Month: August 2023

Cathedral in memory of Nicholas II under construction in Murmansk

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: artist concept of the cathedral named in honour of Nicholas II in Murmansk

Construction has begun on a new cathedral named in honour of the Holy Royal Martyr Nicholas II in Murmansk, Russia’s first ice free port founded in 1916 by Nicholas II and named Romanov-on-Murman.

“With the blessing of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, the new Russian Orthodox temple will bear the name of the Holy Transfiguration of St. Nicholas Cathedral,” stated Metropolitan Mitrofan of Murmansk and Monchegorsk.

The idea to build a church in honour of the last Tsar in Murmansk is the initiative of the Murmansk diocese. The cathedral will be erected on the site of a former amusement park on the street named after Konstantin Burkov, a veteran of the Soviet-Finnish and Great Patriotic Wars, a Pomeranian sailor who made a significant contribution to the development of the Kola Arctic and was awarded the highest state award of the USSR – the Order of Lenin. In November 2022, Metropolitan Mitrofan presented the project to Patriarch Kirill. During that meeting, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church noted that the style of the temple should correspond to the traditions of the Russian North and promised to support the project.

***

In recent years, Emperor Nicholas II has been commemorated in a number of projects in Murmansk and the surrounding region:

  • In June 2019, Murmansk Airport was reamed Nicholas II-Murmansk Airport
  • In July 2019, plans were announced for a bust-monument to Nicholas II, to be installed in front of the main terminal at Nicholas II-Murmansk Airport

© Paul Gilbert. 27 August 2023

‘The Romanovs: An Imperial Family’ a film by Gleb Panfilov

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

“A legacy that defied Bolshevik and Soviet attempts of erasure”

***

OBITUARY: the famous Soviet and Russian film director and screenwriter Gleb Anatolyevich Panfilov (1934–2023), died on 26th August 2023, at the age of 89. Memory Eternal! Вечная Память!

***

More than a century has passed since the murder of Emperor Nicholas II and his family brought an end to the Russian monarchy and the Russian Empire. The Soviet Union is no more. But the grandeur of pre-Soviet, Tsarist Russia continues to occupy the imagination of people across the world and the last Russian Imperial family has entered the annals of cinema in many a memorable work of moving images.

Among the cinematic works created around the Romanov family who were brutally murdered by the Ural Soviet on 17th July 1918, is the historical drama film ‘The Romanovs: An Imperial Family’. The Russian made which was released in 2000 having premiered at the 22nd Moscow Film Festival. This film is a must watch not only for ‘Romanovophiles’ but also for history buffs and movie lovers who enjoy the historical drama genre. Directed by internationally acclaimed Russian film director Gleb Anatolyevich Panfilov (1934-2023), it is a Russian language movie with Russian actor Aleksandr Galibin as Emperor Nicholas II and British actress Lynda Bellingham as Empress Alexandra Feodorovna.

The directorial craft of the movie brings to life the perceptions and perspectives of Nicholas II and his family during the last stage of their lives and shows how the imperial family perceived and responded to news of the turmoil in the country that was creating a tide of antipathy towards the monarchy. The narrative shows the humaneness of the Tsar and his family bringing to life their humanity which makes this an endearing film.

Contrary to what Soviet propaganda sought to perpetuate during the reign of communism in Russia, that the Imperial family were cold and uncaring towards the masses, Panfilov’s vision shows how the Romanovs were caring people with admirable humane qualities and talents which even their captors could not help but secretly appreciate.

The movie is quite compelling with a cast of good actors and a plot structure that drives forward the drama of events and action principally through the somewhat insular characters of the Imperial family. Galibin delivers a superb performance as His Imperial Majesty Tsar Nicholas. The character that is brought to life in Panfilov’s directorial vision is one who is much a human with his principal weakness being perhaps that he was torn between how to focus and devote himself and his efforts on being a good father while also being a good monarch and to win the love and respect of all.

The Tsar and Tsarina are shown as two loving humans who are solid in their spousal and parental love. The Imperial children are portrayed as children who feel emotions of sadness, fear, anger and love just like any other, and how they are made hapless victims of a political agenda that overawes all forms of governance and power that formed the old order of imperial Russia.

The revolution is not shown in prominence through extensive scenes of armed conflicts but as more a series of events brought to the knowledge of the Tsar and his family at various stages from February 1917 to the fated day of their massacre in Ekaterinburg on 17th July 1918. Their grasp of matters that near their unseen doom, as a gradual and coldly unnerving series of changes in their household brings to life the ‘psychological environment’ the Imperial family inhabited in their last days. The Tsar and his family are meant to endure suffering that is much more psychological than physical and thus the slow torment and torture of the Romanovs at the hands of the communist red army captors are brought to life.

The Ipatiev House, In what is called the ‘House of Special Purpose’ by the Bolsheviks, a residence located in Ekaterinburg in Western Siberia, the Imperial family is kept under guard, after the Tsar’s abdication and monarchical rule ends and the family finds themselves being political prisoners. However, the ‘House of Special Purpose’ becomes the slaughter house where the massacre of the imperial family and their remaining staff takes place past midnight on 17th July 1918. The murder carried out by the Bolsheviks brings the narrative of the Romanovs to an end. The scene which follows as the end of the film is documentary footage of the scene of canonization of the Romanov family in Russiain 2000.

The final scene is a strong message that one sees at the end of the film when reading it in context of post-Soviet Russia. The statues of Lenin who founded the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) have been brought down with the end of the Soviet Union and his legacy now enjoys no glory among Russians. The Romanovs, however, have once again been reborn in their nation’s collective heart and soul, to remain adored in the Russian people’s memory.

‘The Romanovs: An Imperial Family’ is presented in this post in 13 x 10 minute videos, with ENGLISH subtitles.

This film presents the most historically accurate version of events available to an English audience to date. Unlike Massie’s ‘Nicholas and Alexandra’ (1971), Panfilov filmed entirely in Russia, with many scenes filmed inside the Alexander Palace at Tsarskoye Selo. Furniture was specially created for this film, which can be seen on display in the palace to this day. The recreation of the private apartments of the Imperial family in the Alexander Palace and the Tsar’s Imperial Train are truly remarkable.Overall, the film is visually stunning!

I invite you to make yourself a cup of tea or pour a glass of your favourite wine, sit back, relax and enjoy ‘The Romanovs: An Imperial Family’ – PG

© Dilshan Boange / Paul Gilbert. 20 September 2020

Imperial Family inspire 12-year-old cancer patient

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

On 28th August 2023, a special exhibit ‘Dedication to the Romanovs’ will open at the Poklevsky-Kozell House Museum in Ekaterinburg.

The exhibit will feature seven works by Vasilisa Kudrina, a 12-year-old artist from Nizhnyaya Tura (a town located in the Sverdlovsk region).

Earlier this year the young artist was diagnosed with cancer. She spent 4 months in the Children’s Cancer Center in Ekaterinburg, where she underwent two surgeries and four courses of aggressive chemotherapy. During her recovery Vasilisa found comfort through painting and drawing, it was the Russian Imperial Family who inspired her.

PHOTO: Emperor Nicholas II by Vasilisa Kudrina

PHOTO: Empress Alexandra Feodorovna by Vasilisa Kudrina

PHOTO: Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich by Vasilisa Kudrina

Vasilisa is the eldest of three children of Yulia Kudrina, a photographer from Nizhnyaya Tura. The birth of a girl was a miracle for the family. Vasilisa was born pre-mature and forced to fight for her life. Over time, it seemed that everything was getting better. Vasilisa went to school and began to study well. From an early age, the girl was fascinated by painting and drawing. Today, Vasilisa receives a scholarship at the Children’s Art School from the town of Nizhnyaya Tura.

Her favorite genre is portraits, she draws with gouache, ink, markers, even ordinary pencils. Despite her young age, she already shows great talent. Her portraits are very expressive, especially the eyes of her subjects. Recently, she has been fascinated by digital graphics, and is now drawing on a tablet.

Last year, Vasilisa became very interested in the Romanov dynasty, particularly the last Tsar and his family. Her passion for their history is clearly reflected in her work. She created a whole series of portraits of the Imperial Family in her own special style. In the hospital, where she spent four months, Vasilisa continued to paint and draw. She painted portraits of members of the Imperial Family, including Emperor Nicholas II, Empress Alexandra Feodorovna and their five children.

PHOTO: Grand Duchess Olga Nikolaevna by Vasilisa Kudrina

PHOTO: Grand Duchess Tatiana Nikolaevna by Vasilisa Kudrina

PHOTO: Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna by Vasilisa Kudrina

PHOTO: Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna by Vasilisa Kudrina


When asked about her hobby and her dreams, Vasilisa replied: “I love to paint portraits of people. For example, in the classroom I sometimes draw my classmates, and at home I draw my family. My dream is to study at an art school, and then paint pictures or work somewhere as an artist. I really want to study at the Russian Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg. After that, I have not yet made any further plans, but I think that I would like to stay in St. Petersburg and work there in some creative profession.

The exhibition ‘Dedication to the Romanovs’ runs from 28th August to 17th September 2023 at the Poklevsky-Kozell House Museum in Ekaterinburg.

***

Dear Reader

Please join me in offering prayers, hugs and words of encouragement to 12-year-old Vasilisa Kudrina – seen in the photo above – in her battle against cancer. May the Holy Royal Martyrs protect her and intercede for her before Christ. We pray that this dear child will make a full recovery.

Holy Royal Martyrs, pray to God for us! ☦️
Святы Царственные мученики, молите Бога о нас! ☦️

© Paul Gilbert. 24 August 2023

NEW BOOK: Ella. Grand Duchess Elizabeth. Saint Elizabeth the New Martyr

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

*You can order this title from AMAZON in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia,
France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden and Japan
*Note: prices are quoted in local currencies

CLICK HERE TO ORDER THE PAPERBACK EDITION @ $13.99 USD

English. 160 pages with 48 black & white photos

More than a century after her death and martyrdom, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodorovna (1864-1918) remains of one of the most beloved and respected members of the Russian Imperial Family. Affectionately known as Ella, she became famous in Russian society for her dignified beauty and charm, and later for her piety and acts of charity among the poor.

This new book features 7 essays – including 2 researched and written by Paul Gilbert. Read about Ella’s Hessian family; her relationship with her British grandmother Queen Victoria and her sister Alexandra, the last Russian Empress; her life in Imperial Russia; her years a a nun and abbess of her own convent of mercy in Moscow; her arrest, imprisonment and brutal murder; her burial in the Holy Land; her canonization; and how she is commemorated today in post-Soviet Russia.

Learn about her marriage and often misunderstood relationship to Sergei, a Russian grand duke and son of Emperor Alexander II, who from 1891 and 1905 served as Moscow’s Governor-General. Learn why the couple had no children and rumours that Sergei was homosexual. After her husband’s assassination in 1905, Ella departed the Imperial Court and became a nun, founding the Marfo-Mariinsky Convent dedicated to helping the downtrodden of Moscow.

In 1918, Ella was arrested and subsequently murdered by the Bolsheviks near Alapaevsk. In 1981, she was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, and in 1992 by the Moscow Patriarchate.

© Paul Gilbert. 21 August 2023

Ekaterinburg celebrates 300th anniversary

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

Ekaterinburg was founded on 18th November 1723, by decree of Emperor Peter I (1672-1725), but its ‘City Day is officially celebrated on the third Saturday of August (19th August in 2023). The name of the city was given in honor of Empress Catherine I (1684-1727), the second wife of Peter the Great. 

In 1924 Ekaterinburg was renamed Sverdlovsk and lived with the Bolshevik name for 67 years, until 1991, when after the fall of the Soviet Union, the city returned to its historical name.

This historic anniversary will be marked throughout the year by a series of events and celebrations, plus the implementation of a number of significant construction projects dedicated to the founding of the Ural city, the center of the Sverdlovsk region and the Urals Federal District, the unofficial “capital of the Urals” and the fourth-largest city in Russia.

Preparations for the celebration began in 2017. It is estimated that the total amount of public and private funding for the celebrations and projects is 244 billion rubles [$4.4 billion USD].

Among the hundreds of events planned are the following Romanov themed events:

  • On 14th July 2023 a new permanent exhibition The Romanovs in the Urals opened at the Poklevsky-Kozell House Museum of the Sverdlovsk Regional Museum of Local Lore in Ekaterinburg
  • On 15th July 2023 a bust of Tsesarevich Alexei Nikolaevich was installed and consecrated in the Tsarsky Center, located in the Patriarchal Compound, across from the Church on the Blood in Ekaterinburg
  • Tsar’s Days, marking the 105th anniversary of the death and martyrdom of Emperor Nicholas II and his family. On the night of 16/17 July, Divine Liturgy was performed at the Church on the Blood, and then lead the 21-km (13 miles) Cross Procession to the Monastery of the Holy Royal Martyrs at Ganina Yama. An estimated 40,000 people took part in this year’s event
  • On 11th August 2023, a pair of busts depicting Emperor Peter I and Empress Catherine I were unveiled on Historical Square in front of the Museum of Architecture and Design of the Ural State Academy of Arts

PHOTO: St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Novo-Tikhvinsky Convent, Ekaterinburg

“Ekaterinburg: my favourite Russian city”

People often ask me “Why Ekaterinburg?” as opposed to the former Imperial capital of St. Petersburg, especially given that “Ekaterinburg has such a dark history.”

Once a bastion of Bolshevism, Ekaterinburg has slowly shed its status as the “capital of atheism”. Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Urals has experienced a revival of faith, with Ekaterinburg as the center of Orthodox Russia in the region.

It is important to add, that Ekaterinburg has done more to honour Nicholas II and his family than any other city in Russia. Thanks to my visits to Ekaterinburg in 2012, 2016 and 2018, it is a city which I have grown to admire and love.

Articles about Paul Gilbert and his admiration for Ekaterinburg, published in Russian media:

“Пол Гилберт: «Екатеринбург – мой любимый российский город»”
Ольга Кошкина. ‘Областная газета’ 22 октября 2019

“«Интерес мира к жизни и царствованию Николая II сохраняется по сей день»:
британский историк о Царской семье”
Ольга Кошкина. Екатеринбургская Епархия. 26 октября 2019

PHOTO: On the eve of the 300th anniversary of Ekaterinburg, the city plans to erect a statue – by the Russian sculptor Fedor Petrov – dedicated to the patron saint of the city – St. Catherine.

“The last capital of the Russian Empire”

“On a spiritual level, Ekaterinburg is the last capital of the Russian Empire, because the residence of the Sovereign was always considered the capital in Russia. Peter the Great never officially transferred the capital from Moscow to St. Petersburg, but since he lived there, it was the capital,” says Russian historian Peter Multatuli.

He noted that in 1918, for 78 days, Emperor Nicholas II and his family lived in Ekaterinburg, and that is why the Ural capital can be considered the last capital of the Russian Empire. [It is important to note that many historians – myself included – firmly believe that the Tsar’s signing of the instrument of abdication, his status as Tsar remained inviolate and unassailable – PG]

“Petrograd and Moscow to one degree or another welcomed his overthrow, and they bear a greater responsibility in this than any other Russian city. No matter what anyone says, it was Ekaterinburg that served as the last Imperial residence, which, according to God’s special plan, became the Royal Golgotha,” added Multatuli.

According to him, in the near future, Ekaterinburg will play a great role in the history of Russia, because “the city named after St. Catherine and becoming the Royal Golgotha ​​will be the city of Russian resurrection.”

***

TSAR’S DAYS
Journey to Ekaterinburg
by Paul Gilbert

Read all about my journey to Ekaterinburg – my 3rd visit to the Urals – in July 2018, to take part in the events marking the 100th anniversary of the deaths and martyrdom of Nicholas II and his family.

“On 17th July 1998, independent researcher and writer Paul Gilbert travelled to St. Petersburg, for the interment of Emperor Nicholas II and his family. Twenty years later to the day, he journeyed to Ekaterinburg, to take part in the events marking the 100th anniversary of the Tsar’s death and martyrdom.

“In his own words and photographs, the author shares his experiences and impressions of this historic event, which include visits to the Church on the Blood, Ganina Yama, Porosenkov Log, the Patriarchal Liturgy, exhibitions, and much more.

“In addition are 24 illustrated news articles about events leading up to Tsar’s Days in the Urals, from 1st to 31st July 2018.

“Gilbert’s solemn journey to the Urals allowed him to experience history in the making, and to honour the memory of the Holy Royal Martyrs, a century after their death and martyrdom.”

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Hardcover and Paperback editions. 152 pages + Richly illustrated with nearly
200 COLOUR PHOTOS, 65 of which were taken by the author

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ORDER FROM AMAZON

HARD COVER EDITION @ $40 USD

PAPERBACK EDITION @ $25 USD

© Paul Gilbert. 19 August 2023

Imperial Railway Pavilion in Tsarskoye Selo is being restored

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

It’s official! After decades of delays and lack of funding, restoration of the Imperial Railway Pavilion to its original historic look in Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) is now underway. Having survived the revolution, war, vandalism and the elements, it is nothing short of a miracle that it has survived to the present day.

The project has some very high profile supporters, including the governor of St. Petersburg, Alexander Beglov and State Duma deputy Vladimir Resin. The official announcement was made during the first meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Tsarskoye Selo Station Foundation, which was held on 17th August in the Imperial Hall of the pavilion.

“We have created a special fund to restore the Imperial Railway Pavilion, the only imperial railway station in Russia. Ideas for the building’s use after the restoration has been completed are currently being developed. Funding will be provided at the expense of the city and federal budgets, as well as private and corporate donors,” Beglov said.

PHOTO: the first meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Tsarskoye Selo Station Foundation, was held on 17th August 2023, in the Imperial Hall of the pavilion

One of the finest examples of the Neo-Russian style

The construction of a special branch line from the Vitebsk Railway Station in St. Petersburg to the Alexander Palace in Tsarskoye Selo began in 1895. It was deemed a matter of security to provide safe transport links between the capital and the suburban residence for the Tsar and his family. The line was also convenient for government officials who arrived daily by train with their reports to the Tsar when he was in residence.

The original Imperial Pavilion was constructed of wood in 1895, however, it was destroyed by fire on 25th January 1911. A new stone pavilion designed by architect V.A. Pokrovsky, was constructed in the same Neo-Russian style as the buildings of the nearby Feodorovsky Gorodok [Town]. The Imperial Railway Pavilion served as a terminus for the Tsar’s Imperial Train. It was here that Emperor Nicholas II greeted many foreign dignitaries. A special road was laid from the station to the Alexander Palace.

The richly decorated interiors were stylized as chambers with heavy stone vaults. The decoration of the facades and interiors corresponded to the grand presentation of the station, being an example of a synthesis of architecture, monumental painting and decorative art, which successfully combined the forms of ancient Russian architecture of the 17th century. with construction technologies and materials characteristic of the modern era. The imperial chambers of the station were painted by the artist M. I. Kurilko, reflecting the chambers of the beloved suburban palace of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich.

The fate of the Imperial Railway Pavilion during the Soviet years

In 1918, the station was renamed the Uritsky[1] Pavilion and was used as a dormitory and canteen for workers of the Track Repair of the Mechanical Plant, created on the basis of the Imperial Railway Repair Depot. The Imperial emblems were removed and the building and adapted for housing. The rails and sleepers were dismantled and used for the construction of other railway lines. The 200-meter passenger platform was dismantled in the 1930s. The pavilion was badly damaged during the Great Patriotic War (1941-45).

The dormitory was moved in the 1970s, the former station closed and has not been used since. The former Imperial Railway Pavilion was declared an object of cultural heritage of Russia of federal significance, an act which saved the building from demolition.

The rebirth of the Imperial Railway Pavilion

The Imperial Railway Pavilion in Tsarskoye Selo will be completely restored in its original form, including the terminal building, the platform and canopy, as well as the unique interior paintings, some of which have already been partially uncovered by restorers.

According to restorers, many of the building’s original details have surprisingly been well preserved. The historical painting of the dome of the main entrance to the Tsar’s Station has been miraculously preserved – see photos above, one of which shows an area which had been cleaned, revealing the colourful painting underneath. Early 20th century watercolours of the interiors – which have been preserved in archives – will be of great assistance to artists in their efforts to restore the once beautiful interior to its historic original.

The restoration of the Imperial Railway Pavilion will be one of the stages in the integrated development of the territory, which includes the Feodorovsky Gorodok (Town), Fermsky Park[2] and other facilities. This combined with the restoration of the Feodorovsky Sovereign Cathedral and the Alexander Palace will complete a revival of some of the most notable buildings associated with the life of Russia’s last Tsar, one which the Bolsheviks and Soviets failed to destroy.

Several years ago, a wooden Orthodox cross – seen in above photo – was installed outside the Imperial Railway Pavilion at Tsarskoye Selo. The inscription on the plaque reads: “All around is betrayal and cowardice and deceit! Forgive us, sovereign” and signed: “The soul of the Russian people.”

NOTES:

[1] Moisei Solomonovich Uritsky (1873-1918) served as Chief of the Cheka of the Petrograd Soviet. After his assassination in 1918, Lenin initiated the first Red Terror on 20th September 1918.

[2] Fermsky Park is located near the Fedorovskiy Gorodok [Town] and Alexander Park. It was arranged by Adam Menelaws in 1818–1820 as a grazing area at the nearby imperial farm. A pond was dug in the park for watering.

FURTHER READING:

Update on the restoration of the Imperial Railway Pavilion at Tsarskoye Selo – published on 16th April 2024

Further to my August 2023 announcement that the Imperial Railway Pavilion at Tsarskoye Selo would be restored, I am pleased to provide the following update, which includes photos [taken in March 2024] of the progress being made on this important historic project, one which is closely connected to Emperor Nicholas II.

The sad state of the Imperial Railway Pavilion in Tsarskoye Selo includes 20 PHOTOS! – originally published on 29th December 2019

Imperial Railway Pavilions During the Reign of Nicholas II – originally published on 23rd October 2019

© Paul Gilbert. 18 August 2023

***

If you enjoyed this article, then please consider making a donation to my research, which helps me with the acquisition of documents from Russian sources and the cost of having them translated into English for the first time.

Not only do these documents give voice to the works of a new generation of Russian historian, they are of immense historic value in helping me with my efforts to clear the name of Russia’s much slandered Tsar.

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PAUL GILBERT

AUCTION SALE: 300+ photos of Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: a collection of 332 black and white photographs from one of the private photo albums belonging to Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna are for sale from my collection. CLICK on the image to enlarge – PG

As many of you know, I will be moving back to England in the summer of 2025. As a result, I am forced to sell not only my furniture and other possessions, I have also made the very difficult decision to part with some of my Romanov treasures.

Back in 1998-99 I went to visit a man living in Rosedale, an historic and very affluent residential area in Toronto, Ontario. I had been invited by historian and author Patricia Phenix, who was researching for her book Olga Romanov: Russia’s Last Grand Duchess [Published in 1999 by Viking-Penguin]. The gentleman had a collection of photographs copied from one of the personal photograph albums belonging to Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna [1882-1960]. He was kind enough to show us the photographs, and even agreed to allow us to make copies.

Aside from the original album, ONLY three sets of these photographs exist. We had two sets made – a great expense at time – one for Pat, the other for myself. We returned the original set to the gentleman in Rosedale, who several years later “loaned” them to Olga Kulikovsky-Romanov, who used them for the exhibitions of Grand Duchess Olga’s paintings, which she was organizing in Russia. She never returned the photographs to the gentleman in Rosedale.

The photos depict Grand Duchess Olga and her family in Russia, Denmark and Canada, where she died on 24th November 1960. The photos from her Russian years include her mother Empress Maria Feodorovna, her brothers Tsar Nicholas II and Grand Duke Mikhail Alexandrovich, as well as her sister Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna.

This lot consists of a total of 332 black and white photographs. The quality and clarity of each photo varies from one image to the next. The photographs are copies of those from Olga’s photo album. The fate of the photo album is unknown, but is believed to have been sold at auction.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS AN AUCTION SALE: I am offering this collection of 332 photos to the highest bidder. I have set the bidding price at $150 USD. I invite those of you who are interested to send me a private e-mail [royalrussia@yahoo.com], stating your highest bid. The winner will be notified by e-mail on Tuesday, 5th September 2023. Payment can be made by credit card or PayPal. All sales are final.

© Paul Gilbert. 16 August 2023

Restoration of the Feodorovsky Gorodok in Tsarskoye Selo

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

PHOTOS: view of the restoration work at the Feodorovsky Gorodok

After decades of neglect during the Soviet years. the historic Feodorovsky Gorodok [Town], situated near the Feodorovsky Sovereign Cathedral and the Alexander Palace in Tsarskoye Selo, is being returned to its former glory. The restoration of the complex – which consists of 7 buildings – has been ongoing for some years, and we are only now beginning to see the progress being made in this collection of new photographs.

The history of the Feodorovsky Gorodok began in 1905, when the family of Emperor Nicholas II decided to move from the Winter Palace in St Petersburg to the Alexander Palace in Tsarskoye Selo. Nicholas II ordered the construction of an ensemble of buildings in the Neo-Russian style. The sketches drawn up by the architect Stepan Samoilovich Krichinsky (1874-1923) were approved by Nicholas II in the summer of 1913, and included a railway station of the imperial branch linking St Petersburg – Tsarskoye Selo – Pavlovsk.

Next came the barracks of His Imperial Majesty’s Own Convoy, constructed on the lime avenue which led to the Imperial residence. A little later the Feodorovsky Sovereign Cathedral was built near the palace pond. The Emperor personally laid the foundation stone, and later attended the consecration with his family in 1912.

PHOTO: artist concept of the Feodorovsky Gorodok once the restoration has been completed

PHOTO: this aerial view of the Feodorovsky Gorodok (left) shows its proximity to the Feodorovsky Sovereign Cathedral (right) at Tsarskoye Selo

Opposite the cathedral, it was decided to build a town for the for the clergy of the Feodorovsky Sovereign’s Cathedral. Resembling a mini Kremlin, built in the Neo-Russian style, it was the last pre-revolutionary attempt to strengthen Russian statehood as a national idea. It became a masterpiece of atypical architecture for classical Petersburg.

During the First World War, an infirmary was located in the Gorodok. It was here that the Empress Alexandra Feodorovna, along with her daughters administered care for wounded Russian soldiers.

On 25th (O.S. 12th) February 1917, Emperor Nicholas II visited the Feodorovsky Gorodok and left a note in the visitor’s book: “On 12th February 1917, I inspected with pleasure the buildings at the Feodorovsky Gorodok and Cathedral. I welcome the good initiative in the revival of the artistic beauty of Russian everyday life. Thanks to everyone who worked hard. God help you all. Nicholas” 

PHOTOS: 4 views of the restoration work at the Feodorovsky Gorodok

In 1994, the complex of the Feodorovsky Gorodok was transferred to the Russian Orthodox Church; in it, with the blessing of Patriarch Alexi II (1929-2008), a Patriarchal Metochion [an ecclesiastical embassy church within Eastern Orthodox tradition] was created, within the walls of which it was supposed to place: the residence of the patriarch; Museum of the History of the Russian Orthodox Church in the North-West Region of Russia; pilgrimage and training center; icon-painting workshops; and a hotel.

Due to lack of funding, restoration efforts were met with constant delays, which left the complex in a dilapidated state. In 2001, the architectural ensemble was registered as a monument of Russian cultural heritage, and protected by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation. The restoration and reconstruction will not be financed by the Russian Orthodox Church, but by the management division of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation.

PHOTOS: 5 views of the restoration work at the Feodorovsky Gorodok

The management division of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation are now engaged in the restoration of the historic complex of buildings. The project’s plans were developed by the E. Yu. Merkuryeva Architectural Workshop LLC, a firm whose previous projects include the restoration of the Konstantin Palace (Strelna), and the Senate and Synod building (St Petersburg), which today house the Boris Yeltsin Presidential Library and the Constitutional Court.

The patriarch’s quarters will be housed in the Rose Chamber, while apartments for the nine permanent members of the Synod will be housed in the Belaya (White) Chamber. The project provides for the restoration of the historical appearance of the facades and interiors of all seven buildings, including the restoration of paintings and tiles, as well as landscaping and development of a park for guests.

The restoration of the Feodorovsky Gorodok was initially supposed to have been completed in 2019, however, lack of financing caused its delay. Project developers now speculate that it will be 2 or 3 years before the restoration of the complex is completed.

© Paul Gilbert. 14 August 2023

“The Holy Tsar prays for Russia at the Throne of God” – Pyotr Multatuli

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: historian and author Pyotr [Peter] Valentinovich Multatuli

In the year marking the 105th anniversary of the deaths and martydom of the Russian Imperial Family, Pyotr Multatuli took part in this years Divine Liturgy, which was celebrated on the night of 16/17 July, on the square in front of the Church on the Blood in Ekaterinburg.

During a press conference held in Ekaterinburg last month – Multatuli, who has been regular participant of Tsar’s Days in the Ural capital for more than a decade – was asked about the importance of Tsar’s Days in the history of the Russian Orthodox Church – the Urals in particular.

“Tsar’s Days is our repentance before the Holy Tsar-Martyr Nicholas II and his family. What is repentance? Repentance comes from the Greek word metanoia – changing one’s mind or a transformative change of heart; especially: a spiritual conversion . . . We must radically change our view, our attitude towards Emperor Nicholas II and his family, who were brutally murdered by the Bolsheviks, who, above all, were a kind, loving and charitable family.

“Emperor Nicholas II did a lot for Russia, yet he continues to be slandered. Tsar’s Days are not only repentance for the brutal murder of the Imperial Family, but a radical change that must come to the people” – said Pyotr Valentinovich. — “If it does not come, if we do not have a radical change in our attitude towards the Sovereign, and our Lord will charge us for the absence of this repentance. That is why it is so important to be here in Ekaterinburg for the Divine Liturgy, to take part in the Cross Procession, and praying to the Holy Royal Family.

“It is impossible for me not to come to Ekaterinburg in during Tsar’s Days. Wherever I am: whether I am working or resting at home in Moscow – I always come here during these July days, I consider it my moral duty and responsibility to be here in the Urals.

“In addition, it was here in Ekaterinburg, that my great-grandfather Ivan Mikhailovich Kharitonov, the senior cook of the imperial kitchen, was murdered along with the Tsar and his family in the Ipatiev House, so for me, of course, I have a personal connection to Tsar’s Days.

Pyotr Multatuli also reflected on why the atrocity committed 105 years ago is today a feat of the Royal Martyrs for us.

“On the site where the Holy Royal Family were murdered, the beautiful Church on the-Blood now stands, where members of the Imperial Family are glorified as saints, and at Ganina Yama where the regicides threw the bodies of the Imperial Family into a mine shaft, a monastery today shines” – noted the historian. — “We see that the Church of Christ now stands on the blood of the martyrs. It is during Tsar’s Days that we must think not only about the atrocity which took place here more than a century ago, but more importantly about the feat of our Holy Tsar and his family. This is especially relevant now, when our Motherland is living through troubled times, and the Holy Tsar Nicholas Alexandrovich prays for Russia at the throne of God.

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Peter Valentinovich Multatuli was born in Leningrad on 17th November 1969. He is a Russian journalist, historian and author. Multatuli is regarded as Russia’s foremost authority on the life and reign of Emperor Nicholas II. He is a prolific author of numerous books on Russia’s much slandered Tsar, and a regular guest and speaker on talk shows, documentaries and conferences.

He is the great-grandson of Ivan Mikhailovich Kharitonov (1872-1918), who served as the Head Cook of the Imperial family. He followed the tsar and his family into exile, and was murdered along with them in the Ipatiev House on 17th July 1918.

© Paul Gilbert. 14 August 2023

Alexander Palace marks it’s second anniversary

Posted on by Paul Gilbert

PHOTO: view of the eastern wing of the Alexander Palace

On this day – 13th August 2021 – the Alexander Palace at Tsarskoye Selo reopened, after an extensive restoration which began in the autumn of 2015. The Russian media were invited to tour the recreated apartments of Emperor Nicholas II and Empress |Alexandra Feodorovna, located in the eastern wing of the Alexander Palace. The palace welcomed its first visitors the following day on 14th August.

During the past 2 years, the Tsarskoye Selo State Museum restored one additional interior and recreated a number of items lost from the Alexander Palace during the Second World War . . .

In September 2022 – a luxurious 100 square meter French-made Savonnerie carpet was recreated for Empress Alexandra’s Corner Reception Room.

In February 2023 – the Marble [Mountain] Hall – which is part of the ceremonial enfilade – officially opened it’s doors to visitors for the first time in 80 years. The restored interior also includes the recreated wooden slide, which was enjoyed by members of the Russian Imperial Family.

In May 2023 – a large stand for palm tree and other large plants was recreated for the Maple Drawing Room. In addition, an L-shaped desk and ottoman were recreated for the Working Study of Nicholas II.

In June 2023 – an ottoman was recreated for the Working Study of Emperor Nicholas II. The large Persian Farahan carpet has been recreated by modern Iranian craftsmen using traditional technologies.

The price tag for the first stage of the Alexander Palace restoration was $30 million USD. The project is the result of the colossal work of hundreds of people, including designers, architects, restorers, museum workers and dozens of organizations.

The Western wing is scheduled for completion no earlier than 2024. After the completion of the work, the Alexander Palace will become a multifunctional museum complex, which will include exhibition halls, halls for temporary exhibitions, halls for research work and conferences, as well as a library and a children’s center. The basement floor will house a ticket booth, a museum shop, a café, a cloakroom, a tour desk, as well as technical and ancillary facilities.

© Paul Gilbert. 13 August 2023

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Dear Reader: I have written more than 100 articles and news updates on the history and restoration of the Alexander Palace at Tsarskoye Selo. If you have enjoyed all my updates, then please help supvport my research by making a donation in US dollars – donations can be made by PayPal or credit card. Click HERE to make a donation. Thank you for your consideration – PG