Peter II

Catherine I died on the eve of the third anniversary of her coronation. On the next day, that is on May 7 the imperial palace became the venue of all members of tsarist family, the generals, as well as of the members of Supreme Secret Council, Senate and Synod. They have read out the testament of deceased Empress that stated delegation of the imperial power to Peter Alexeyevich. Everybody, who assisted said venue and the Guards, have taken the oath of allegiance to the new Emperor.

According to one of the versions Peter II wanted to set off immediately to Moscow for coronation but the prince Menshikov prevented this deed, because he preferred to have new tsar closer at hand and to keep him «before his very eyes». In October of 1727 there have been issued two decrees, from which it is possible to presume that coronation ceremony has been planned on forthcoming autumn. Yet Peter II departure to Moscow for coronation ceremony took place only after Menshikov’s downfall.

By the end of the year there have started preparations of the court for departure. The solemn entrance to Moscow took place only on February 4, 1728. The coronation ceremony proper proceeded in conformity with respective ranking, established for the persons, belonging to the regal ranks, as early as during the reign of tsar Fiodor Alexeyevich. The coronation procedure imitated the ceremony of 1724. However, for the first time the traditional imperial regalia, namely the mantle, made of golden brocade with embroidered eagles and lined with ermine fur, as well as the orb, scepter and brilliant crown have been supplemented with solemn carrying out of the national banner, sword and seal. Moreover, they have added the diamond chain with the order of St. Andrew the First-Called to the imperial mantle. The coronation ceremony was handled by the archbishop Theofan of Novgorod.

On the occasion of these festivities, there have been staged special refreshments and entertainments for the people and «they have burned down multiple fireworks on the Tsaritsyn meadow». In addition, 37 persons have been granted higher ranks, while common people have been condoned certain arrears and fines, as well as certain part of the poll taxes and they have been granted legal relief of certain punishments. In Saint Petersburg, the coronation ceremony was marked with particular solemnity and at the Academy of Sciences it took place respective solemn assembly.