To look at the palace now, you'd never know that the Russian army liberated a smoking ruin back in 1944. Within and without the palace has been restored to such an extent that Maria Feodorovna could walk back in through the front doors and immediately take up her domestic life without even a blink. Her bedroom and library are stunning works of craftsmanship and beauty while several rooms and enclaves reflect Paul’s obsession with the military and penchant for Roman classicism. Art objects and personal effects, such as the toiletry set presented to the Empress by Marie Antoinette, abound and there's even a costume display. Together these rooms and objects paint a portrait of 18th century aristocracy that is both opulent and intimate.