Peter I, the founder of Peterhof, was fascinated by water. He secured Russia's access to the sea, created a fleet, and moved the capital to the banks of the Neva. Although these actions had strategic and economic significance, Peterhof reflects the king's childlike joy from water amusements. The creation of the royal residence on the shores of the Gulf of Finland became a symbol of Russia's permanence here.

After a visit to France, Peter decided to surpass Versailles, and he succeeded. The fountains of Peterhof operate without pumps, using the natural terrain, unlike the expensive system of Versailles. Peterhof is called the "Russian Versailles" or the "Capital of Fountains."

The fountains of Peterhof are already 300 years old. Those who have seen them will not forget the rainbow in the water jets, the alleys, pavilions, the central cascade with the Grand Palace, and the view of the Gulf of Finland with Kronstadt on the horizon. Peterhof always has good weather, even in the rain. The only thing that can spoil the impression is the crowds of tourists with cameras. Thousands of tourists from all over the world come here daily, making it the most popular suburban park of St. Petersburg.

The name Peterhof was first mentioned in 1705 in connection with the fortress on Kotlin Island. Peter often stopped by the Gulf of Finland at a Swedish estate before building his residence 29 kilometers west of St. Petersburg.

There is a legend that Peterhof came about thanks to Catherine, Peter I's wife, who persuaded him to build a palace on the way to Kotlin. Peter chose a location for a country residence rather than a modest house. Initially, the park with fountains was planned in Strelna, but the terrain there was unsuitable. The official date of Peterhof's founding is considered to be 1714, when Peter laid the foundation of Monplaisir. This demonstrated that Russia had firmly established itself on the shores of the Gulf of Finland.

Peter personally planned and oversaw the construction of Peterhof. In 1723, foreign guests arrived for the opening of the residence. The emperor proudly showcased his creation and organized a grand fireworks display. The fame of Peter's residence spread throughout Europe.

The Grand Palace of Peterhof was built in the Baroque style. Its northern facade stretched along the bay, while the southern faced the Old Peterhof Road. The interiors of the palace were richly decorated. Subsequently, many famous architects participated in the decoration and reconstruction of the palace, but its architectural unity was preserved.

The Upper Garden of Peterhof was located above the palace. In the mid-18th century, decorative trees, statues, and fountains were installed there. The garden is currently under restoration.

The Lower Park of Peterhof, stretching along the bay, is the main attraction. The palace connects to the bay via the Grand Cascade, symbolizing Russia's access to the sea. At the center of the cascade is the sculpture of Samson tearing the lion's mouth, symbolizing Russia's victory over Sweden.

In Tsarist Russia, there was a tradition: after completing their studies, cadets were taken to Peterhof, where they stormed the steps of the Grand Cascade. The hero who reached the top was awarded a precious gift.

The Lower Park consists of three parts: central, eastern, and western. In the east is the Monplaisir pavilion, which the king loved for its view of Kronstadt. In the west, the "Hermitage" pavilion is being built for the king's solitude with his entourage. The park also features the miniature Marly Palace and the "Golden Mountain" cascade.

In the Alexandria park, the family residence of the Romanovs, there is silence and tranquility. Important events from the life of Nicholas II and his family took place here. The park also includes the Meadow, Colonist, English parks, and the Hare Remiz park.

During the war, the palace and park ensemble of Peterhof suffered significant losses. The Germans destroyed and looted the palaces, taking away sculptures and interiors. After the war, restoration of Peterhof began. In 1945, the Lower Park of the museum reopened to visitors. In the early 1990s, Peterhof regained its historical name.

The Peterhof water supply system is unique. Water flows to the fountains naturally due to the terrain. The length of the channels is 40 kilometers, and the area of the reservoirs is about 100 hectares. In winter, the fountains do not operate, but the snowy Peterhof is a sight worth seeing.