Despite wars, revolutions, floods and changes of power, St. Petersburg managed to preserve its cultural and historical heritage. Some of the buildings and monuments that witnessed the reign of Peter the Great have survived to the present day so that we and future generations can touch the history of the country.
Summer is a great time for a vacation in St. Petersburg. In warm weather, you will be able to walk more along the old streets, along the embankments of canals and rivers, and enjoy the architecture of the city.
Summer Palace
The summer residence of Peter the Great is noticeably different from the rest of the palaces and estates of the emperors. Peter's ascetic Baroque gives away the lifestyle of the first emperor: Peter was more immersed in military affairs, construction and industry, so he did not like excessive luxury.
The Summer Palace was built after the Northern War, and on the exterior facade architect Domenico Trezzini placed bas-reliefs with the key events of this battle.
The House of Peter I
The uniqueness of the house is that it was built in just three days from wood, and it was able to survive to this day. Ordinary soldiers participated in the construction, they used pine logs as the main material.
The place for the house was chosen not by chance. It was built on the territory of the Peter and Paul Fortress so that from the windows Peter could observe the Neva River and all strategic objects.
Cabinet of curiosities
The first museum, also built in the time of Peter, is considered the Kunstkammer. In addition to the collection of anatomical anomalies, here you can look at ancient household items of different peoples.
The construction of the Cabinet of Curiosities began in 1716, but, unfortunately, Peter did not live to see the opening of the museum. Nevertheless, the building, built only by 1733, is made in the style of Peter the Great Baroque.
Menshikov Palace
The palace of Alexander Menshikov, the first governor of St. Petersburg, was built of stone, unlike other buildings of that decade. During the construction, the architects used the style of Peter the Great Baroque. Apparently, Peter I did not accept any other styles, including classical Baroque.
The palace was built in 1714, but already in 1727 Menshikov fell for corruption and went into exile. His residence was transferred to the treasury, and today is a branch of the Hermitage.
Most of the buildings of the first half of the 18th century are located off the banks of the Bolshaya Neva. By booking a room at the Teatralnaya Ploshchad Hotel, you will have the opportunity to spend more time in the historical center of St. Petersburg and admire the architecture of different eras. The Theatre Square Hotel offers its guests cozy rooms and a high level of service.
