Paul hated his mother Catherine so the Tauride Palace became synonymous with his hatred - it was looted by Paul and then neglected. Many interiors deteriorated beyond repair. He turned it into a barracks and stables for the Horse Guards. Alexander I restored the palace although it was so defaced that it had to be practically rebuilt.
Since that time it was used to accommodate foreign ambassadors and princes.
Later in the 19th century the gardens between the main facade and the Neva were sold and factories and water towers began to obstruct the river approach.
In 1905 it was again remodelled for the Imperial Duma.
