In 1775, the Russian Empress Catherine II visited Moscow to commemorate the anniversary of the victory over Turkey in the war of 1768-1774. To mark the occasion, a huge celebration was held on a field. The pavilions were designed in a "Gothic" style, and the Empress was so impressed with them that she decided to build a residence there. The building, which was acquired just a month before, was designed to replace the wooden structures of the Kantemir's estate. It was thought to be the perfect summer getaway for her and her entourage.