The Catherine Palace is a magnificent example of the Russian baroque style of Zemstov, Kvasov, and Chevaminsky, although Rastrelli's influence is chiefly responsible for its distinctive character. Its bright bue color, brilliant white columns, and gilded towers and ornamentation continue to dazzle the eye more than two centuries after its construction, although vast reconstruction and restoration was required after Nazis virtually destroyed the complex during World War II.

dillonford@earthlink.net