The film, dedicated to the life and fate of the great Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin, covers key moments of his journey — from his early years at the Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum to the tragic duel that ended his life. Filming took place in unique historical locations in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region, many of which opened their doors to filmmakers for the first time. Among the locations are the Palace Stables in Peterhof, as well as the Rose Pavilion in Pavlovsk Park, known for its refined architecture. A significant part of the scenes was filmed in magnificent palaces such as the Yusupov, Stroganov, and Marble Palaces, each a gem of Russia's cultural heritage. Some episodes were shot at the State Archive of the Navy and in the courtyard of the State Academic Capella. Special attention was given to places associated with Pushkin's life and work: the Memorial Museum-Apartment at 12 Moika River Embankment, where the poet spent his last days, and the Mikhailovskoye Museum-Reserve, which became the final point of the filming process. Each of these locations not only helped recreate the environment in which Pushkin lived but also became a character in its own right, conveying the atmosphere and aesthetics of a bygone era.

Filming Locations:

Capella Courtyard

In the Film

Scene where a special atmosphere reigns at the State Academic Capella — the evening light of lamps fills the space with a warm glow, illuminating the facades of the exquisite building. People gradually gather, talking animatedly. Anticipation is clearly noticeable — a feeling of an upcoming event hangs in the air.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in the courtyard of the State Academic Capella building in St. Petersburg, located on the Moika River Embankment. The Capella courtyard is a spacious and cozy area hidden from the city bustle. It is paved with cobblestones preserved from the time of construction, adding historical charm to the place. The facade of the building is decorated with laconic decor characteristic of the Classicism era: elegant pilasters, large windows with arched tops, and a strict cornice give the structure a majestic yet refined appearance.

The River

In the Film

Scene where the frozen river has turned into a kind of road along which people walk. The ice is covered with a thin layer of fresh snow, glittering under the dim light of the winter sun. Along the banks, boats are lined up, thickly covered with snow and ice.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on one of the most picturesque waterways of St. Petersburg. This narrow and winding river, about 5 kilometers long, runs through the heart of the city, framing architectural masterpieces of the 18th–19th centuries. The banks of the Moika are lined with granite and adorned with elegant cast-iron railings characteristic of the city's architecture of that time. Along the river are historic buildings such as palaces, mansions, and apartment houses that preserve the atmosphere of St. Petersburg in Pushkin's time. One of the main attractions on its bank is the famous Peter the Great's Cabin and Pushkin's Memorial Apartment at 12 Moika.