Peter and Paul Fortress, St. Petersburg

4.5

Must see · History Museum · Architectural Building

Create an itinerary including Peter and Paul Fortress

The first structure ever built in Saint Petersburg, Peter and Paul Fortress serves as the final resting place of all Russian monarchs from Peter the Great to Alexander III. Constructed in 1703, the fortress takes up the better part of a small island in the river Neva. Designed to repel possible attacks by the Swedish navy, the massive structure never served its intended purpose, eventually becoming a notorious political prison. The most notable feature of this complex is its cathedral, boasting a gilded cupola and a bell tower that dominates the skyline from a height of over 120 m (400 ft). The fortress also houses a museum dedicated to the history of the city. Plan to see Peter and Paul Fortress and other attractions that appeal to you using our St. Petersburg trip itinerary maker website.

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Peter and Paul Fortress reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating

5,132 reviews

Google

4.8

By VickySilve97

The main purpose for the visit to this Fortress is the fact that in the Cathedral the bodies of all the Romanovs are laid to rest. In particular, I paid hommage to the family of Nicholas II, the last.... more

The main purpose for the visit to this Fortress is the fact that in the Cathedral the bodies of all the Romanovs are laid to rest. In particular, I paid hommage to the family of Nicholas II, the last.... more »
By Alexander_Kudrin

The iconic place, the spire of the Peter and Paul Cathedral and the silhouette of the fortress are one of the most recognizable symbols of St. Petersburg. The territory of the fortress is small...

The iconic place, the spire of the Peter and Paul Cathedral and the silhouette of the fortress are one of the most recognizable symbols of St. Petersburg. The territory of the fortress is small... more »
By tahiry719

Beautiful place and Island. Many things to see. Including Church with tall Tower, Museums, Beach and Food Outlets. A good place for all

Beautiful place and Island. Many things to see. Including Church with tall Tower, Museums, Beach and Food Outlets. A good place for all more »

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By tejas kotwal

Must visit. A nice place to get a panoramic view of the the coastline of st Petersburg. Don’t miss the panorama view. You can also walk along the fort from the outside. Once done with the tour you can then take a boat ride for 1 hour along the canals of st Petersburg which starts from the fort

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By Dejan Braki

Peter and Paul fortress is set on a tiny Hare island on the Neva river. It is the birthplace of the Imperial capital, as the city founder Peter the Great built a star shaped fortress here in 1703 from where the city started to grow. The primary purpose of the fortress was protection against the Suedes, but actually never served for that. Instead, it was a political prison. Today, it's main attraction is the same name Cathedral where the Royal Romanov family is buried including Peter the Great himself, as well the famous Catherine the Great. Apart from that, there are several museums across the island which you can visit according to your liking.

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By Ahmet İhsan Kaya

One of the best places to have a glance of night view of St. Petersburg. The shore near to the Fortress looks directly to the main attractions such as Hermitage, St. Isaac, Yusupov Palace and many more. Must visit.

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By Vasilis Kos.

One of the must places to visit when in Petersburg! The main attraction of the fortress, is the church of Saint Peter and Paul, in the center of it. There are also quite a few exhibitions, and small museums inside it. Try walking around the small island, and the small beach it has, during a sunny day!

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By Natalya Ivanova

One of my favorite places in Saint-Petersburg. First of all it's the all time historical place. The birth place of the city. So deeply connected with the history of Russia in general. The cathedral is a burial place of all the emperors from Romanovs dynasty. Wonderful view over the city line across the Neva river. You can take a helicopter ride over the city, starting at the wall of the fortress.

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