Large stone staircase

The Large Stone Staircase was constructed according to V. Brenna's design in 1799, during the transformation of Pavlovsk into an official imperial residence. Originally, on this high bank of the Slavyanka River stood the Tower-Ruin, which had to be dismantled after the construction of the new Northern wing of the palace. Then, to the north of the Triple Linden Alley, V. Brenna created a new regular layout of the Large Circles. To smoothly connect the Large Circles with the Slavyanka River Valley, V. Brenna built the Large Stone Staircase, sometimes called the Italian Staircase or Brenna's Staircase.

The staircase is called Italian because, during its creation, architect Brenna was inspired by motifs of Italian garden and park architecture from the late 15th to early 16th centuries, characterized by terraced gardens with wide staircases adorned with sculptures.

It is one of the main structures of Pavlovsk Park, defining its architectural appearance. The staircase was intended for solemn court processions as well as to connect the palace with sections of the park.

The most beautiful view opens from the top. If, having climbed up, a guest looks around, an amazing picture will unfold – a far-reaching panorama of the river valley in all its splendor.

The long stone staircase consists of several flights separated by spacious landings. The staircase has 64 steps, divided into four flights of 16 steps each, with three small landings between them. Toward the bottom, the width of the steps slightly increases, making the staircase appear even longer. On each side of the staircase are 12 ledges. At the lower supports, at the foot of the staircase, cast-iron lion sculptures are installed. Roaring, with a beastly grimace, as if ready to leap, they embody strict guardians of order, protecting the imperial palace. At the upper supports, figures of lions made of white Italian marble from the 18th century peacefully and gently welcome guests.

At the top of the staircase, Brenna designed a landing serving as a transition to the Large Circles and decorated it with a balustrade with cast-iron vases. From this observation platform, there is an excellent panorama of the opposite winding bank of the Slavyanka River with an open expanse of green meadow framed by dark curtains of trees in the distance, with solitary trees seemingly arranged like on a stage, and finally, a view of the Temple of Friendship, nestled in the river’s bend.

Destroyed during the war, the staircase was restored only in 2012.

http://www.pavlovskmuseum.ru/about/park/layout/36/1138/