Anichkov Palace was built in the XVIII century and became the first stone palace on Nevsky Prospect. Initially, it was known as the “Anichkov Bridge Palace”. The bridge, in turn, was named after the officer, who commanded the battalion that built this bridge over the Fontanka River.

Many famous architects have contributed to the design and construction of the buildings on the territory of the Anichkov estate: M.G. Zemtsov, F.B. Rasstrelli, I.E. Starov, L. Rusca, J. Quarenghi, C.I. Rossi, A.I. Stakenschneider and others.

At different times, Empresses Elizabeth and Catherine II gifted the estate to their favorites. In the XIX century, it was in the possession of the imperial family.

The palace continued its work even during the difficult years of the Siege: children’s clubs, a playground, a library were opened here, the city competition of children’s crafts and even a New Year’s party for kids took place in the palace. Concert brigades of students from the art department and the dance ensemble of the Palace of Pioneers under the direction of choreographer A.E. Obrant performed in military units and hospitals. 70 members of the children’s frontline ensemble were awarded medals “For the Defense of Leningrad”.

Today, the Palace of Youth Creativity is located here, offering children classes in art, science, engineering, social activism and sports. Festivals and performances are organized here as well. The city’s major New Year’s party for children takes place in the palace.

In the Palace of Youth Creativity kids can try themselves as cabin crew members, assemble a radio-controlled car model or design and put together a race track for it. The doors of the Palace are always open to the world of hobbies of young residents of Saint Petersburg. Festivals and competitions, game programs and performances, subject olympiads and scientific conferences are held here all year round. Every day is a new event! The Palace is a permanent meeting place for participants of various local and All-Russian pedagogical conferences and seminars, festivals and contests.

Visit the garden of the Anichkov Palace – a cozy place for quiet walks, despite its proximity to Nevsky Prospect.