Road of Life, Ice supply route near Saint Petersburg, Russia
The Road of Life was an ice route across Lake Ladoga near Saint Petersburg, Russia, that served as a supply line during wartime. It connected the city to the mainland over a frozen body of water that became solid enough in winter to carry heavy vehicles.
The route emerged in winter 1941, when the city was encircled and no other connections remained functional. It stayed in operation through several winters and enabled the evacuation of civilians as well as the delivery of food and medicine.
The name recalls the only connection that gave people hope when all other routes were closed. Today, memorial stones and markers line the former route across the frozen lake, and visitors follow the traces of drivers who traveled at night under fire.
The former route lies outside the city and is accessible through memorial sites along the shores. Visitors should bring warm clothing, as the area is open and often windy, especially in winter.
Drivers attached pots to their trucks so the rattling would keep them awake during dangerous crossings over the ice. Many trips took place at night to avoid enemy aircraft, which increased the risk further.
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