Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Saint Petersburg, Russia
1. Peter and Paul Fortress
A historical fortress on Hare Island founded by Peter the Great in 1703, offering stunning views of Saint Petersburg.
- Historical Significance: The very first structure built in Saint Petersburg
- Unique Architecture: A mix of Baroque, Classical and Russian architecture styles
- Panoramic Views: Offers a breathtaking vista of the city skyline
2. Church on Spilled Blood
A remarkable church famous for its intricate onion domes and ornate interiors, built on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated.
- Rich History: Commemorates the life of Tsar Alexander III
- Stunning Mosaics: Features 7,000 square meters of mosaic work, making it one of the world's largest collections
- Iconic Architecture: A blend of Russian and Byzantine architectural styles
3. The Hermitage Cat Mosque
A tiny mosque built for the cats who lived in the Hermitage Museum's catacombs.
- Animal Welfare: Provides a space for the museum's feline population
- Historical Quirk: One of the few Muslim structures in Russia, built in the late 19th century
- Hidden Gem: Located within one of Saint Petersburg's most famous attractions
4. The Cabin of Peter the Great
A wooden house on the banks of the Neva River where Peter the Great lived during the early years of Saint Petersburg.
- Historical Importance: Serves as a testament to Peter the Great's determination and vision
- Architectural Rarity: One of the few remaining wooden buildings from the early days of Saint Petersburg
- Peaceful Setting: Offers a serene escape amidst the bustling city life
5. The Rostral Columns
Two ornate columns located at each end of the Palace Embankment, originally part of Peter and Paul Fortress.
- Historical Symbolism: Represent naval triumphs during Peter the Great's reign
- Stunning Design: Adorned with gilded sculptures of sea dragons and other maritime symbols
- City Landmark: Iconic structures that mark the start of the Palace Embankment
6. The Buried Cathedral
A crypt beneath Trinity Cathedral where many Russian emperors are buried.
- Royal Mausoleum: Holds the remains of Russian tsars and empresses
- Architectural Intrigue: Features an elegant Baroque facade with a Gothic interior
- Historical Connection: Linked to key events in Russian history, including the Romanov dynasty
7. The Savior on Blood Church
An orthodox church built by Alexander III in memory of his father, Alexander II, assassinated nearby.
- Historical Significance: Built on the spot where Tsar Alexander II was mortally wounded
- Artistic Masterpiece: Features over 7,500 square meters of mosaics and 10,000 precious stones
- Iconic Architecture: An example of Neo-Russian architecture with Byzantine influences
8. The Monument to the Defender of the Fatherland
A monument dedicated to the soldiers who fought in World War II, located on Peter and Paul Fortress.
- Historical Importance: Honors the sacrifices made during World War II
- Striking Design: Includes a large statue of a soldier and an eternal flame
- City Landmark: A prominent attraction on Peter and Paul Fortress
9. The Kunstkamera Museum
One of the oldest museums in Russia, founded by Peter the Great to collect and study natural curiosities.
- Scientific Pioneer: Founded by Peter the Great as part of his Westernization efforts
- Unique Collection: Contains a vast collection of minerals, fossils, and ethnographic artifacts
- Historical Significance: Houses the world's first collection of meteorites
10. The Peterhof Fountains
A series of intricate fountains located in Peterhof Palace, known as the Russian Versailles.
- Historical Splendor: Built by Peter the Great and inspired by the Palace of Versailles
- Engineering Marvel: Features fountains that operate without pumps or machinery
- Aesthetic Delight: Offers a dazzling display of water, sculptures, and vibrant colors
11. The Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines
A unique museum dedicated to the history of Soviet arcade games and pinball machines.
- Historical Preservation: Helps preserve a piece of Soviet entertainment history
- Interactive Experience: Allows visitors to play the restored arcade games
- Soviet Nostalgia: Provides a glimpse into Soviet popular culture
12. The House with Chimeras
A fairy-tale like building adorned with fantastical sculptures known as chimeras.
- Artistic Expression: Created by the artist Vladimir Shukhov
- Historical Significance: Serves as an example of early 20th-century Russian architecture
- Fantastical Design: Features sculptures of mythical creatures such as griffins, gargoyles, and dragons
13. The Leningrad Zoo
An old but well-maintained zoo located in Saint Petersburg, home to a variety of exotic and local animals.
- Wildlife Conservation: Helps educate visitors about endangered species
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest zoos in Europe, founded in 1865
- Interactive Experience: Offers interactive experiences such as penguin encounters and elephant feeding sessions
14. The House of Scientists
A unique museum dedicated to the lives and works of notable scientists and inventors.
- Scientific Enlightenment: Helps educate visitors about the history of science
- Historical Significance: Features exhibits on famous scientists such as Mendeleev, Lomonosov, and Pavlov
- Interactive Experience: Offers hands-on experiments and interactive displays
15. The Saint Petersburg Planetarium
A stunning planetarium offering shows about the cosmos, stars, and constellations.
- Cosmic Education: Helps educate visitors about the universe and space exploration
- Stunning Visual Experience: Features a spherical dome and a state-of-the-art projection system
- Scientific Awe: Provides an immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the cosmos from Earth