City of St Petersburg

When in Russia, a number of cities stand out as exceptional places to visit. One of these is the city of St. Petersburg. Although this particular city was just founded in 1703, it still has a rich and interesting history.

From the early days of Peter the Great to the current day’s events, this city is one of mystery and mystic. Although some people will rush through to see this city, we highly recommend you take adequate time to uncover some of the special secrets, and most importantly, the White Lights over the Venice of the North, something absolutely, spectacular to see.

Since the 9th century, the land running along the Neva River was a part of ancient Russia. Over time, this land was a unique blend of various populations to include the Finns, Slavs, and others. Novgorod was the center of both domestic and international trade where goods were traded with Northern and Western Europe. However, for the trade to reach its intended destination, it had to pass through Neva River and then through Lake Ladoga. Then in 1240, a time with Central and Southern Russia was busy fighting the Mongol invasion, the Swedes invaded the Neva River banks.

Troops from Novgorod under the leadership of Prince Alexander went to meet the enemy in the summer of 1240, fighting in what is called the Battle of Neva. With a surprise attack, the troops were successful. While Russia has been involved in a number of battles, this particular one became the country’s symbol for independence. With such a victory, the prince’s name was changed to Alexander Nevsky. To protect the country and its Christian faith, the Prince declared a Saint of the Russian Orthodox Church.

At the end of the 17th century, Peter the Great was determined to take back control of the Baltic Sea, thus making connections with the West. With this, he started the Northern War with Sweden in 1700 and in 1703 Russians finally took control of the Neva River and in just a few months, St. Petersburg was founded. During this war, the Russian forces slowly made their way from Lake Ladoga down the Neva River, finally to Nienchanz, the Swedish fort. After fighting with the Swedes for eight days, they finally surrendered.

St. Petersburg fortress was then founded in May of 1703. Just a few days later, a wooden cabin for Peter the Great was build, which actually became the first house of the new city. The fort was constructed of bastions and clay, which was not completed until late summer of this same year. Soon after, the great floods of St. Petersburg hit but despite significant loss, Peter the Great ordered the construction of the city to continue. For many years, the town was merely a fortress surrounded by some smaller towns but when completed in 1712, the size of the city was so large it became Russia’s capital city.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM