seeking to touch the world of beauty.

In 1838, on Borovitsky Hill, on the initiative of Nicholas I, they began to build the Great Kremlin Palace on the site of the dismantled palaces of Ivan III and Elizabeth Petrovna. Construction was completed in 1849. Almost a hundred years before that, attempts were made to create a new palace. Thus, in 1768, the architect Bazhenov presented his model of the building, located from the bank of the Moscow River throughout Borovitsky Hill. In 1770, part of the Kremlin wall was broken and in 1773 a new residence was solemnly founded. But a year later it was decided that such grandiose project inappropriate and construction was stopped. The destroyed Kremlin wall was restored and the building of the Moscow Senate was built instead of a pompous palace.

But the start of construction in 1812 again showed the need to build a palace in honor of the renewal of Moscow.

A group of specialists was invited to work on the project: Bakarev, Gerasimova, Rikhnet, Chichagova. The project was headed by architect K.A. Ton, the author of the project of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and the founder of the so-called Byzantine-Russian style.

According to the authors' idea, the Palace complex, which would later be called the Grand Kremlin Palace, was supposed to include, in addition to the largest building, part of the surviving structures of the royal residence - the Golden Tsarina Chamber, the Pomegranate Chamber, house churches and the Terem Palace.

Chief architect Ton did not seek to build an innovative complex of structures; he took as a basis the layout and architectural elements of familiar historical buildings that were already familiar to Muscovites. But during construction, the most advanced and modern techniques and technologies were used, for example, lightweight brick vaults, new roof structures, cement and other most innovative building materials for that time.

Only in 1851, after the construction of the Armory Chamber and Apartments, connected by an air passage with the palace complex, the Grand Kremlin Palace became a single architectural ensemble worthy of the imperial family and became one of the wonders of the city for Muscovites and foreigners.

The main façade of the building faces the river and from this angle it appears to have three floors, although in fact it has only two floors. The first floor looks like a closed gallery, the base is framed with natural stone, the second floor is decorated with carved window frames made of white stone. In the center of the palace there is a tribune with a gilded balustrade, on one side of which there is a working clock to this day, and on the other - the hour bells. Near the main entrance there is a lobby with marble columns. The total length of the Kremlin Palace is 125 m, its area is 25,000 sq. m. m., and the height is 47 m.

The palace complex includes about 700 premises for various purposes, including 5 order halls, reception rooms in the Front Half, residential premises in the Own Half, office premises ground floor, entrance hall with grand staircase.

We can talk endlessly about interiors and interior decoration. It is not for nothing that the palace is called the museum of Russian ceremonial interior. The palace is rightly called the museum of Russian palace interior. The decoration is eclectic - from Renaissance elements to Byzantine style. At the same time, any of its elements amazes with its subtlety, grace and quality of work, original taste and quality of execution.

Each palace hall is a work of architecture and art in its own way, but true connoisseurs of architecture consider the St. George's Hall to be the most majestic. It is in it that marble plaques of memory are located with the names of military personnel awarded the most revered Russian award - the Order of St. St. George the Victorious. Among the recipients were such historical figures as Mikhail Kutuzov, Alexander Suvorov and Pyotr Bagration. This sixty-meter white and gold hall, with huge bronze chandeliers and powerful pylons, truly leaves unforgettable impression. In addition, it is here that there are marble statues by the sculptor Ivan Vitali and bas-reliefs depicting St. George and the serpent by Pavel Kladsch. In Russian history, this particular hall plays an important role - cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin was welcomed here, and participants in the Victory Parade were received here in 1945.

The Vladimir Hall received its name in honor of the Order of St. Vladimir. The hall is made in the shape of an octagon, lined with pink marble and, in addition to a huge bronze chandelier, has additional lighting through the dome. From this hall you can get to the Terem Palace, the Pomegranate Chamber and many other rooms of the palace.

The Meeting Hall is the largest room in the palace complex. It appeared only in 1933 in connection with the unification of the Alexander and St. Andrew's halls. Windows facing the Moscow River, 1615 sq. m. area, capacity up to 3000 visitors - they made this particular hall in Soviet time place of meetings of the Supreme Council of the USSR.

The Catherine Hall is a very cozy and beautiful room in the front half of the palace, which received its name in honor of the only Russian women's order. In the past, it was the throne room of Russian empresses. Gilded chandeliers, gray moiré walls, decorations made from pieces of malachite, thin crystal candelabra - everything here is of great historical and artistic value.

After the Catherine Hall, you can get to the State Living Room and the State Bedchamber, which today are a real museum of imperial life of the 19th century. A fireplace lined with jasper, columns made of greenish marble, heavy monolithic furniture - all this emphasizes the nobility of the decoration of the premises intended for high-ranking government officials.

The last room of the Front half of the palace is the Walnut dressing room, the decoration of which uses walnut wood panels.

The own half of the palace with the living quarters of the emperor and his family located in it is also an example of sophistication and interior masterpiece. A mixture of Baroque, Rococo, and Classicism styles make the seven rooms of the Own Half a conceptually unified whole. The Emperor's office, the Empress's office, bedroom, boudoir, dining room, reception room, living room - each room had its own decoration.

The dining room is decorated with artificial stone and statues of mythological heroes. In the remaining rooms of this half of the palace you can see a lot of porcelain objects, unique chandeliers, furniture of soft shapes, curved outlines, many huge mirrors, pompous inlays and stucco patterns, parquet and doors made of precious wood with unique patterns.

Currently, the entire ensemble of the Grand Kremlin Palace, with the exception of the Armory Chamber, which is a museum, is the Presidential Residence Russian Federation. It is here that important state meetings at the highest level, award ceremonies, and diplomatic receptions are held.

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I don’t think that you have to visit the Grand Kremlin Palace every day. Therefore, we have a unique opportunity to see not only this building from the outside, but also to visit its beautiful halls. And I must say, it’s amazing.

The Great Kremlin Palace - a monumental yellow building with white platbands, a facade overlooking the Moscow River, stretching from west to east for 125 meters, was built by order of Emperor Nicholas I as a palace-monument to Russian history and the glory of the Russian army. In 1838-1849 it was built by Russian architects D.N. Chichalov, P.A. Gerasimov, A.N. Bakarev, F. Richter and others under the leadership of K.A. Ton. The palace was the temporary residence of the imperial family during its stay in Moscow. From the outside façade, the palace looks three-story, but actually consists of two floors. The ground floor projects forward and forms an open terrace above. Arched windows separated by narrow partitions give it the appearance of an enclosed gallery. The base is lined with natural stone. The two-tier facade of the second floor is divided by pilasters and completely decorated with carved white stone window frames in the style of Russian architecture of the 17th century. All photos and comments for them gborisova

Door portal of St. Andrew's Hall. St. Andrew's Order Order of St. Andrew the First-Called, the eldest of the Russian orders, established by Emperor Peter I in 1698 in the name of St. Apostle Andrew the First-Called, St. Baptism originally enlightened our borders. The Imperial Order of St. Andrew the First-Called has only one degree. Its signs are as follows: 1) a blue cross in a double-headed eagle crowned with three crowns, representing St. crucified on it. Apostle Andrew and having Latin letters at the four ends: - S. A. P. R., meaning: Sanctus Andreas Patronus Russiae, and on the other side, in the middle of the eagle, a charter on which the order’s motto is written: “for faith and fidelity”; 2) a silver star, having in the middle, in a golden field, a double-headed eagle, crowned with three crowns, and in the middle of the eagle there is a St. Andrew's cross; in a circle, in a blue field, at the top is the order's motto in gold letters, and at the bottom are two connected laurel branches; the star is worn on the left side; 3) blue ribbon over the right shoulder; and on the order's holiday and other days, when the cavaliers will be ordered to be in full attire, instead of a ribbon there will be an order cross on a gold chain.

When conferring the order on non-Christians, an image of St. The Apostle, his name and the cross are replaced by the image of the Imperial Russian Eagle. The signs awarded for military exploits are accompanied by two swords lying crosswise. The order's attire consists of: 1) A long, green velvet cap, lined with white taffeta with silver eyes, tied in silver. cords, with the same tassels; on its left side there is a more ordinary star embroidered; 2) supervest white glazet, with gold braid, the same fringe and with a cross sewn on the chest; 3) a black velvet hat, with a red feather and the cross of St. Andrew the Apostle, sewn from a narrow blue ribbon. The gentlemen of this order are all considered to be in the third class, even if they were in the service below this class, and at the same time they are made knights of St. Alexander Nevsky, the White Eagle and St. Anna of the 1st class, even if they did not have such before. - The cavaliers celebrate the day of the establishment of this order - November 30, and the order was given a cathedral named after him on Vasilyevsky Island. Petersburg are under the special care and care of the gentlemen of this order. and Moscow educational homes (St. Z. t. I, Uchr. Ord. art. 291 et seq.). Encyclopedic Dictionary F.A. Brockhaus and I.A. Efron. - St. Petersburg: Brockhaus-Efron. 1890-1907.

St. Andrew's Hall has been the main one in the palace since its construction. On its eastern side are three throne seats under ermine canopies. All parts of the royal seat: the canopy, the steps of the footstools and the thrones are covered with precious gold brocade. The canopy inside is upholstered with ermine fur (today the ermine on the royal mantle is artificial - the old mantle that covered the thrones was sold in 1925). There are three throne seats. During the coronation of Emperor Nicholas II, they were intended for the emperor, empress and dowager empress - Nicholas's mother.

The imperial throne is shaded by a tent, with an entrance of six steps. On the ceiling of the tent is the state emblem of the Russian Empire - a double-headed eagle.

St. Andrew's Throne Hall During the coronation celebrations, the Emperor and Empress received congratulations in St. Andrew's Hall. Representatives of different nationalities, classes and religions were invited to Moscow from all over the country. The Emperor and Empress greeted them standing. The throne room of Russian emperors amazes with its size and dazzling luxury. The cross vaults rest on 10 tetrahedral columns, forming three naves. The vaults, columns and pylons are covered with gilded stucco in the form of a floral pattern. And the capitals are decorated with the sign of the order - a double-headed eagle, against which there is a blue cross with the image of a crucified apostle. The walls are covered with silk moire, decorated with chains and the sign of the Order. On the frieze of the longitudinal walls there are 48 titular coats of arms of Russian monarchs. “For faith and fidelity” is the motto of this order.

Dome of the Vladimir Hall. The Vladimir Hall is named after the Order of St. Vladimir. Order of St. Vladimir was dedicated to the holy Prince Vladimir, popularly called the “Red Sun”, who brought the light of Christ to Rus'. The Order was established in 1782 as a reward for outstanding achievements in military and civil service, as well as for long service. The motto of the order is “Benefit, honor and glory.” The two-height St. Vladimir Hall, octagonal in layout, unlike the St. George Hall, is illuminated by overhead light through the dome. The vault of the Vladimir Hall resembles tents, and the arches of the bypass side galleries seem to repeat the outlines of ancient arches. The dome is crowned with a light lantern. In the evening, the hall is illuminated by a huge gilded bronze chandelier.

St. George's Hall is the largest main hall throughout the palace: length 61 m, width 20.5 m, height 17.5 m. The combination of white and gold creates a feeling of solemnity with its simplicity. Powerful pylons support the vaulted ceiling, decorated with stucco in the form of floral patterns and rosettes. All eighteen pylons are topped with marble statues (sculptor Ivan Vitali) - allegorically symbolizing the regions and kingdoms that make up the multinational state. Structurally, each pylon consists of a tall hollow zinc column, decorated with stucco and topped with a capital of the Corinthian order. On the southern and northern walls there are bas-reliefs depicting St. George and the snake (sculptor Pavel Kladsh). The parquet floor resembles a gigantic patterned carpet. The floor is laid out with a pattern of more than 20 different types of wood - birch, ash, Indian rosewood, plane tree, plane tree, etc. In the evenings, the hall is illuminated by six bronze gilded openwork chandeliers. Each weighing 1300 kg. and 40 wall lights. The signs of St. George were: a gold and white enamel cross with the image of George slaying the serpent, a black and orange ribbon and a gold star with the motto “For service and courage.” Signs of the Order decorate the upper part of the walls of St. George's Hall. The names of the St. George Knights and the names of regular military units awarded this order are inscribed in gold on the wall plaques. They were awarded to soldiers and officers for bravery and courage shown in battle, and for length of service: 25 years in the army and 18 in the navy. Over the entire existence of the order, it was awarded to over 11 thousand heroes. At the solemn consecration of the palace in April 1849, Metropolitan Philaret of Moscow said: “The palace of St. George the Victorious should become a temple of the glory of the victorious Russian army.” This hall has witnessed many historical events.

The signs of St. George were: a gold and white enamel cross with the image of George slaying the serpent, a black and orange ribbon and a gold star with the motto “For service and courage.” Signs of the Order decorate the upper part of the walls of St. George's Hall. During ceremonial receptions, officers gathered, on whose chests were the same signs that decorate the walls of the hall. On the walls of the St. George's Hall there are marble plaques with the names of 545 regiments, naval crews and batteries carved in gold letters and more than 10 thousand names of officers and generals who were awarded the Order of St. George, among them such names as: Suvorov, Kutuzov, Ushakov, Nakhimov. At the solemn consecration of the palace in April 1849, Metropolitan Philaret of Moscow said: “The palace of St. George the Victorious should become a temple of the glory of the victorious Russian army.” The original parquet flooring from 1845 has been preserved in the St. George's Hall. More than 20 valuable types of wood from South-East Asia And South America. This hall hosts international conferences, diplomatic and government receptions, and award ceremonies of orders and medals.

This is one of the most impressive halls of the Kremlin Palace. Large and solemn, it is named after the Order of St. George the Victorious, established in 1769 by Empress Catherine II and which became the highest award in the Russian army. The Holy Great Martyr has long been revered in Rus' as the personification of military valor. Under Tsar Fyodor Ioannovich, there was even a certain prototype of this order. A coin with the image of St. George the Victorious was awarded to soldiers for bravery. At that time it was worn on a sleeve or on a hat. St. George the Victorious, in addition, has been considered the patron saint of Moscow since ancient times. Since its foundation, the image of the saint adorned the coat of arms of the ancient capital, and later became part of the coat of arms of Russia. At the solemn consecration of the palace in April 1849, Metropolitan Philaret of Moscow said: “The palace of St. George the Victorious should become a temple of the glory of the victorious Russian army.” On the walls of the St. George's Hall are depicted golden stars and insignia of the order with the motto “For service and bravery.” The names of 545 regiments, naval crews and batteries and more than 10 thousand names of officers and generals awarded the Order of St. George the Victorious are carved on the marble slabs. Among them are the names of field marshals A.V. Suvorov, M.I. Kutuzov, General P.I. Bagration, admirals F.F. Ushakov, P.S. Nakhimov. On both sides of the hall there are 18 twisted columns topped with allegorical statues of victories. The ceiling is decorated with stucco in the form of floral patterns and rosettes. The parquet floor of the hall is exceptional in its beauty and virtuosity. It is lined with a pattern of 20 different types of wood - birch, ash, Indian rosewood, plane tree, plane tree, etc. In the semicircles of the transverse walls are high-relief sculptures of St. George on a horse by the sculptor Peter Klodt.

The Alexander Hall, into which gilded doors lead from the St. George's Hall, is huge: 31.5 meters in length, 21 in width and 20 in height. In the design of this hall, architect Konstantin Ton used elements characteristic of Byzantine-Russian architecture. Prince Alexander of Novgorod, patron of the Order of St. Alexander Nevsky, a state award of the Russian Empire from 1725 to 1917, established by Catherine I, was famous for his piety and courage. The motto of the Order “For Labor and the Fatherland” was later placed on the star.

The dome of the Alexander Hall is a hemisphere that rests on massive pylons. In its molded gilded kortushki there are signs of the Order: a cross and a star with the monogram of S.A. On the sides is the state emblem - a double-headed eagle with a royal crown, scepter and orb. A house where the world has astonishment...a green red house, cunningly created by the Honesty of the kingdoms, molded together. Its beauty is powerfully comparable to Solomon’s beautiful coat... Gold shines brightly everywhere, The royal house of being shows beauty. I always look at the writings, I learn many wonderful stories... The four parts of the world are written, Aki are cunningly sculptured on copper... Buslaev F.I. Historical anthology of the Church Slavonic and Old Russian languages. M., 1861. P. 1197.

Entrance to St. Andrew's throne room. The parquet in the halls of the palace was made in 1843 by Moscow craftsmen. Its contemporaries called it beautiful, durable and elegant at the same time. Exquisite patterns and weaves of parquet design resemble a real woven carpet. In March 1960, Peter Moller, a professor at the Academy of Arts, proposed painting a painting on the theme of the life of St. Alexander Nevsky, patron of the Order. Six historical paintings were created and mounted in the upper niches of the end sides of the hall: on the western side - the military exploits of the prince, on the eastern - scenes from his peaceful life: a builder of monasteries, an enlightened and wise ruler.

Ceiling vaults of the Alexander Hall Sail vaults, decorated with order insignia, carry a spherical dome with the same insignia, framed by state emblems in triangular patterns on four sides. A house where the world has astonishment...a green red house, cunningly created by the Honesty of the kingdoms, molded together. Its beauty is powerfully comparable to Solomon’s beautiful coat... Gold shines brightly everywhere, The royal house of being shows beauty. I always look at the writings, I learn many wonderful stories... The four parts of the world are written, Aki are cunningly sculptured on copper... Buslaev F.I. Historical anthology of the Church Slavonic and Old Russian languages. M., 1861. P. 1197.

The huge, two-tier windows of the Alexander Hall face south and literally flood all the rooms with light reflected in numerous mirrors. White and pink artificial marble is used to decorate the walls. The furniture is upholstered in red velvet in the color of the order ribbon. On the walls between the twisted columns are the coats of arms of the lands that were part of the Russian Empire.

The carved massive doors are decorated with order crosses. In the 19th century, the main hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace was the St. Andrew's (throne) hall. In the mid-90s of the 20th century, St. Andrew's Hall was restored to its original splendor. The hall is decorated with 10 gilded pylons and gilded doors with order crosses and chains of the St. Andrew's Order, established by Emperor Peter I. The walls are covered with blue, the color of the St. Andrew's ribbon, silk moiré, decorated with chains and signs of the order. The coats of arms of the provinces and regions of Russia are placed above the windows. The dome of the hall is noteworthy, into the complex molded gilded patterns of which are woven order insignia with the motto “Benefit. Honor. Glory".

In addition, you have the opportunity to get acquainted with other halls of the Grand Kremlin Palace. Hall of the inauguration of the President of Russia! Red Porch. I am proud of the beauty, craftsmen, history and Russia!

"The earth begins
as you know, from the Kremlin"
(c) V. Mayakovsky.

How many different palaces have we visited on our travels? But the most important thing in hometown- The Grand Kremlin Palace remained completely unattainable for us. In the Kremlin you can officially visit the Armory Chamber, the Diamond Fund, cathedrals, but for some reason the beautiful Grand Kremlin Palace is not on the visit list. Strange. Delegations of all kinds of foreigners and separate excursions for some organizations are taken there, apparently to raise the level of patriotism. We always dreamed of going there and as soon as we had the opportunity to visit the BKD, we gladly took advantage of this opportunity. The object is secure. That’s why you can shoot here, but not here. What this is connected with is again unclear. But those are the rules. As a result, it was possible to film in the state rooms of the Faceted Chamber, but not on the ground floor or in the Terem Palace. But what he saw was still amazing.
1. The Grand Kremlin Palace is one of the most massive buildings inside the Kremlin. Construction of the palace began at the same time as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. Its construction was completed in 1849. The palace was supposed to symbolize the new Moscow. However, the old Kremlin buildings were not lost as a result of large construction. And as a result, the Grand Kremlin Palace is connected to the Terem Palace and the Palace of Facets and forms one whole with them.

2. Let's start with the Chamber of Facets. Here in the distance are the doors that lead to the Red Porch.

3. And this room itself is the Holy Entrance. By the way, the Chamber of Facets was restored in 2012 and now appears before visitors in all its splendor. By the way, does anyone know what that thing is on the right side of the wall? Maybe these are the air ducts of the ventilation or heating system.

4. Beautiful painting and gilding all around - it looks very rich.

By the way, here is an archival photo. Here you can see that the current parquet is much more interesting than in the photo from the beginning of the last century.

5. Paintings in arches on religious themes. It is surprising that in the time of Peter I the paintings were painted over and the vaults were covered with a rag with the image of a double-headed eagle.

6. A little more parquet.

7. There are very beautiful chandeliers here.

8. And door handles.

9. The door portals are also very richly decorated.

10. Chamber of Facets. All the walls are painted here. It can be seen, by the way, that the walls in the room are quite thick.

11. In the middle of the chamber there is a pillar on which the ceiling vaults rest.

12. The vaults themselves are also richly painted.

13. Very beautiful. By the way, the carpet on the floor is also a restored authentic part of the interior.

Here is the reception in honor of the coronation of Alexander III. The royal place attracts attention. A kind of podium with a canopy.

Here's another interesting thing. The interior before restoration of its historical appearance. The walls are draped, the vaults are whitewashed. Around the pillar are shelves with dishes.

And here is the same interior after restoration. Even the royal place looks different.

14. Now there is no royal place in the interior; most likely it was lost in Soviet times, since the chamber was used for receptions in modern times. But the lamps remained authentic.

15. In general, the Chamber of Facets is a special place. For example, the coronation of Alexander III was celebrated here, meetings of the boyar duma were held here, and the capture of Kazan in 1552 was also celebrated here. A place with a lot of history.

16. The painting on the lower part of the walls also looks very cool, as if it were covered with fabric.

17. Very, very beautiful authentic lamps. Fine work.

18. I understand that the paintings on the walls mainly tell about scenes from the life of the king.

19. Another general view of the room. By the way, the hall is not that big. Many people now rent premises or more to celebrate weddings.

20. However, as I already said, this place is not simple, but with history. By the way, the pattern of the carpet is clearly visible here. In general, the Faceted Chamber looks very authentic... in the old Russian way, so to speak. It was very interesting to visit here.

21. We leave the Faceted Chamber and passing through the Holy Entrance Hall we find ourselves in the Vladimir Hall.

22. The hall is very solemn and beautiful. In fact, it connects the state halls of the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Faceted Chamber and the old Terem Palace.

23. The hall is named after the Order of St. Vladimir. By the way, the upholstery of the banquettes here is exactly the same color as the order’s ribbon.

24. The staircase leads to the Terem Palace.

It is interesting that during the Russo-Japanese War, a sewing workshop was organized in the halls of the Kremlin Palace where they sewed things to be sent to the front. But in the Vladimir Hall the packing of things took place.

25. Ceiling with a translucent lantern that lets light in. The vaults are decorated with gilded ornaments and images of the Order of St. Vladimir. There is also a very beautiful gilded chandelier.

26. The doors leading to the St. George's Hall repeat in their shape the windows on the facade of the building.

27. On the glass there is an ornament and an image of the Order of St. George.

28. The same goes for door handles.

29. The most pompous, most beautiful of all the halls is St. George's Hall.

30. There is a beautiful and complex pattern on the parquet. Huge gilded chandeliers. High ceilings.

31. The hall is huge. There are windows in two rows on both sides.

Here interesting shot Soviet times. It looks like a Kremlin Christmas tree for Soviet pioneers.

32. In the niches there are tablets with the names of the holders of the order. The upholstery of the banquettes also follows the colors of the St. George ribbon.

33. The decoration of the St. George's Hall does not have as much gilding as in other parts of the BKD. Everything here is done in white colors, with stucco on the vaults and supporting columns. The only gold ones here are the images of the St. George's Stars.

34. Let’s appreciate the amazing parquet flooring again. A large number of types of wood, complex design - this is a very delicate work.

35. Very beautiful. On the left side, the shape of the niches for nameplates follows the shape of the windows, as does the far wall with doors. So St. George's Hall was designed in the spirit of symmetry.

36. The parquet is protected and walking on it is not allowed. No wonder, such beauty.

37. In the ceiling you can see water camouflaged ceiling moldings, I think they are ventilation holes.

38. Another view. Pay attention to the sculptures standing on the columns between the windows.

39. Chic bronze gilded chandelier.

40. The numbers are impressive. The length of the hall is 61 meters, width 20.5, ceiling height - 17.5. The ceiling is supported by 18 pylons. The weight of one of the six chandeliers is 1.3 tons

41. The next hall is Alexandrovsky. It is interesting that in Soviet times, the Alexander and the next St. Andrew’s halls were united, all the beauty was dismantled.

It looked like this. This was the meeting room of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR. Quite sad.

42. In the mid-90s, a decision was made to reconstruct the Alexander and St. Andrew’s halls in their original form. And from 1994 to 1998 they were restored. In fact, these are replicas of the original interiors.

43. There is much more gilding here, especially after the “modest” St. George’s Hall. On the doors there is an image of the Order of St. Alexander Nevsky. Even the chairs are decorated with his image.

44. A very elegant hall, and even the curtains match the ribbon.

45. Here again there is complete symmetry, the openings on the “blank” wall repeat the window openings. Mirrors also give the effect of light pouring from the windows.

Here is another photo from the time of the Russo-Japanese War.

46. ​​There are also luxurious chandeliers and a richly decorated ceiling with images of orders woven into the ornament.

47. Gilded columns.

48. The view is very formal.

49. On the door handle there is again an image of the order.

50. Next is another hall - Andreevsky. It was he who was the throne room of the Kremlin Palace. Accordingly, there is a throne here, or rather three, and above them is the sign of the all-seeing eye.

51. Doors between the halls. Each is decorated with a ribbon with its own order.

52. Wall decoration and curtains in the color of the ribbon of the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called - blue.

Here unique photo from the 90s. Restorers at work.

And here's another.

53. This is exactly what the miniatures on the columns at the top are painting.

Restoring parquet. In general, it is very interesting to see how all this was done.

54. Above the first row of windows along the perimeter are the coats of arms of the Russian provinces.

55. The design is again stucco with gilding.

56. Above the three throne seats there is an ermine canopy. They say that.... ermine is not real! The thrones are also not real - they are copies, but the real thrones have been preserved, now they are in the Armory.

57. The Order of St. Andrew the First-Called is the only one that is equipped with a chain. That is, the ceremonial version of the holder of the order should include such a chain, which is depicted on the doors of the hall.

58. Let's take another look at the throne. Very festive.

59. By the way, the side windows of the Andreevsky and Alexander halls overlook the Moscow River, from here it should open beautiful view to Bolotny Island and Zamoskvorechye.

Other rooms on the second floor are not accessible to visitors, as they contain the working premises of the Russian President. And no one is allowed there even in his absence. We also visited the Malachite Hall, which runs parallel to the Andreevsky and Alexander Halls, the Terem Palace - a very beautiful, authentic place, as well as the living quarters of the emperor and his family on the first floor, but it was impossible to film in all these rooms, which is a pity, there is something there look!

P.S.
I usually find all archival photos on

The Grand Kremlin Palace is one of the most beautiful buildings historical and architectural complex of the Moscow Kremlin. The structure was erected on the initiative of Emperor Nicholas I in late XIX century on the site of the ancient grand-ducal palace of Ivan III and the palace of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna, erected on its foundation in the 18th century.

Beginning of the reign of NicholasIwas overshadowed by the Decembrist uprising in December 1825 and therefore he, more than his predecessors, needed the external attributes of power. The ruler wanted to build new spacious state halls for holding palace ceremonies, and in addition, the Great Kremlin Palace had to, firstly, demonstrate the historical continuity of power, and, secondly, show its splendor and strength.

That is why elements of the Byzantine-Russian style are used in the design of the building (to show the dynastic connection with the Byzantine emperors), and the five main halls of the Grand Kremlin Palace are dedicated to the highest awards of the Russian army.

In accordance with its ceremonial function, the Grand Kremlin Palace is not so much a building as a monument that tells Russian history and glorifying the Russian army.

Grand Kremlin Palace - brief description

The main task of the architects was to solve the problem of unity architectural ensemble ancient Kremlin and a new palace. Construction was carried out according to the design of Konstantin Ton. IN palace complex ancient buildings were included - the Faceted Chamber and the Golden Tsarina Chamber, the Terem Palace and palace churches.

At the same time, the architecture of the building clearly showed the tendency towards gigantism characteristic of Ton and his time. A large-scale two-story yellow building with high arched windows stretches along the Moscow River for 125 meters, its height is 37 meters and it looks like three floors, although the building has two floors.

Entering the palace from the main entrance, you will find yourself in the front lobby, the arch of which is supported by four gray columns made of granite brought from Karelia, from the city of Serdobol (now the city of Sortavala). The lobby is illuminated by four bronze floor lamps, each containing 13 Carcel lamps (invented by the Swiss master Carcel).

Guests climbed to the second floor along the main staircase, its steps (66 in total) were low and wide, so that it was comfortable for ladies in elegant evening dresses to climb and the procession took on a particularly solemn appearance. The walls of the lobby are decorated with yellow marble brought from Kolomna near Moscow.

St. George's Hall

This is one of the most monumental and beautiful halls, dedicated to the highest order of the Russian Empire - the Order of St. George the Victorious. The badge of the order is a gold cross covered in white enamel with the image of George slaying the serpent.

The Order has four degrees of distinction. They were awarded to officers and military units for courage and bravery demonstrated in battle, as well as for length of service. In total, about 11 thousand cavaliers and regular military units were awarded this honorary military title. You will see their names on the wall boards of the hall.

Each of the pylons of the hall ends with a twisted column and a sculpture by Ivan Vitali, symbolizing the region or kingdom of the Russian Empire.

The flooring is original parquet made in 1845, made from 20 valuable types of wood brought from Southeast Asia and South America. One of the decorations of the hall is a copy of the monument to the great Novgorod heroes Kuzma Minin and Dmitry Pozharsky, erected on Red Square.

The main colors of the hall are white and gold: the vault, decorated with stucco, and the sculptures of the hall are white, the names of the St. George cavaliers and military formations on the boards are gold. Six chandeliers cast from bronze are also gilded.

St. George's Hall surprises with its severity and scale. This is a temple of Russian valor, a monument to the military exploits of Russian weapons. As before, government receptions and meetings are held here, and awards are presented.

Alexander Hall

The Alexander Hall is dedicated to the Order of St. Prince Alexander Nevsky. Prince Alexander was known for his piety and courage. The order in his honor was established by Catherine I in 1725, and the motto of the award is “For Labor and Fatherland.”

The Alexander Hall is also huge, its length is 31 meters, width - 21 and height - 20 meters. Konstantin Ton used elements of the Byzantine-Russian style in its design. Designed in 1843, the parquet flooring, with its intricate floral designs, looks like a fabric carpet that shines under a layer of varnish.

Under the dome there are signs of the order - a cross and a star with the monogram of St. Alexander, in the corners there are images of a double-headed eagle.

Historical paintings created by Fyodor Moller, a professor of historical painting at the Academy of Arts, tell the story of the life of St. Alexander Nevsky. The paintings on the western side of the hall tell about the military exploits of the prince, and on the eastern side we see scenes from his peaceful life.

Light from high windows, reflected in numerous mirrors, fills the entire space. White and pink marble are used to decorate the walls, and red velvet in the furniture upholstery matches the color of the order ribbon. Between the twisted gilded columns are the coats of arms of the lands of the Russian Empire.

St. Andrew's Hall

St. Andrew's Hall (Throne) was the main hall of the Kremlin Palace. It is dedicated to the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called, established by Peter in 1698. The motto of the order is “For faith and fidelity.”

The tetrahedral columns of St. Andrew's Hall form three naves. On the eastern side of the room there is a throne consisting of three thrones, one of them was intended for Nicholas II, the second for his wife Alexandra Feodorovna, and the third for the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna, the emperor’s mother. Above the throne seat there is a canopy of ermine fur. The vault depicts the all-seeing eye in radiance - the Orthodox symbol of the Trinity.

On the days of the coronation, guests from all lands of the Russian Empire gathered in St. Andrew's Hall to congratulate the emperor.

St. Andrew's Hall amazes with its luxury - the vaults, columns and pylons are covered with gilded stucco, and the capitals (the upper parts of the columns and pylons) are decorated with the insignia of the order - the image of a double-headed eagle, against which is St. Andrew crucified on the cross.

Vladimirsky Hall

The Vladimir Hall is dedicated to another high military award - the Order of St. Vladimir, established in honor of the Kyiv prince Vladimir, under whom the baptism of Rus' took place.

The motto of the order is “Benefit, honor and glory”, and its sign is a gold cross covered with red enamel. The creator of the Grand Kremlin Palace, Konstantin Ton, was also awarded this order.

This is an unusual hall in its shape. In plan, it is a square with a side of 16 meters, but there are niches in the corners, and as a result, the Vladimir Hall looks more like an octagon.

The vault of the hall resembles an ancient tent, into which daylight penetrates through a round lantern, and in the evening the hall is illuminated by a magnificent bronze chandelier. One of the decorations of the hall is the arches decorating the side galleries.

The Vladimir Hall connects the state rooms of the Grand Kremlin Palace with the Faceted Chamber and the Terem Palace.

The ceremonial order halls can be viewed during the tour. Only the Catherine Hall, in which the President of Russia holds official meetings and negotiations, is inaccessible.

Catherine Hall

The Catherine Hall is dedicated to the Order of St. Catherine, established by Peter the Great. The motto of the order is “For love and the fatherland.” The award had two degrees. The Order of Catherine of the first degree was awarded to princesses by birthright, and the second degree to court ladies. The first lady awarded this order was Peter's wife, Catherine I.

Extraordinarily beautiful candelabra appeared here in 1856, when the coronation of Alexander II took place. Two crystal candlesticks were brought from the Winter Palace of St. Petersburg, and four others were taken from the Museum of the Imperial Glass Factory.

Own half

In the southern part of the Kremlin Palace there is a residential part of the building. Here, in the so-called “Own Half,” were the chambers of the emperor and empress. The suite consists of six main rooms:

• The Empress's bedchamber is furnished with luxurious furniture and exquisite decoration. The design mainly uses two colors - blue and gold. An atmosphere of peace and piety prevails here
• In the Empress's boudoir (the lady's morning room) there is one of the most beautiful fireplaces in the palace, decorated with polished malachite plates. Overlaid gilded details in the form of beads, garlands and rosettes give it a special sophistication
• The Empress's office was decorated at the request of its first owner, Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, in the boule style (named after a 17th-century furniture maker). Here, a special type of inlay was used in the decoration of furniture and doors, when plates of tortoiseshell and copper were placed on a wooden base. The upholstery made of fabric with gold thread is also magnificent.
• The Empress's living room is snow-white with gold trim. Eight plaster bas-reliefs are symbols of art, another four depict the seasons. The main decoration of the room is a unique pineapple chandelier, a symbol of hospitality and cordiality.
• The dining room is decorated in a traditional classic style. Stucco ornamentation on the vault, white and yellow marble in the decoration of the walls, in the niches there are marble vases with ancient subjects, sculptures of Leda, the beloved of Zeus and the god of marriage Hyminaeus.

Excursions to the Grand Kremlin Palace

The Grand Kremlin Palace and the Chamber of Facets can only be visited as part of a guided tour by appointment. The cost of the excursion is from 4 thousand rubles (2019), duration is about 1.5 hours. You must be prepared for the fact that the date and time of the excursion may be postponed due to official events. It is recommended to take as little personal belongings as possible on the excursion. Before visiting, several security checks are carried out, just like at the airport. Photography is permitted only in a few state rooms.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was built by Konstantin Ton on the orders of Nicholas I for more than ten years - 1838 to 1849. As the great creators intended, the grandiose structure became reliable and corresponding to the status of the capital.