Peter and Paul Fortress

The cornerstone of this monument was laid in 1703, and from that day the city dates its existence. The first fortress was an earthen structure. The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul took 21 years to build and had a hipped
roof and a cupola of modest dimensions over the altar. The interior of the cathedral resembles a palace hall. The iconostasis is an incomparable example of Russian wood-carving. After the Revolution it was transformed into a museum. Considered to be the birthplace of St. Petersburg, was founded in May 1703 by Peter the Great on a small island in the delta of the Neva River.
Originally constructed with the intention of being a military defence structure, it was later converted into a political prison.
The most valuable architectural monument on the grounds of the Fortress is the Peter and Paul Cathedral. Its gilded spire stretching more than 197 feet
into the sky serves as a distinctive and majestic city landmark. Over the course of two centuries, the Cathedral was the burial ground for many members of the Romanov family including Peter the Great and Alexander III.

Metro: Gorkovskaya
Telephone: 238-05-05
Open: Thursday to Thuesday, 10 am to 17 pm
Closed Wednesdays