Saint Petersburg (1 of 8)
Locals call it, simply, 'Piter'. In its time - some 300 action-packed years - it has been known by several other names, all more resonant of its pivotal place in Russian history. But whatever it's called there's no denying that St Petersburg is one of the most glorious cities in Russia, if not the world. This grand dream of Peter the Great is like one gigantic museum: look up from the banks of the Neva River and the canals that meander through the heart of city and you'll gaze upon a showcase of 18th- and 19th-century palaces and mansions. Inside these you'll discover a mind-boggling collection of museums, culminating in the truly breathtaking Hermitage.
It's small wonder that such an environment has nurtured some of Russia's greatest artists and cultural movements. St Petersburg is the birthplace of Russian ballet, home to literary giants, including Pushkin and Dostoevsky, and musical maestros such as Shostakovich and Rachmaninoff. Creativity continues to throb through the city's veins manifesting itself in a hedonistic and experimental club and performing arts scenes, as well as, lately, a delicious crop of restaurants.
Nobody can deny that St Petersburg looks spectacular. Hundreds of theatres, palaces and historic buildings have been overhauled. Luxury hotels, shopping malls and entertainment complexes are bringing the city into the 21st century. St Petersburg is also legendary for its White Nights: those long summer days when the sun barely dips below the horizon.
Comments
uvurp | July 12th
It's really a great collection. I have appreciated all of your Russian pics.
