Catherine Palace
Catherine I of Russia began the building of the palace in 1717. She hired the German architect Johann-Friedrich Braunstein to create the summer palace. In 1733, Empress Anna added to the palace.  Then in 1752 Empress Elizabeth had the palace torn down.  It was rebuilt in a Rococo style.  More than 100 kilograms of gold were used.  Many statues on the roof were covered in gold.