15.11.2024 — 23.02.2025 The Moscow Kremlin Museums present a grand new exhibition project dedicated to the heirs of Peter the Great and the participants in palace coups. The exhibition covers the period from the accession of Empress Catherine I to the throne in 1725, after the death of her husband, to the assassination of Emperor Paul I at the Mikhailovsky Castle as a result of a conspiracy in March 1801. This period is often referred to as the era of "palace storms," as over three-quarters of a century, power in the Russian Empire repeatedly changed hands violently, with none of the legitimate heirs managing to hold onto the throne. The longest reign of the 18th century was that of Empress Catherine II, who had the least claim to the Russian throne. Fourteen Russian museums, archives, and libraries have contributed to this project. Over 250 unique artifacts and rare archival documents are displayed in the One-Pillar Chamber of the Patriarch's Palace and the Assumption Belfry, including the original will of Empress Catherine I, violated by the Supreme Secret Council, and the famous "Conditions" torn apart by Empress Anna Ioannovna, which mark the first failed attempt to limit autocracy in Russia. The exhibition highlights regalia such as the crowns of Empresses Catherine I and Anna Ioannovna, imperial attire including Emperor Peter II's coronation costume and guard officer's uniform, and Empress Catherine II's formal uniform dress. Some artifacts are directly tied to the most vivid chapters in the history of palace coups. For instance, the exhibit features a grenadier cap worn annually by Empress Elizabeth Petrovna to celebrate her accession to power, her colonel's insignia with a golden sword, and the guard officer's uniform with the St. Andrew's sash worn by Grand Duchess Catherine Alexeevna, the future Empress Catherine II, on the day of the coup. Particularly poignant are personal items belonging to Emperor Paul I, used the day before his tragic death. The Guard played a crucial role in 18th-century political struggles: visitors can view uniforms, ammunition, and weapons of the guard regiments, including rare early specimens such as the ceremonial uniform of the Life-Company Guard that installed Elizabeth Petrovna on the throne and the equipment of the Holstein troops of Emperor Peter III. The exhibition is open from 10:00 to 17:00, except Thursdays.