6. Palace of Winter
Location: Saint Petersburg, Russia
Completed Cost: $6.44 billion (adjusted for inflation)
Year Completed: 1764
The Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg is a historic architectural marvel, originally constructed for the Russian Emperors. With an estimated cost exceeding $6 billion when adjusted for inflation, it served as the residence for the Russian monarchy from 1732 to 1917.
Historical Significance
Final Occupants: The last residents were Nicholas II and his Romanov family, who faced tragic fates during the Russian Revolution.
Winter Palace Current Use and Features
Current Use: Houses the Hermitage Museum of Russia
Total Rooms: 1,500
Staircases: 117
Since the tragic end of the Romanovs, the Winter Palace has not been a residence. Instead, it now serves as the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. Visitors are consistently amazed by the palace's vastness and architectural grandeur.
Notable Features
Formal Conference Spaces: Designed for official gatherings and events
Waiting Areas: Elegant spaces for guests
Private Suites: Luxurious accommodations within the palace