The Cathedral of Peter and Paul

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul stands as a historic and architectural marvel in the heart of Saint Petersburg, Russia. Built between 1712 and 1733, this grand cathedral serves as a testament to the city's rich religious and cultural heritage. It is the oldest landmark in Saint Petersburg, reflecting the baroque style of architecture that was prevalent during the time of Peter the Great.

The cathedral's striking features include a 123-meter-tall bell tower, which is the highest Orthodox bell tower in the world. Atop this tower sits a gilded angel holding a cross, a symbol that has become an iconic part of the Saint Petersburg skyline. The exterior of the cathedral is adorned with ornate decorations and sculptures, while the interior is replete with lavish iconostasis, paintings, and intricate carvings.

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul is not only a place of worship but also the final resting place of almost all Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II and his family, who were reburied here in 1998. This makes it a site of great historical significance and a pilgrimage destination for those interested in the Romanov dynasty.

As a central piece of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the cathedral also plays a role in the military history of Russia. The fortress itself is the original citadel of Saint Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great in 1703, and the cathedral's spire served as a useful point of orientation for ships navigating the Neva River.