Peterhof was founded in the early 18^th century by Emperor Peter I near Russia’s new capital – Saint Petersburg. It later became one of the most luxurious royal summer residences and a unique triumphal monument to the successful completion of Russia’s struggle for access to the Baltic Sea. The idea of ​​creating the ensemble, the main layout concepts and artistic intentions for its decoration belong to Peter I. The construction of the residence, that was as beautiful and splendid as the best residences of European monarchy, including the French Versailles, commenced in 1714. By the mid-1720s, the regular Upper Garden and Lower Park were established, the Grand Palace and some smaller palaces and pavilions were built, most of the sculptural decoration was finished, and the world’s largest system of fountains and water cascades was created. Interestingly, the main feature of the water supply system of the Peterhof fountain complex is the absence of any water-pressure structures and pumps:  the difference in levels, at which ponds and fountains are located, is utilized here instead.

The architecture and decor of Peterhof reflects all the artistic styles of the past as well as personal tastes and preferences of every Russian monarch.

In 1917, after the Russian revolution, Peterhof became a large educational center.

During the Great Patriotic War, all parks of Peterhof received very serious damage because they were located on the territory that was captured by German troops. The Upper Garden, the Lower Park and the system of fountain pipelines suffered the most. The reconstruction of the ensemble began immediately after the liberation, and today this natural and man-made masterpiece welcomes its guests, impressing and astounding them once again.

Some of the palaces and parks of Peterhof (Lower Park, Upper Garden, Alexandria, part of the Kolonistsky Park) are currently part of the Peterhof State Museum Reserve. Nowadays, Peterhof Museum Reserve consists of 33 museums, 414 hectares of parks and gardens and more than 150 fountains. In 1990, the architecture and park ensemble “Peterhof” was included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List, and in 2008 it was recognized as one of the seven wonders of Russia.