Peter and Paul Fortress | Saint Petersburg

Peter and Paul Fortress (Saint Petersburg)

The Peter and Paul Fortress is one of the most iconic landmarks in Saint Petersburg, Russia, and serves as a symbol of the city's origins and imperial history. Established in the early 18th century, it was the first structure built in the city and played a key role in its development and defense. Today, it is a major historical and cultural monument.

1. Location:

Address: Petropavlovskaya Fortress, Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Coordinates: 59.9553° N, 30.3083° E.

Located on Zayachy Island in the Neva River, the fortress is a short distance from Palace Square and other major sites in Saint Petersburg. Its strategic location on the river helped protect the city during its early years and continues to make it an important site for tourists and historians alike.

2. History:

Foundation (1703): The fortress was founded by Tsar Peter the Great on May 16, 1703, marking the birth of Saint Petersburg as the new Russian capital. The construction of the fortress was a response to the threat of Swedish forces during the Great Northern War, and it was designed as a defensive military stronghold.

Symbol of the Russian Empire: The fortress was intended to be a symbol of Russia’s military strength and power, with its massive walls and formidable presence. Over time, it became the center of administration and defense for the growing city of Saint Petersburg.

Imprisonment of Political Prisoners: For many years, the fortress was used as a prison, holding political prisoners, dissidents, and individuals who opposed the monarchy. Famous figures, including Dostoevsky and Leon Trotsky, were imprisoned here at different points in Russian history.

Decline as a Fortress: The fortress ceased to serve as a military stronghold by the late 19th century and was eventually converted into a museum. Today, it stands as one of the key historical landmarks in Saint Petersburg.

3. Architecture and Layout:

The Peter and Paul Fortress is an architectural marvel, featuring a blend of military and imperial design. The fortress consists of several buildings, walls, and structures, all contributing to its historical significance.

Fortress Walls: The fortress is surrounded by strong, thick stone walls that were designed for defense. The walls are nearly 12 meters high and are punctuated by watchtowers, making the structure formidable.

Peter and Paul Cathedral: The central and most famous building in the fortress is the Peter and Paul Cathedral, a stunning example of Russian Baroque architecture. Built between 1712 and 1733, the cathedral has a distinctive golden spire that reaches 122.5 meters (about 400 feet) in height, making it the tallest building in Saint Petersburg. The cathedral is the burial place of many of the Russian emperors and empresses, including Peter the Great, Catherine the Great, and Nicholas II.

Grand Gate: The Grand Gate serves as the main entrance to the fortress. It is flanked by two high towers and is one of the most recognizable features of the site.

Other Buildings: The fortress houses several other buildings, including the Commandant’s House, the Trinity and Naryshkin Bastions, and the Mint. Each of these buildings played a different role in the fortress’s history, from administrative functions to minting coins.

Canals and Moats: The fortress is surrounded by a moat and has several canals around its perimeter. These were historically used to protect the fortress from invaders and provide an additional layer of defense.

4. Notable Features and Attractions:

Peter and Paul Cathedral: As mentioned, the cathedral is the most prominent building within the fortress. It features baroque altars, a beautiful iconostasis, and a famous chime of bells that still rings out from the cathedral tower. The cathedral’s spire is a well-known symbol of Saint Petersburg.

Burial Site of Russian Monarchs: The Peter and Paul Cathedral also serves as the final resting place for many of Russia’s most famous rulers, including Peter the Great, Catherine the Great, Alexander I, Nicholas II, and other members of the Romanov dynasty. The graves are located inside the cathedral, and visitors can pay respects to these historical figures.

The Fortress Museum: The Peter and Paul Fortress Museum is one of the oldest museums in Russia. It covers the history of the fortress, the city of Saint Petersburg, and the Russian Empire. Exhibitions showcase the fortress’s military role, its use as a prison, and its significance to the development of the Russian state.

Trinity Bastion: The Trinity Bastion was once used for military defense and now houses a small museum. It is named after the Trinity Cathedral, which was located nearby and was later destroyed. The bastion offers a great view of the fortress and the Neva River.

Commandant's House: The Commandant's House is where the fortress’s commander resided and is now used as part of the museum complex. Visitors can see exhibits that highlight the fortress’s military history.

5. Fun Facts:

Peter the Great’s Vision: Tsar Peter the Great chose the location of the fortress himself, and it was initially constructed to protect the city from the Swedes. Interestingly, the fortress was built on Zayachy Island, a strategic position on the Neva River, which was essential for controlling access to Saint Petersburg.

Iconic Spire: The golden spire of the Peter and Paul Cathedral has become a defining symbol of Saint Petersburg. It’s often used in the city’s postcards, and its spire can be seen from many parts of the city.

Political Prison: The fortress was used as a prison for political prisoners for much of its history. It held many famous individuals, including Dostoevsky, who was imprisoned there for his involvement in anti-government activities.

Romanov Tombs: The tombs of the Romanov family, including the tragic final Tsar Nicholas II and his family, are housed in the Peter and Paul Cathedral. The family’s remains were transferred to the cathedral after they were exhumed and reburied in 1998.

6. Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: The fortress is typically open every day except Wednesdays and major holidays. The museum inside the fortress, including the Peter and Paul Cathedral, is also open to visitors. The hours of operation usually run from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Ticket Prices: The entrance fee to the fortress varies depending on the area you wish to visit. There are discounted tickets for students, pensioners, and children. Admission to the Peter and Paul Cathedral is often included in the ticket to the fortress.

How to Get There: The fortress is easily accessible from the city center. Visitors can take the metro to Gorkovskaya station or Sportivnaya station and then walk to the fortress. There are also several boat tours that pass by the fortress, offering a unique view from the Neva River.

7. Conclusion:

The Peter and Paul Fortress is a must-visit historical site in Saint Petersburg, offering a fascinating glimpse into Russia's imperial past. With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and the burial site of the Romanov dynasty, it is one of the most significant and cherished landmarks in the city. Whether you're interested in military history, Russian royalty, or just enjoying beautiful views of the city, the fortress is a must-see destination in Saint Petersburg.