Peterhof (1 of 2)
This most stunning of the tsarist palaces around St Petersburg was first built by Peter the Great; it is also known as Petrodvorets (Peter's Palace). Over the years his successors continued to build and expand - pretty much constantly - to create the astounding ensemble seen today. Comparisons to Versailles abound and it's easy to see why: the sheer scale of the main palace and its incredible garden were heavily influenced by Louis XIV's own summer residence. That said, the centrepiece at Peterhof, the Grand Cascade, is all Peter's own work.
