In October 1890, the 22-year-old heir to the Russian throne, Nikolai Alexandrovich Romanov, the future Emperor Nicholas II, went on a great eastern journey as part of the traditional training program for members of the royal family. Moving by rail and on the cruiser “Pamiat Azova”, the Tsesarevich visited the countries of Asia and the East, covering more than 50,000 kilometers.
His journey ended prematurely on the orders of his father, Emperor Alexander III, after an assassination attempt on Nicholas in Otsu, Japan. The heir suffered two blows to the head with a samurai saber — his life was out of danger, but according to the medical report a two-centimeter bone fragment was extracted from his head.
Nikolai Alexandrovich was returning to the capital via Siberia. Preparations for the meeting of the distinguished guest had begun in Krasnoyarsk several months before his arrival. A gilded carved armchair with the coat of arms of Russia was commissioned for the future emperor. Its design was ceremonial and palatial. Rich upholstery, gilding and excessive decoration gave it a solemn look.
The last Russian emperor arrived in Krasnoyarsk on July 1 (13), 1891. After passing Beryozovka, the Tsesarevich boarded the steamship “Saint Nicholas”, which crossed the river and docked at the wharf near the modern river station. Accompanied by a Cossack sotnia, the Tsar’s cortege entered Krasnoyarsk through a festive triumphal arch decorated with garlands of fresh flowers. A prayer service was served in the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God, after which the heir to the throne, together with his entourage, went to the house of merchant Gadalov for breakfast.
After a short rest, Nikolai Alexandrovich paid a
visit to the men’s theological school and then to the women’s gymnasium. After
tea the guests went to the men’s gymnasium, and later to the military camp and
the exhibition at the Public Assembly. The last item on the program was a visit
to the Diocesan College for Women. At 18:00 a gala dinner was held in the city
garden. Early the next day Nikolai Alexandrovich continued his journey: he was
expected and warmly welcomed in many cities of Siberia.
