From Linda Garrison,
Your Guide to Cruises.
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The Hermitage Pavilions sits a short distance away from Catherine Palace and is one of two garden pavilions on the grounds of the palace. The concept of the Hermitage Pavilion was to be a place of solitary abode or entertainment for the royals. Rastrelli's design made the Hermitage Pavilion much like a miniature palace.

One of the most interesting features of this place of respite was the use of mechanisms to raise tables already set with meals into the Central Hall of the upper floor. Guests would be amusing themselves and chatting when suddenly the floors would open and exquisite dishes appear to everyone's delight.