Grand Cascade

The Grand Cascade in the Lower Park of Peterhof was built in 1714–1724 simultaneously with the palace, serving as a kind of pedestal for it, and its fountains were ceremoniously launched in August 1723. The idea of creating a formal sea entrance with a palace and a cascade at its foot belonged to Peter I. The decoration of the structure includes 37 bronze gilded statues, 16 vases, and 29 bas-reliefs, with a total of 225 sculptures made of bronze, lead, and marble. During holidays, the cascade becomes a stage for costumed performances.