Peter and Paul’s Fortress

Located on the banks of the beautiful Neva River, the towering Peter and Paul Fortress dominate the skyline of St Petersburg. Built-in the 18th century, the fortress is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the city’s rich history. Established in 1703 by Peter the Great, the Peter and Paul Fortress has held some high-profile criminals in its prison cells, including ‘Crime and Punishment’ author Fyodor Dostoevsky and Lenin’s right-hand man, Leon Trotsky. The fortress is also home to the famous Cathedral of St Peter and Paul, the city’s oldest, dating back to 1712. The cathedral’s majestic bell tower and its flying angel figurine exemplify the city’s architectural splendor.   St. Peter and St. Paul’s Cathedral served as a burial-vault for the members of the Romanov dynasty.