1858: Construction of the Pavilion Hall by the architect Andrei Stakenschneider

The Pavilion Hall of the Small Hermitage, one of the finest rooms in the Palace complex, was created to a design by Andrey Stackenschneider. Combining Renaissance, Gothic and Oriental motifs, the architect created a light and airy white and gold room. The colonnade of white marble supports an open gallery. The ceiling and arcade framing the Hall are richly decorated with gilt stucco. Marble fireplaces and fountains decorated with shells cut from coloured stone complement the overall architectural ensemble. Twenty eight large and small crystal chandeliers illuminate this sumptuous room.