Peterhof is one of the oldest summer residences in the vicinity of St.Petersburg. Peterhof means "Peter’s Court". It was founded in 1710, when the Peter and Paul Fortress lost its military significance, and Peter the Great started to build another fortress on Kotlin Island to protect St.Petersburg from the city.

Peterhof, a series of palaces and gardens in Russia's is known by some as the "Russian Versailles," and features the the Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain, and many other and very interesting and unique water fountains that require no pumps.

Located on the steep slope in front of the palace the Grand Cascade of 64 fountains embellished with bronze sculptures and bas-reliefs dedicated to Russia’s victories in the Northern war. In the center of the cascade there is the famous sculptural group "Samson tearing the lion’s jaws", symbolizing the victory of Russia over Sweden.