Historic Conference Centres of Europe welcomes a 14th member country, Russia. From 1May 2007, The National Congress Palace in St. Petersburg has become HCCE’s 25th member for an initial period of three years. 

The centre, also known as the Konstantinovsky Palace, dates back to 1715, when Tsar Peter I ordered the construction of foundations for a palace and park in Strelna. The restored National Congress Palace houses permanent sections of the State Hermitage: the Museum of Heraldry and the Museum of Awards and Decorations. One of the high-ranking international events that took place at this centre was the G8 Summit in July 2006. 

Mrs. Elena Hindikaine, Deputy General Director of External Affairs at the Palace, explains why joining HCCE was significant: “Entering the Historic Conference Centres of Europe is a very important step that we expect will create opportunities for more efficient promotion on the international MICE market not only for the National Congress Palace but also for the City of St. Petersburg in general. HCCE membership will allow the NCP to take a closer look at Europe’s great experiences in the MICE industry, use them and thus promote more actively the highest standards.”

The Palace combines the functions of a state residence, a congress centre and a great venue for cultural events and feasts for max. 250 people in a theatre style, as well as 1000 sqm exhibition space. There are also flexible alternatives for 1000-1500 participants in an open air set-up in the summer and 700 delegates in a separate marquee (April-Nov).

“To welcome a prestigious venue such as the National Congress Palace in St. Petersburg to our HCCE network is in itself an important historic event for our association”, says Walter Straub, President of the Historic Conference Centres of Europe. “We have opened our doors to a new destination renowned for its culture, art and international events. HCCE is confident that the National Congress Palace will feel at home in our group of 24 other exclusive quality centres. We are looking forward to a long and successful partnership.”

For meeting planners who are interested in the Hermitage art or heritage locations, HCCE can now supply both!