PETERHOF

This imperial palace, located just outside of St. Petersburg, was the first of many sumptuous keeps, for the Tsars. The name in German means literally, "Peter's Court", which is appropriate, considering the palatial estate belonged to Peter the Great. During the Nazi occupation the name was changed from it's original germanic version to a russian equivalent. Petrodvorets (pronounced "Petrodvaryets"). In 1992 the Palace officially reverted back to it's former name, Peterhof. Referred to as the "Summer Palace," these sprawling acres are peppered with exquisite gardens and a variety of dramatic fountains with sumptous gold statues. Numerous tales surround this huge palace with tours offered during the warmer months. It is accessable by car, train or hydrafoil boats.