The collection of scientific articles was prepared based on the materials of reports read in March 2014 at the XX International Dashkov Readings. The authors consider issues related to the development of science, education, literature and painting of the Enlightenment and the subsequent Golden Age of Russian culture. Much attention is paid to the legacy of E.R. Dashkova, as well as contributions to the history and culture of the Vorontsov family and contemporaries of the princess.