10 Things to Do in Peter and Paul Fortress, Saint Petersburg, Russia
Located in the heart of St. Petersburg, the Peter and Paul Fortress is a must-see for any visitor to the city. The fortress is the original citadel of St. Petersburg and serves as the final resting place of the Romanov Tsars. It is also home to many other historical and cultural attractions, making it one of the most popular tourist sites in the city. Here are 10 of the best things to do at the Peter and Paul Fortress.
1. Visit the Peter and Paul Cathedral: The Peter and Paul Cathedral is the main attraction of the fortress and the oldest building in all of St. Petersburg. Built in 1712, the cathedral is the burial site of all the Romanov Tsars from Peter the Great to Nicholas II. The ornate interior of the cathedral is a must-see for any visitor to St. Petersburg.
2. Explore the Trubetskoy Bastion Prison: The Trubetskoy Bastion Prison is located within the Peter and Paul Fortress and is one of the most famous prisons in Russia. It was used to house political prisoners during the Soviet era and is now open to the public. Visitors can explore the prison’s cells and learn about its grim history.
3. Visit St. John’s Bastion: St. John’s Bastion is one of the oldest parts of the fortress and was built in the early 18th century. Today, it is home to a museum dedicated to the history of the fortress and its role in the defense of St. Petersburg. Visitors can explore the bastion’s walls and learn about the city’s fascinating military history.
4. See the Mint: The Mint is located within the fortress walls and is the oldest working mint in Russia. It has been in operation since 1724 and is still used to produce coins and medals. Visitors can take a tour of the mint and learn about the process of minting coins.
5. Explore the Museum of St. Petersburg History: The Museum of St. Petersburg History is located within the Peter and Paul Fortress and is dedicated to the history of the city. The museum covers topics such as the city’s foundation, its growth and development, and its role in Russian culture.
6. Visit the Naval Museum: The Naval Museum is located within the fortress walls and is dedicated to the history of the Russian Navy. It features exhibits on the history of the navy, its ships, and its battles. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and learn about the country’s naval history.
7. See the Artillery Museum: The Artillery Museum is located within the fortress walls and is dedicated to the history of the Russian artillery. It features exhibits on the development of artillery, its use in warfare, and its role in the defense of St. Petersburg.
8. Tour the Commandant’s House: The Commandant’s House is located within the fortress walls and is a unique example of 18th-century Russian architecture. It was the residence of the fortress’s commandant and is now open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history.
9. Take a Boat Tour: The Peter and Paul Fortress is located on an island in the Neva River and can be explored from the water. Visitors can take a boat tour of the fortress and enjoy the views of the city from the river.
10. Enjoy the Views: The Peter and Paul Fortress offers some of the best views of St. Petersburg. Visitors can take in the sights of the city from the fortress’s walls and enjoy the stunning vistas of the Neva River.
The Peter and Paul Fortress is one of the most iconic landmarks in St. Petersburg and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. From its historical attractions to its stunning views, the fortress is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.