In the early 18th century, when Peter I founded St. Petersburg, he chose an island at the mouth of the Ekaterinhofka River to create a country residence for his wife, Catherine Alexeyevna. This place was named Ekaterinhof, which literally translates to "Catherine's court," combining Catherine's name with the German word Hof.

In 1711, a wooden palace was built here, surrounded by a formal garden with alleys, canals, and ponds. In addition to the palace, the estate featured outbuildings, greenhouses, and other garden structures. Ekaterinhof was connected to Petersburg by a road that later became part of the Peterhof perspective. Peter I envisioned Ekaterinhof not only as a place of rest but also as a symbol of victory over the Swedes. Subsequently, country residences for his daughters were built nearby: Annenhof and Elizavetghof.

After the death of Peter I, Ekaterinhof fell into decline, but during the reign of Elizabeth Petrovna, the palace was renovated and expanded. In 1747 and 1750, it was made two stories high, with side wings added. In 1825, a museum dedicated to the era of Peter I opened here. In the 19th century, Ekaterinhof became a popular place for walks and entertainment for the residents of Petersburg.

After the 1917 revolution, the palace was handed over to youth organizations, but its fate turned tragic. In June 1923, the building was severely damaged by fire, and in the following years, its destruction continued. In 1926, the remnants of the palace were dismantled for firewood. Today, the site of the former residence is occupied by Ekaterinhof Park in the Admiralteysky District of St. Petersburg. Here, ponds, alleys, and elements of the historical layout have been preserved, while only fragments of the foundation remain from the palace. This park continues to hold the memory of the former splendor and significance of Ekaterinhof in the city's history.