: Tours and Excursion

The Petropavlovskaya Krepost, commonly known as the Peter and Paul Fortress or simply the Fortress of Peter and Paul, stands as the original citadel of Saint Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great in 1703. This historic fortification occupies a strategic position on Zayachy Island, overlooking the Neva River, and marks the very spot where the modern city began its development. The site is famous for its iconic Peter and Paul Cathedral, whose golden needle-like spire remains a dominant feature of the city's skyline. For history enthusiasts, wandering through the bastions with a private guide provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the defensive architecture and the grim history of the Trubetskoy Bastion prison, which once held famous political figures. The fortress complex serves as a living museum of Russian imperial history, housing the tombs of almost all the Romanov emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II.

The interior of the Peter and Paul Cathedral is a radical departure from traditional Russian Orthodox church design, featuring a more Western European baroque style with bright colors and a magnificent carved iconostasis. The cathedral's role as a dynastic burial vault adds a layer of solemnity to its artistic beauty. Outside the cathedral, visitors can explore the various museum exhibitions that detail the life of the city during the imperial era and the evolution of the fortress itself. A long-standing tradition at the fortress is the firing of the midday cannon from the Naryshkin Bastion, a ritual that has been observed for centuries and continues to startle unsuspecting visitors daily. Engaging a private guide allows you to navigate the extensive grounds efficiently while uncovering the secret legends associated with the construction of the fortress walls.

Defenses and Imperial Splendor

The fortress walls and gates are impressive examples of 18th-century engineering. The Peter Gate, designed by Domenico Trezzini, is particularly notable for its bas-reliefs and triumphal arch style, celebrating the military victories of the Russian Empire. Despite being a military installation, the fortress was never used for its original defensive purpose; instead, it served as a high-security prison and a military base. Today, the sandy beach along the Neva walls is a popular spot for locals to soak up the sun, even in the cooler months, providing a unique juxtaposition between the historic stone walls and modern leisure activities.

Nearby Landmarks to Explore

• Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum - The world-renowned art museum located across the Neva.
• Strelka of Vasilyevsky Island - A historic ensemble featuring rostral columns and the Stock Exchange building.
• Cruiser Aurora - The historic ship that signaled the start of the Bolshevik Revolution.
• Marble Palace - A neoclassical masterpiece currently housing branches of the Russian Museum.
• Summer Garden - The oldest park in the city, famous for its sculptures and fountains.

Discover the Birthplace of the City

A journey through the Peter and Paul Fortress is essential for anyone wishing to understand the foundations of Saint Petersburg. Our professional private guides are experts in the complex history of the Romanov dynasty and the architectural evolution of the fortress. By booking a tour, you gain access to expert storytelling and a tailored itinerary that highlights the most significant aspects of this historic citadel.