Mikhailovsky Castle, in the middle of St Petersburg, is unlike anything else found in Russia. It is a fairy tale medieval castle complete with moats and drawbridges. It was designed by the paranoid Tsar Pavel I of the Romanov family dynasty and later housed a young Fyodor Dostoevsky. Inside there are walls of marble, wide gentle stairways, and dark corridors with hidden escape routes. It is a peculiar place, perfect for a palace coup. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook (@secret.passages.pod). Get in touch at https://www.secretpassagespodcast.com/. Researched, written, and produced by E.S. Rodenbiker. Cover art by @game.of.pricks.