The northern capital attracts the attention of tourists from all over the world. Significant historical monuments are located here. Their list includes the legendary Oranienbaum botanical garden, numerous cathedrals, museums and other interesting places. Architectural masterpieces are striking in their originality and elegance. Other sights of St. Petersburg are also of interest.
Pilgrims come to the city on the Neva to touch the holy relics. Here you will also find modern facilities that will fascinate you with their grandeur. This is a real treasure for those who want to get acquainted with something unusual and unique.
Palace Square
Today it is the heart of the city, a place that tourists must visit. And once there was a meadow overgrown with grass. Here festivities were held, pavilions and temporary fountains were erected, from which wine was spewed out. And only in the 18th century the modern appearance of the square began to take shape.
Dvortsovaya was not only built, but also reconstructed. During the last work, the foundations of Anna Ioannovna's wing were discovered. Archaeologists studied the find, then the base was filled up again.
Palace Square is a wide space, the formal border of which is the Palace Passage. The Arch of the General Staff is the main entrance to the territory. All significant events are held here today. It is here that military parades are held on Victory Day, a Christmas tree is installed on New Year's Eve, and a laser show is arranged.
Winter Palace
The majestic palace building, striking in size and splendor of the Baroque, is the main symbol of the city. The ambitious heiress of Peter I, Elizabeth, ordered the construction of a royal palace that could outshine European counterparts. The Empress herself did not have to live in it, and Catherine II became the first owner of the Winter Palace.
The magnificent palace is the main one in the series of the palace complex of the Hermitage. It will take a lot of time to inspect all of its premises. It is difficult to overestimate the scale of the richest heritage stored in this space. On the 1st floor, of interest are the collections of archaeological finds housed in the rooms of the heiresses of the last emperor.
The interiors of the rooms are a kind of decor monument of the 19th century. The decoration of the halls of the 2nd floor is amazing: Tronny, Petrovsky and Bolshoi. They showcase the art of Western Europe. The expositions on the 3rd floor introduce the culture, traditions and way of life of the Asian peoples.
Here are exhibited rarities of the Buddhist religion, varieties of frescoes, stone idols, fragments of decor from Khorezm. It is impossible to leave the Winter Palace, filled with man-made wonders, indifferent.
- Address: Palace Square, 2
- Opening hours: Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday 11:00 - 19:00, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday
11:00 - 20:00, closed on Monday - Price: 500 rub.
State Hermitage
The world famous museum complex, located on the embankment of the Neva, consists of 6 buildings, each of which is a magnificent architectural monument of the 18-19th centuries. Founded by the progressive Empress Catherine II in the 18th century. the art museum today includes 365 showrooms. The richest collection of the Hermitage contains almost 3 million works of world art from different eras.
To inspect each exhibit, you need to devote more than one month or even a year to this. It is impossible to convey in words the emotions that you experience at the sight of the famous masterpieces of painting, sculpture, and objects of applied art. The Hermitage is the pride and heritage of Russia, a symbol of its power and high culture.
Until the middle of the 19th visit to the Hermitage was available only to a select few. The museum was opened for the general public in 1852, with the building of the New Hermitage for this purpose. In the 19th century, art critic A.I.Somov played a huge role in replenishing museum funds and compiling catalogs.
The entire palette of artistic creativity is presented in the richest collection of the megamuseum, from the era of primitive man to the present day. Objects of Scythian gold, ceramics, jewelry made of bronze, silver, unique archaeological finds illustrate the periods of human development. The collection of paintings, sculptures, graphics reflects almost all areas of art from different countries of the world.
- Address: Palace Square, 2
- Working hours: Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday - 11:00 - 19:00, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday - 11:00 - 20:00
- Price: 500 rub.
Nevsky Prospect
The main street of the city is a place of living history of the city and Russia. Literally every meter of its sidewalks and pavements remembers the epochal events of the country, the legendary personalities of the world scale. Nevsky Prospect excited the imagination of Russian poets, writers, artists, composers; admired and continues to delight foreign guests.
The 5-kilometer avenue has something to be proud of and something to captivate tourists. The most significant objects, architectural masterpieces are located on Nevsky and adjacent squares and streets. A walk along the main thoroughfare of the northern capital - immersion in the history and culture of the past and present, acquaintance with the architectural styles.
The famous bridges over the Fontanka, Moika and Griboyedov Canal will reveal their secrets. On the Anichkov Bridge, learn about the history of Klodt's world-famous equestrian sculpture. Impressive views of the palace complex on the eponymous square. At the monument to the progressive Empress Catherine II, you can relax on a cozy bench and at the same time admire the facade of the Alexandria Theater.
Many go to the Literary Cafe, where Pushkin loved to be the beacon of Russian poetry. You cannot ignore the Stroganov Palace, visit the Chocolate Museum on its 1st floor and refresh yourself with a sweet delicacy. Few people pass by Gostiny Dvor, Kazan Cathedral and other outstanding monuments.
Saint Isaac's Cathedral
Recognized as the heaviest cathedral in the city. The grandiose structure was built over 40 years. Pouring the foundation took 5 years. Only these facts speak about the scale of the building. There is a version that the price of malachite fell sharply after the completion of the construction of the cathedral. This was due to the fact that the columns were erected from this stone. All supplies have been spent. Extraction became unpromising and malachite lost its value.
The shrine was not damaged either during the years of Soviet power or during the days of the Leningrad blockade. The communists decided to leave the building and convert it into an anti-religious museum. And the Germans used the domes as a reference point and did not seek to destroy the object.
There is a legend. According to legend, the Romanov dynasty should have ceased to exist at the moment when the scaffolding was removed from the cathedral. They were filmed in 2016. A few months later, Nicholas II abdicated from power.
Now it houses the collections of the Northern Museum. There is an observation deck on the colonnade of the shrine. A staircase of 262 steps leads to it. Those who have overcome the path will never be able to forget the sight of Peter sprawled below. Divine services are also held here.
It is especially crowded on the days of Orthodox holidays. Crowds of believers rush to give praise to the Lord. You can visit for free, but you will have to pay to enter the territory of the museum objects.
- Address: St. Isaac's Square, 4
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 00-18: 00
- Price: 100/350 rub. (child / adult)
Summer garden
It is noteworthy that the modern Summer Garden is located in the same place as at the time of Peter 1. The Emperor ordered to build a kind of Dutch park around his summer residence. True, the garden in those years was called a vegetable garden.
The oldest city park was planned according to the laws of landscape design:
- the territory was divided by alleys into bosquets
- installed statues
- broke the flower beds
- built aviaries for birds
- dug fish ponds
- arranged fountains
Trees and bushes were by all means trimmed. Flowers were planted in a certain range. And the linden alleys were so shady that they needed lighting in the daytime. But pretty soon the Summer Garden fell into decay. They began to look after him less. And the townspeople fell in love with the slightly neglected territory, they began to often walk in the park.
During the blockade, beds were laid out in the Summer Garden, where schoolchildren, under the guidance of teachers, grew vegetables. And since then one of the alleys is called Shkolnaya. At the beginning of the 21st century, the Summer Garden changed its owner. This time, it was the Russian Museum. Another reconstruction took place, and the park is again open for walks.
Address: Kutuzov embankment, 2.
Peterhof
The idea to build a palace and park ensemble on the seashore, similar to the European ones, and at the same time one that has no equal, belonged to Peter 1. Surprisingly, it took only 13 years to implement such a large-scale plan of the emperor. In 1762, Peterhof became a city located in the Palace Department. In the 19th century, the Peterhof district was formed. There were gymnasiums in the district center, and a railway was built for a convenient access.
After the October Revolution, the complex was nationalized. The territory housed museums and sanatoriums for the proletariat. But the artifacts were saved. During the Nazi occupation, the ensemble was badly damaged. It was not possible to evacuate part of the collection; garden sculptures were buried in the ground without conservation. They were subsequently destroyed.
After the liberation, Peterhof was renamed Petrodvorets. So the Soviet authorities eradicated the connection of the first name with the German language. It was not possible to fully restore the structures. This is especially true of the Lower Park. But the famous fountains, Peter's nursery rhymes and amazing palaces still welcome visitors. It should be borne in mind that in the rain most of the exhibitions are closed.
The fountains open in mid-May and end in mid-September. It is important to note that the numbers are arbitrary. Since everything depends on the weather, the colder it is, the earlier it closes, and the warmer it is, vice versa. Therefore, before your vacation, be sure to check the opening times of the fountains.
- Address: st. Razvodnaya, 2, Peterhof
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 30-17: 00
- Price: 450 rubles, children under 16 - free
You can get there in 3 ways:
- By train. From the Baltic railway station (metro station Baltiyskaya) to the station New Peterhof. And then by paths to the main architectural complex of the city.
- By minibus / bus. Stops are located at the station. m. Baltiyskaya, Leninsky Prospect, Avtovo, Veterans Avenue. The car stop in Peterhof is located right next to the main entrance to the park.
- For tourists, one of the most interesting ways to get to Peterhof is by water boat. Since the meteor route passes along the Neva and the Gulf of Finland. The boat moors to the fountains.
It is better to visit the parks in the morning on weekdays, in early June and early September. However, due to the seasonality and short opening hours, not only guests of the city, but also local residents want to enjoy the fountains. In this connection, there are almost always queues to enter the lower park.
Kazan Cathedral
Included in the list of the largest cathedrals in the city. Within its walls is kept the great shrine of the Orthodox - the Icon of the Mother of God. The image is considered miraculous. Parishioners believe that everyone who touches the face will be healed. The history of the sacred icon is interesting. The Mother of God appeared in a dream to Matrona of Moscow as a child. She indicated the place where the icon is. They found her there.
The setting of the image is decorated with jewels. They tried to steal the icon more than once. But she always returned to her native walls. Emperor Paul I in 1801 issued a decree in which he ordered the construction of a temple in St. Petersburg. The cathedral was intended to store the Miraculous Icon. The monastery was built over 10 years. A. Voronikhin was the author of the project.
The cathedral was erected by thousands of workers. Working conditions were extremely difficult. Despite everything, the cathedral was erected. Its height is over 71 meters. Especially impressive are the majestic columns. Each of them weighs almost 30 tons. The grand opening took place on the eve of the war with the French. Later, the conquered banners and standards will be stored here.
Now the cathedral is ranked among the monuments of Russian military glory. Divine services are held daily in the church. Anyone can visit them. Excursions are organized for tourists.
- Address: Kazanskaya square, 2
- Working hours: Mon-Fri 08: 45-19: 45; Sat, Sun 06: 30-19: 45
Mosaic patio
The controversy about this unusual art object has not subsided for a long time. Some visitors are delighted, while others talk about uselessness and pretentiousness. That is why it is worth visiting the Mosaic Courtyard to make your own impression.
The object began to be created over 25 years ago. Artist Vladimir Lubenko opened a school for children in the city. and at the very first lesson it was decided to decorate the courtyard with mosaics. Little schoolchildren took an active part in the creation of the project.
Lubenko used marble, tiles, smalt. Everything went into business: even porcelain cups and plates. Not indifferent residents brought unnecessary dishes. And after a certain time the yard was decorated with the first mosaic.
Today in the open air there are:
- wall depicting major events in the history of the Northern capital
- Atlanteans propping up the firmament
- sundial, the dial of which is adorned with the signs of the zodiac
- singing fountain mother and child
- lion benches
The main part of the composition is the Olympic Mosaic. Here you can see illustrations to legends and fairy tales of the peoples of the world. And if you arrive before 10 pm, you can visit the Vladimir Lubenko Gallery.
Address: st. Tchaikovsky, building 2/7.
Alexandrinsky theater
It got its name in honor of the wife of Emperor Nicholas I - Alexandra Feodorovna, but affectionately referred to as "Alexandria", apparently out of respect for the centuries-old history of the theater of ancient Egypt.
However, this is not the only interesting fact. The second name of the theater is the Russian State Academic Drama Theater named after the outstanding Russian poet, Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. It is not difficult to notice that Alexandra Feodorovna and Alexander Sergeevich are namesakes, in this regard, confusion often arises, and many attribute the name of the theater to a completely different person.
But no matter how the guests call him, their opinions undoubtedly agree on one thing - the interior and exterior of the theater, its entourage and exciting performances will not leave indifferent even the most inveterate theatergoer. The theater has 2 stages - an old one and a new one.
The old stage is located in the historical center of the city at pl. Ostrovsky 6. Working hours: from 9 am to 6 pm. New stage - Embankment r. Fontanka 49 A. Working hours: from 11 am to 8 pm. Break with a break from 14 to 15 hours.
Both buildings are located in the historical center of the city and are located near its main artery - Nevsky Prospect. The main stage of the Alexandrinsky Theater is adjacent to such masterpieces of architecture as Anichkov Palace and Garden, Ekaterininsky Square.
You can get there from the sm. Gostiny Dvor or Nevsky Prospect and go towards the uprising square.
Kunstkamera
The first Russian museum, founded on the initiative of Peter the Great in 1714, was created as a repository of unusual items. The name Kunstkamera is translated from German as “cabinet of rarities”. The first exhibits of the new establishment were a personal collection of Peter's wonders. The collection included unique items related to anatomy, mineralogy, zoology and of scientific value.
Various rarities were brought here from all corners of the country, the institution made its contribution to the development of science and education. Today, the Kunstkamera is housed in an amazingly beautiful Baroque building (1734), which is the oldest museum building in the world.
Officially has the status of a museum of anthropology and ethnography. His funds contain over 1.2 million rarities. The thematic halls display exhibits characterizing the culture and life of the peoples of different countries: Japanese, Chinese, Mongols, Indians, Australians, etc.
Here you can see extraordinary tools of labor, objects of applied art, natural phenomena, weapons. The Anatomical Hall, which demonstrates physiological and anatomical deformities, the consequences of mutation and genetic abnormalities, is of great interest. Particularly impressionable people are not recommended to visit the Anatomy Hall.
- Address: Universitetskaya emb., 3
- Opening hours: Tue-Sun 10: 00-17: 00
- Price: 100/300 rub. (Children Adults)
You can get there in 2 ways:
From the metro station Admiralteyskaya, walk across the palace and exchange bridge and find yourself at the threshold of the museum (20 minutes) or by transport: trolleybuses - 10.11; buses - 24, 7. From the Vasileostrovskaya metro station, walking along the middle avenue and the Kadetskaya line (about 15 minutes) or by transport: buses 24 and 3 M.
As in other museums in the city, the most profitable days to visit are weekdays, the best time is morning. It is also recommended to choose the periods in which the tourist flow is least of all - this is November, February - April.
Trinity Izmailovsky Cathedral
The cathedral was built from 1828 to 1835. It is located in the Admiralteisky District and is striking in its scale. Its main dome is visible from a distance of 20 kilometers. The history is closely connected with the Izmailovsky regiment, which was created in 1730 at the direction of Anna Ioannovna.
A wooden temple was originally built. If necessary, it was dismantled. He followed an elite regiment that was renowned for bravery and courage. But in 1824 the city was overtaken by a flood. The church was flooded. Then the current ruler issued a decree to build a new, stone temple.
The talented architect managed to preserve the style inherent in Russian wooden churches. The building was built in the spirit of late classicism with elements of the Empire style. Services were regularly held here. But later the communists came to power, and the building was adapted for other needs.
They even wanted to destroy the cathedral in order to free up space for new buildings. But a war broke out with the fascist conquerors. Trinity Izmailovsky Cathedral was badly damaged during the Leningrad blockade. Later, restorers returned the shrine to its original beauty. Now, parishioners and all those interested in history are also welcome here.
- Address: Izmailovsky Prospect, 7A
- Working hours: Mon-Fri 09: 00-19: 00; Sat 09: 00-20: 00; Sun 06: 00-20: 00
Summer Palace of Peter I
A building with a long history. If you want to visit the walls of the palace that "saw" Peter I himself, then go for a tourist walk to the Summer Garden. It is extremely surprising that the house, founded in 1710, did not care about wars and revolutions - its foundation has been on the ground for more than a dozen years.
Only a few buildings of the city can boast of such a long history. The walls of the Summer Palace are exquisitely decorated with bas-reliefs reminiscent of the brilliant victory of the Russian Empire during the Northern War.
It is worth noting that the victorious motives of the war with Sweden are reflected in more than one building, built by order of Peter I. Named the Summer Palace, the house of Peter I is completely different from the gigantic buildings of the city. Its territory is several tens of square meters, and the number of rooms can be counted on one hand.
The Summer Garden, which surrounds the palace, contains many graceful flowers and plants. This is a real greenhouse, created by Peter I in the Versailles style.
- Address: Summer Garden, letter A. The nearest metro stations are Nevsky Prospekt and Gostiny Dvor.
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 00–20: 00, closed on Tuesday.
- Prices: 200-350 rubles.
Favorable months for visiting the palace itself are March and October, since the flow of tourists in these months is the smallest. However, all the beauty of the Summer Garden can be seen only from May to September.
Mariinsky Palace
Shrouded in a family secret palace, not similar, in terms of interior decoration, to the rest of the imperial residences in the city. The main intrigue is in the question: why is the monument to Nicholas I installed with its back to the palace? Many believe that the emperor's daughter, having a bad character, rejected her father's gift, thereby inflicting a spiritual wound on him. But the facts passed away along with the witnesses of those events, and the palace still adorns the city with its beauty.
For the first time in the history of centuries-old construction in tsarist Russia, the interior decoration of the premises was functional. This became a kind of "know-how" of the 19th century. Materials were specially selected for the intended purpose of the premises. This approach is reflected in later architectural objects.
Mariinsky, the palace was named after the daughter of Emperor Nicholas I, Maria. Here she lived with her husband Duke Maximilian of Leuchtenberg, the grandson of Napoleon himself.
Remembering Mary's bad character, it will not seem surprising that she lived with her foreign husband in St. Petersburg. Although it was customary to leave for the residence to her husband, abroad.
Address: St. Isaac's Square 6.
Mikhailovsky Palace
The palace, which has become a real art gallery, has collected a lot of art canvases by Russian painters. However, even before the opening of the museum, the house of Mikhail Pavlovich, the son of Emperor Paul I, was the cultural center of the capital. It was visited by such famous historical figures as Pushkin, Tyutchev, Bryulov and Aivazovsky. The building, which, from the origins of its creation, carried art into the Petersburg light, could not become anything other than an art museum.
The opening, on the basis of the Mikhailovsky Palace, a Russian museum, took place by order of Nicholas II. His father, Alexander III, during his lifetime wanted to devote the building to the needs of science and create a Kenyan Institute in it. But the house of Mikhail Pavlovich was destined to become not a scientific, but a cultural landmark of the city.
The current building of the museum, almost 2 times, differs in size from its "predecessor". The gallery grew so rapidly that a few years later it became necessary to add a new building to the palace.
- Address: st. Engineering, building 4
- Working hours: Mon-Thu 09: 00-18: 00; Fri 09: 00-17: 00
Museum of the History of St. Petersburg
The Museum of the History of St. Petersburg is not a classical, single building that warmly tells everyone about the fate of the city, it is a whole museum complex, which includes: Peter and Paul Fortress, Oreshek Fortress, Rumyantsev's mansion, the Museum of Printing, etc. The main building is located on the territory of the Peter and Paul fortress.
Unlike its “brothers”, the Museum of the History of St. Petersburg is a contemporary. More than 1 million historical evidence of the city's life is kept within its walls. Moreover, the museum itself is nothing more than another monument of the culture of architecture of the Russian Empire of the 18th century. After all, it was from the hare island, from the walls of the Peter and Paul Fortress, that the construction of the city began.
The building, over the century of its existence, was regularly changed, and the name was renamed. The structure included new objects, creating a whole ensemble of historical monuments. Within its walls, thematic exhibitions, cultural and educational programs, as well as excursion lessons are regularly held.
Any student or adult will be able to lift the veil of the secrets of the foundation of the city and its development from the beginnings of 1703 to the present day. Each object has its own address, but they are all located in the city center, not far from the Peter and Paul Fortress.
The nearest metro stations: Admiralteyskaya, Sportivnaya, Gorkovskaya.
Museum "Grand Model Russia"
Grand Model Russia - private exposition. Here, on an area of about 800 square meters, you can see all the regions of the country, presented to scale. On the walls there are diagrams, tables, diagrams showing the features of the region and economic activities.
You can also see the movement of road and rail transport, harvesting with agricultural machinery, even prisoners escaping. And all this can be controlled by the visitors themselves: they just have to press the selected button on the end of the layout.
For the convenience of guests, they are offered an audio guide. Such a mechanism helps to orientate at the stand. And around there are interactive screens where you can get acquainted with a specific object or historical period.
The technical equipment is organized in accordance with the latest developments. The stand is illuminated by LED lamps, and the objects are powered from the under-model field. Every 13 minutes, there is an automatic change of day and night. And all this is controlled by automation.
The organizers of the exhibition made sure that the guests visited it again. There are thematic expositions, live lessons (which are much more interesting than school ones). There is a room for watching videos. And the birthday, which takes place in the center, will be remembered for a lifetime.
- Address: st. Tsvetochnaya, house 16L
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 00-20: 00
- Prices: 420/680 rub. (child / adult)
Monument to the Bronze Horseman
A horseman, cast in bronze, but called a copper monument, to the founder of St. Petersburg, Peter the Great. He owes his sonorous name to Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin, who created an “ode” about the Bronze Horseman. There are legends that the pedestal is not just the creation of the hands of the talented sculptor-architect Falcone, but a bronze statue of Peter I himself created by magical powers, frozen in this place.
It is extremely interesting that a medal was instituted for the delivery of the Thunder-stone, a piece of rock that served as the basis for the monument. The operation of transporting a stone went down in history, since in all modern times, rocks of this size have not been transported over long distances.
You can contemplate the monument around the clock and completely free of charge. Despite its fundamental importance for the city - there is a legend that the Bronze Horseman protects the city from ill-wishers, the monument is freely available to everyone.
The city felt all the incomprehensible power of its "amulet" during the trials of the 1st and 2nd world wars, as well as revolutions and civil strife. Not a single shell and not a single person attempted to overthrow Peter the Great from their pedestal.
The monument has never been damaged or dismantled, and during its restoration the sculptors-architects noted that the monument is in very good condition. Therefore, you can not worry - the Bronze Horseman will guard the city for more than one century.
Address: Senate Square.
Narva Triumphal Gates
The first gate was built in 1814 as a sign of the victory of the Russian troops over the Napoleonic army. That year, the returning army marched through the gate 4 times. But alabaster and wood were used for the work, so the building quickly deteriorated.
For the construction of a new composition, they chose a place a little further from the original. But more durable materials were used: marble, granite and copper for cladding. It is the copper cladding that is the distinguishing feature of the monument. And in August 1834, Russian troops marched in front of the emperor through the new gate.
The monument had interior rooms. They housed the rarities of the Patriotic War. There is also a guard in the building. The archive of the State Duma was kept in the 19th century. The gate has now been restored. There is an exposition inside. It is noteworthy that you have to climb here along a narrow spiral staircase: it is problematic for two visitors to leave. Outside, guests of the city can see the building, which has returned to its original form.
Address: Stachek Square, 1.
Mikhailovsky castle
The Mikhailovsky Castle was built by order of Paul 1. And the emperor also called the building a castle. The reason is prosaic: the son of Catherine II was passionate about chivalry. The result is a medieval fortress surrounded by water.
This is the only royal residence in Russia made in this style. But the emperor did not live in the new residence for long: it was there that he was killed. Interior finishing works were immediately stopped.
For several years the house stood empty and dilapidated. But the Grand Duke Nikolai Pavlovich petitioned to transfer the castle to the corps of engineers. The petition was granted, and the castle became known as Engineer.
At the time when classrooms and living rooms were located in the palace, legends arose. The most common: the appearance of the ghost of Emperor Pavel Petrovich in the night corridors.
Today the Engineering Castle is a branch of the Russian Museum. In the 90s, the building was transferred to the center. The restoration took several years. The architects managed to restore the external appearance, and the interiors - only partially.
Today, guests can see an exposition of paintings from the era of Paul 1. Works by Russian artists are also presented. But the employees organize thematic exhibitions. They are diverse, and therefore interesting.
- Address: Sadovaya street, 2
- Working hours: Mon, Wed 10: 00-18: 00; Thu 13: 00-21: 00; Fri-Sun 10: 00-18: 00
- Prices: 150-400 rubles.
Erarta Museum
It is the largest private center in the city. Its organizers preached 3 immutable (in their opinion) truths:
- original thinking of the artist
- personal freedom
- different ways of reflecting the life of the new period
The purpose of the exposition is to make people look for answers to eternal questions: who is a person, why does he live, what do eternal feelings represent - happiness, suffering, love? And visitors should be prepared in advance for the fact that searches can be quite unusual.
The permanent exhibition consists of nearly 3,000 works. These are paintings and sculptures of urban art figures. The works of foreign authors corresponding to a given direction are presented. Themed exhibitions are organized in the adjacent wing.
In addition, the administration of the center conducts demonstration of video films, arranges lectures for visitors. Here you can listen to concerts. But it is rather difficult to name the theme of the events. This follows from the general concept: to awaken feelings, through perception and memories.
- Address: 29 lines of Vasilievsky Island, building 2
- Opening hours: daily 10: 00-22: 00, Tuesday - closed
- Price: 1,000 rubles.
Peter-Pavel's Fortress
Like the prime meridian, which is considered the reference point of the geographic coordinates of the globe, the Peter and Paul Fortress is the prime meridian in the history of the city. It is with the laying of a brick on the hare island that the chronicle of St. Petersburg begins.
The historical name of the fortress is Zancht-Pieter-Burh, and the historical value is to defend the city from the attack of the enemy armies of Sweden. The main attraction of the fortress is the Peter and Paul Cathedral. Throughout its history, the fortress has managed to visit both a royal tomb and a holy place of worship. And also one of the worst prisons in the city. Especially dangerous criminals were imprisoned here, as they say - without trial or investigation. The imperial decision was the basis for imprisonment in the fortress.
Today, all representatives of the royal dynasty of the Romanovs are buried in the Cathedral. Many remains were brought to the fortress from all over the world.
- Address: Peter and Paul Fortress 3
- Opening hours: daily, 10:00 to 20:00
- Price: 300/550 rub. (Children Adults)
Savior on Spilled Blood
One of the most mysterious temples, keeping many secrets within its walls. His fate is not easy. During the years of the revolution, the Soviet regime and the war, the building managed to visit a morgue, a vegetable base, as well as a storehouse of decorations for a small opera house. The cathedral has an asymmetric, non-standard form for Russian religious buildings. And its external decoration contrasts with the cathedrals in the style of Ancient Greece, which stately adorn the city.
Despite this, the Church of the Resurrection of Christ (the second name of the cathedral) has more magic signs than any other.Petersburgers and guests of the city could even lose this attraction, if not for a lucky chance - a shell that fell into the dome of the temple during the Second World War simply did not explode. He lay there for 20 years, after which he was found and rendered harmless.
The history of the construction of the temple is more tragic than its fate. The Savior on Spilled Blood was erected at the site of the terrorist attack against Emperor Alexander II, as a result of which he died. But the townspeople believe that his spirit guards the city to this day.
If you decide to visit St. Petersburg at the beginning of summer, during the white nights, then you have a wonderful opportunity to take an evening tour of the temple. They will be held from May 30 to September 1.
- Address: nab. channel Griboyedov 2A
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 00-17: 30, Wednesday - day off
- Price: 100/350 rub. (Children Adults)
Admiralteyskaya embankment
Having lost the "title" of the city's river gates, the embankment has become another attraction of the ceremonial St. Petersburg. Despite its venerable age, the embankment is quite young. Since it was originally a slipway for launching the Admiralty ships under construction.
Time passed, the building of the Admiralty was reconstructed, and with it the adjacent embankment. The main building on the embankment is the Admiralty. Now it is the Dzerzhinsky Naval Institute. The embankment's maritime past is confidently intertwined with its maritime present.
The sights of the Admiralty embankment can be considered its famous houses, namely:
- Panaev's tenement house and theater ("Panaev's Theater")
- buildings of the Noble Bank and the Peasant Bank
- Small Mikhailovsky Palace, etc.
Also worth seeing are the famous lions of the Palace Wharf, located near the Palace Bridge.
Holy Trinity Alexander Nevsky Lavra
The monastery appeared by order of Peter the Great. The Emperor ordered to create a monastery in memory of the exploits of Prince Alexander Nevsky. For this, according to the sovereign's decree, land was allocated. The monastery was designed by Domenico Trezzini.
He realized the plan, according to which the complex should become both a palace and a place where spiritual, educational and charitable work takes place. Soon a printing house and a school started working in the monastery, which later became a Slavic-Greek-Latin seminary.
The monks connected the monastery with the Admiralty. After a while, this road was transformed into Nevsky Prospect. From 1932 to 1996, the monastery housed Soviet institutions. Only in the late 90s, reconstruction began, which continues to this day.
Before nationalization, 12 churches operated on the territory of the monastery. But today services are held only in 3:
- Nikolskaya cemetery church
- Temple of the Holy Blessed Prince Theodore of Novgorod
- Joy of the Gate Church of All Who Sorrow
Visitors can venerate the holy relics, bow to miraculous icons, explore the unique tombstones of the Lazarevskoye cemetery. Work continues on the improvement of the Metropolitan Garden. There are interesting sculptures on the territory of the monastery. A walk through the Lavra will be interesting for both believers and atheists.
- Address: Monastyrka river embankment, building 1
- Opening hours: daily, 5:30 am to 11:00 pm
New Holland
The name is given to the island located in the Admiralteisky district. Under Peter I, the territory was used for ship work. Mostly Dutch craftsmen worked here. That is why the island received such an unusual name. Over time, New Holland fell into desolation. The buildings were crumbling, everything was overgrown with grass. But the city authorities decided to adapt the territory for a recreation area. A park was laid out here, ornamental plants and trees were planted, playgrounds and sports grounds were equipped.
Local residents and guests of the city come here to relax after a hard day, breathe fresh air and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. The lavender garden is a great area for a photo shoot in the summer. It is located in the center of the island. The ponds on the island have also been improved. Chaise lounges and umbrellas were placed around them.
A children's playground "Fregat" is equipped for the entertainment of children. Both kids and older children will find something to do here. In addition, festivals dedicated to music and cinema are held all year round, festive events are organized, and excursions are conducted. It won't be boring here in winter either. Here the skating rink is poured, a Christmas tree is installed, ice and snow figures are erected.
Pay attention to the architecture. Some buildings can be viewed not only from the outside, but also from the inside. Open for visiting:
- "Bottle"
- Forge
- Commandant's house
- Address: nab. Admiralty Canal, 2
- Working hours: Mon-Thu 09: 00-22: 00; Fri-Sun 09: 00-23: 00
Leningrad Zoo
The zoo was founded at the end of the 19th century. Until now, it is the oldest and one of the northernmost zoos in Russia. The original buildings have been destroyed, but during the renovation, the architects adhere to the original layout.
It was originally a private institution. The collection of animals was purchased by the Gebhardts at their own expense. At that time, lions, tigers, bears, parrots and water birds could be seen here. The second husband of Sophia Gebgardt, Rost, turned out to be an excellent businessman: he used the proceeds from the theater and restaurant formed on the territory of the zoo to buy animals and improve them.
After Rost's death, the zoo had to be closed. It was revived in 1910 by Novikov, a theater entrepreneur (now he would be called a producer). Novikov cleared the area, repaired the cages and dug a new bird pond. It is noteworthy that the animals acquired by Novikov are the zoo's long-livers. The elephant died during the 1941 raid, and the hippopotamus lived to see Victory.
In memory of the heroism of the zoo workers during the Great Patriotic War, it will forever remain Leningrad. Today, guests can not only see the animals that live in the zoo. Every month, the staff conduct thematic excursions, lectures and environmental games. And for young visitors, attractions are open throughout the year.
- Address: st. Aleksandrovsky Park, Building 1
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 00-18: 00
- Prices: 200/500 rubles. (Children Adults)
Smolny Cathedral
Many legends are associated with this building. Three curious facts will support the assumption about its uniqueness:
- The temple was erected over 87 years
- Services were conducted here for exactly 87 years (until 1922)
- They resumed again, after 87 years.
The cathedral owes its appearance to the daughter of Peter the Great - Elizabeth. She dreamed of becoming a nun and ordered the construction of the Resurrection Monastery. Later they will call him by his location - Smolny.
The architectural complex is made in the Baroque style, however, like all other creations of the legendary B. Rastrelli. Namely, he became the author of the project.
Under Catherine II, an educational institution for girls was founded here, and later the charity house for widows and noble maidens entered the complex. The construction of the shrine was completed only under Nicholas II. The temple amazed eyewitnesses with its beauty. He was light, as if hovering above the ground, graceful, and at the same time solemn.
The interior interiors were of particular admiration. Gilding, crystal, sculptural compositions looked luxurious. There is a version that there are secret passages under the cathedral. They are created for the urgent evacuation of authorities. Orthodox icons painted on Mount Athos are kept within the walls of the temple.
Since 2016, the temple has been receiving parishioners. The restoration work has not yet been completed. But you can appreciate the beauty and splendor of the building even now.
- Address: Rastrelli Square, 1
- Opening hours: daily, 08: 00-20: 00
Oranienbaum
It is a historic site and a wonderful walking area. On the territory of the palace and park complex there are amazing buildings that remember many historical events, and a magnificent garden.
Visitors are invited to see:
- Menshikov Palace
- Chinese palace
- Picture house
- palace of Peter II
- pavilion "Stone Hall" and other objects
Conventionally, Oranienbaum is divided into Lower Garden and Upper Park. The second part takes up a more impressive area. There is even a river flowing here. Guests love to relax by the ponds, sitting in the shade of dense trees. Also here is the dacha of Empress Catherine the Great.
A walk through the territory takes a whole day. Visitors will be able to get acquainted with the history of the complex, learn the details of the life of famous personalities who once visited it.
- Address: Palace Avenue, 50, Lomonosov
- Opening hours: daily, 09: 00-19: 00
- Prices: Admission is free
Spit of Vasilyevsky Island
Strelka is the confluence of the Bolshaya and Malaya Neva. This place is certainly visited by all tourists. and the locals love it. After marriage, newlyweds must come here for a photo shoot.
A modern monument - an anchor - has been added to the main architectural ensemble, consisting of Rostral columns, an exchange square, a warehouse, and the Exchange building. It was raised from the bottom of Galernaya harbor in 2003. Embossed at anchor: Olonets, 1723. This suggests that Northern Palmyra and the anchor are of the same age.
The Exchange building is unique. It was built like a business building, but it looks like a temple. But the area in front of him is artificial. For this, part of the bottom was reinforced with piles and dumping was made, and a descent to the water was also arranged. The coast has moved, but it has become more comfortable. For some time it was used as a ceremonial pier. Subsequently, a public garden was built here.
And here are warehouses - buildings that were erected on the site of buildings washed away by the flood. The exchange needed strong warehouses that would not be subject to the blows of the elements. An excellent panorama opens up from Strelka.
From here you can see the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Palace Embankment. And the place itself is amazing: there is a lot of water and air, a feeling of unprecedented space and freedom is created.
Oceanarium
This complex is liked by the townspeople and guests of the Northern capital. And he started working in 2006. the organizers thought out the layout of the aquariums and pools perfectly, arranged competent lighting. As a result, the most secretive inhabitants of the deep sea are in plain sight.
People come here just to observe the inhabitants of the sea. But for those who love activity, the administration arranges show programs. Seals, dolphins and fish take part in the performances. An audio guide is also available for guests who prefer a quiet sightseeing. You can get it with your admission ticket.
There are platforms for children in front of the aquariums. These simple devices save parents from having to hold their babies in their arms. Banquets are arranged in secluded places.
Tired guests can take a break. But for the attraction Feeding the inhabitants of the place should be taken in advance. It is popular with visitors. While the inhabitants of the sea devour their food, the workers talk about their habits and preferences in an interesting way.
- Address: st. Marata, building 86
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 00-19: 15
- Prices: 550/750 rubles. (Children Adults)
Nikolaevsky palace
The building was built at the behest of Emperor Nicholas 1 for his eldest son, Grand Duke Nikolai Nikolaevich. The construction was long-term construction at that time: the work lasted 10 years. Despite the exquisite decoration, the family was not happy here.
After the death of Nikolai Nikolaevich, the palace was returned to the treasury for debts. Until the October coup, the Xenin Institute for Noble Maidens worked in the building. And in 1918, trade unions were housed in the palace. And it became known as the Palace of Labor.
Today the Nikolaevsky Palace has been reconstructed. The interiors have been restored in the tradition of the 19th century. Guests are always welcome here.
Visitors can:
- walk through the halls, accompanied by a guide, admire the magnificent decoration
- take part in a folk show
- view the exposition of the exhibition hall
If the need arises, you can hold negotiations in the palace, arrange a meeting. A Christmas tree is organized for younger guests. The guests will be imbued with the spirit of the bright holiday of the Nativity of Christ. There is also a ballet school in the Nicholas Palace. Girls and boys are prepared for admission to the ARB.
- Address: Labor Square, 4
- Working hours: Mon-Thu 10: 00-18: 00; Fri 10: 00-17: 00
Field of Mars
Many European capitals had the Champ de Mars. And Peter 1 did not want to lag behind. They managed to drain the swampy meadow, and the vacated territory was named the Field of Mars. Under Catherine 1, there was a park here.
The Empress arranged paths, laid out the lawns. The field has turned into a park. But this did not last long. Under Pavel Petrovich, reviews were held on the Field of Mars. The territory has become a kind of parade ground. Subsequent emperors were so carried away by military reviews that all the scarce vegetation was trampled down.
Local wits immediately renamed the field: in the summer it was called the Sahara, and during the rains - the Central Swamp. After the October coup, the burial place of the victims of terror was arranged here. And who to bury here was decided by a commission chaired by the Petrel of the Revolution - the writer Maxim Gorky.
During the blockade, the Field of Mars turned into a vegetable garden. Leningraders grew vegetables necessary for life on the beds. The final ensemble was formed for the 40th anniversary of the October Revolution. And from the Eternal Flame burning on the Champ de Mars, they lit the Eternal Flame on Red Square in Moscow.
Today the Field of Mars is a central meeting place for citizens and tourists. From here it is easy to reach anywhere in the historic center.
Alexander Park
Initially, this place was a wasteland. All vegetation was removed, the area was cleared. This was required by strategic considerations: the approaches to the Peter and Paul Fortress should be clearly visible.
But later the defensive significance of Petropavlovka ceased to be significant for the city.
On an empty dull place, on the orders of Alexander 1, a park was laid out. But the idea was realized only under Emperor Nicholas I.
At the beginning of the XXI century, the park was reconstructed, and now there are many interesting things for guests and local residents. In 2012, architect Taratynov, with the support of Gazprom, presented the city with an amazing model - St. Petersburg in miniature. The historic center has been reconstructed in a small area.
Nearby there is a monument to the famous architect. Architects conduct a dialogue at the table, and any guest can sit on an empty chair.
Planetarium. He has been working here since 1959.
Music hall. The oldest stage where performances have been held since the beginning of the 20th century.
The territory is divided into sections by shady alleys, decorated with sculptures. It is pleasant to relax on the comfortable benches. You can spend the whole day here.
Located between Kronverksky Avenue and Kronverkskaya Embankment.
Mariinsky Theatre
During its more than 200-year history, the Mariinsky has been rebuilt several times. At first, the theater was designed by Rinaldi, then Tomon worked on the building. After the fire, reconstruction was carried out again by Tomon. Subsequently, Kavos changed the hall. The acoustics have improved. Residents of Northern Palmyra enjoyed spending their evenings at the Bolshoi Kamenny Theater.
The theater got its name after the last fire that took place in 1859. At different times famous choreographers worked here, staged works of Russian and foreign composers. And in the 30s, on the stage of the Kirov Theater, viewers saw modern stories.
The last reconstruction took place in the 70s of the twentieth century. The Mariinsky has acquired a modern look. Today performances for children and adults are staged here. During the intermission, viewers can explore the stunning interiors of the foyer and hall.
- Address: Teatralnaya square, building 1
- Opening hours: daily, 11: 00-19: 00, break 14: 00-15: 00
Park of the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg
This is the youngest recreation area: it appeared for the 300th anniversary of the city. And in commemoration of this event, 300 young shrubs, apple trees, unique trees donated by foreign governments and institutions of the city were planted.
The territory turned out to be free due to the fact that it was regularly flooded.This is what was most difficult in the design. The whole area is an excellent observation deck. Visitors can see the panorama of the Gulf of Finland, the Lakhta skyscraper, the stadium, Vasilievsky Island.
Guests with children willingly come here: the organizers have provided everything to make the rest comfortable for them. Those who cannot imagine life without modern communications will also be glad: free Wi-Fi is provided on the territory.
Lovers of activities will be happy to spend time on sports grounds or bike paths. The inventory can be rented here. There is also an amazing monument here - the Tower-symbol of 3 centuries. It is a 22 meter high granite column.
3 tiers - a sign of three centuries. The top is crowned with a weather vane - St. Andrew's flag. Near the column, visitors of the park take pictures with pleasure.
- Address: Primorsky prospect, 74 D
- Opening hours: daily, 07: 00-23: 00
Faberge Museum
The exposition is located in the house of the Shuvalov-Naryshkins. The building was previously reconstructed and restored. Therefore, guests of the center admire not only priceless items, but also original interiors.
Vekselberg, a philanthropist from Russia, managed to outbid a collection of Faberge eggs from the American billionaire Forbes. That is why all the items have returned home. It is noteworthy that Vekselberg, when creating the center, did not set the goal of making money. He decided to just show the artifacts to people.
But this is not just an original exhibition. The center carries out scientific work, the results of which are presented to guests and the public. Of course, you can sign up for a guided tour. A keen guide will guide visitors on a set route.
You can, having climbed the main staircase, independently choose the direction of the inspection. And to get additional information really with the help of interactive screens and stands.
- Address: Fontanka river embankment, building 21
- Opening hours: daily, 10: 00-20: 45
- Price: 250 - 500 rubles.
House of the company "Singer"
The well-known company Singer has ordered a skyscraper project. But at the beginning of the twentieth century in Northern Palmyra, there was a ban on the construction of buildings higher than the Winter Palace. But Suzor easily solved the problem. The façade actually rises 6 floors. And at the top there is an attic and a glass dome.
The structure turned out to be too original. It simultaneously went to both the Nevsky and the Griboyedov Canal. The townspeople did not immediately get used to the unusual house. But subsequently, active trade developed here, and Petersburgers fell in love with the strange mansion. Now it is one of the symbols of the city.
After the October coup, the building was nationalized. And after a while a bookstore started working in it. Interestingly, in the days of the siege, printed materials were sold in a badly damaged house. The center has been restored today.
It still houses the House of Books, and the rest of the premises are rented out. And visitors are happy to inspect the unusual facade, climb the asymmetrical staircase, decorated with bronze details, to the atrium hall.
Address: Nevsky Prospect, 28.
Kronstadt
Since the beginning of the 18th century, Kronstadt has been a part of the capital and at the same time a strongly fortified region. Since the times of Peter the Great, the base of the Russian Navy has been located here. Until 2011, it was only accessible by water, but the construction of the dam made the area accessible at any time of the year.
You should definitely come here. The entire historical center is included in the UNESCO heritage list. And to see the city that was once closed to tourists is worth a lot. From the embankment, a panorama of the ships standing in the roadstead opens.
Kronstadt is strict and neat. The streets are clean, there is no bustle and crowding, typical for the Northern capital. And the houses in the center are low, but neat and cozy. All sights are located compactly: 1 day is enough for a quick inspection. But tourists usually fall in love with this modest military city and return here for longer excursions.
Big Gostiny Dvor
A city within a city - this is what the people of St. Petersburg call the Big Gostiny Dvor. And indeed it is! Lovers of shopping and fashionable novelties are sure to come here. Among the boutiques, you can get lost in time, looking at and trying on outfits.
History lovers will be happy to visit the Museum of the History of the Merchants, located in the central ring of the Court. The exposition was organized in 2014. Here are the personal belongings, photographs and documents of famous merchant families of the most important class of Russia. Nearby is the temple of Seraphim Vyritsky.
Before his tonsure, Vasily Muravyov was a prominent merchant, and he began to work as a messenger in the Bolshoi Gostiny Dvor. The yard is not just a shopping center. There is an active cultural life here: at the Elena Obraztsova International Academy of Music, children and adults receive specialized education.
- Address: Nevsky Prospect, 35
- Opening hours: daily, 11: 00-21: 00
