Like the palaces of Pavlovsk, Peterhof, Tsarskoye Selo, Lomonosov, then called Oranienbaum, was a summer residence of the Tsars - a complex of several palaces, pavilions and domestic offices set in the large park.

Oranienbaum was renamed Lomonosov after the 18th century Russian scientist and polymath, who established mosaic manufactories here. The older name of Oranienbaum refers to the orangeries attached to the palace The Chinese palace (1762-68) was built by Rinaldi for Catherine the Great. The exterior has no Chinese features. Some of the rooms are certainly in Chinese Rococo style and others show Oriental influence. Although the interior of the palace, which has been preserved almost intact, is elegant and attractive Catherine the Great is said to have spent only 48 days here during her 34-year reign. Anyhow, the interior of the palace is particularly rich and authentic.