Saint Petersburg is a unique city. During its history, it has gone through several renaming, and each name reflected the political, ideological and cultural changes that took place in the country.
Where the name of the city came from and why it was constantly renamed – we tell in the article.
Founding of the city
The city was founded in 1703 by Peter I and was not immediately named St. Petersburg. In the first documents, the names of Petropavlovsk and Petropolis appeared. It was only in 1720 that Peter finally chose the option of St. Petersburg in honor of St. Peter the Apostle.
Peter I wanted to create a new capital that would be a symbol of modern Russia and different from Moscow, the traditional capital of the country. The name St. Petersburg was a symbol of modernization and reforms.
Rejection of German roots
The first change occurred during the First World War. In 1914, the city was renamed from St. Petersburg to Petrograd. This decision was made for a number of reasons. Russian Russian identity First of all, the name "Petrograd" better corresponded to Russian national interests and was a symbol of Russian identity. In addition, it reminded of the main founder of the city – Peter the Great, and emphasized his importance in the history of Russia.
Finally, the authorities had to come to such a decision against the background of anti-German sentiments in society.
Renaming to Leningrad
In 1924, after the death of Vladimir Lenin, the city was renamed Leningrad in honor of the leader of the revolution. The new name reflected the political changes that took place after the revolutions and the establishment of Bolshevik power.
This renaming was part of the Soviet government's overall desire to create a new ideological and political landscape centered around the culture and history of the revolution.
The renaming of the city to Leningrad was part of a large process of renaming and repurposing geographical objects throughout the country. The image of Lenin was a highly valued ideological symbol in Soviet society, and the renaming of the city was an attempt to give it even greater significance.
Return to the historical name
In 1991, after the collapse of the Soviet Union and changes in the political system of Russia, the city regained its historical name – St. Petersburg. This renaming was a symbol of the rejection of communist ideology and a return to the historical roots and cultural heritage of the city and the country.
Despite all the changes, St. Petersburg remains one of the most important and beautiful cities in Russia, with a rich cultural heritage.
A vacation in St. Petersburg is an opportunity to touch its fascinating history. Book a hotel room in the historical center of the city to walk more along the ancient streets and admire the pre-revolutionary buildings. Theatre Square Hotel offers its guests category 1 rooms and junior suites, delicious breakfasts and first-class service.
