The farm that fed the emperors was recreated in Tsarskoe Selo

The Imperial Farm was restored in Tsarskoe Selo. This historical complex dates back to the 19th century and is located on the outskirts of Alexander Park next to the Military Chamber.

The farm began to be built in 1810-1811. The buildings were originally made of wood, but ten years later they were replaced with stone ones. First, the cattle yard was erected, then the dairy and central pavilions, including outbuildings for merino sheep. Part of the land in the nearby village of Kuzmino was also allocated for the farm.

But the farm not only served the imperial court with high-quality products, but also selected the best breeds of livestock for Russian livestock farming. In 1822, bulls and cows of the best European breeds, 100 merino sheep from Troppau, were sent here.

However, these animals did not take root on the farm; the climate was not suitable. Therefore, we decided to breed only Kholmogory breeds. In the 1860-1880s, Grand Duke Nikolai Nikolaevich took charge of the farm. The farm again acquired animals, bred them, and sold calves and surplus dairy products.

The farm selected the best livestock breeds for Russian livestock farming. Photo: t.me/tsarskoe_selo

Then these buildings became part of the Tsarskoe Selo museum-reserve. Moreover, six objects were in disrepair. In 2010, they decided to restore them for modern use.

Premises brought in order. Now the museum’s children’s center, lecture halls and office space will operate here. And in the caretaker’s house, the building of the Supreme Presence, and the dairy pavilion, a large exhibition space will be organized.

The museum’s horses were the first to celebrate housewarming in the restored premises. They moved into a bright, warm, spacious stable, which was converted from a former cowshed.