Page 174 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Estonia Latvia & Lithuania

172  LA T VIA REGION B Y REGION

3 Rundāle Palace

Designed by Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli (1700–71),
Rundāle is one of the finest palaces in the Baltic region. Work
began in 1736 on a Baroque summer residence for Ernst
Johann Biron, but was left unfinished when he was exiled.
Following Biron’s return, the interiors were reno vated in the
Rococo style. Biron’s son removed most of the furnishings
when he left in 1795, after Courland was annexed by Russia.
The structure suffered damage during the 20th century, and
the rooms have served as an elementary school and a
granary. Restoration began in 1972 and is still in progress.
Detail, Rose Room
Rococo touches, such as fake
marble, silver detailing and floral
motifs, adorn the room.

. Duke’s Bedroom
This room was the focal point of
Biron’s private apartments, which
occupied the central
block of the palace.

The Corner Room
The Russian Neo-Classical style reflects the
taste of Count Zubov, who inhabited the . Gold Hall
palace after Courland was absorbed into The initials of the palace’s owner, “EJ”, can be
the Russian Empire. seen amid the ornate gilt scrolls.
For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp301–302 and pp322–4

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