Peter and Paul Fortress

The Peter and Paul Fortress is a military fortification on Hare Island in central Saint Petersburg, formed by six bastions connected by thick stone walls. A cathedral with a gilded spire rises from the center of the complex, visible across much of the city.

Peter the Great founded the fortress in 1703 to protect the mouth of the Neva River and secure what would become the imperial capital. Over the centuries, it transformed from a military defense into a prison for political prisoners.

The cathedral inside the walls has served as the final resting place for Russian rulers and their families for more than three centuries. Visitors today walk among the graves and witness the golden spire that dominates the island skyline.

Access is via the Ioannovsky Bridge from the mainland, and visitors should wear sturdy shoes as the paths between bastions can be uneven. The site covers a large area, so plan enough time to walk through the main sections.

A cannon fires at noon each day from the Naryshkin Bastion, a tradition begun in 1873 to help ships set their clocks. Locals and visitors still gather to witness the moment of the blast.

Location: Petrogradsky District

Inception: May 16, 1703

Founders: Peter the Great

Architects: Domenico Trezzini

Part of: historic centre of Saint Petersburg

Website: http://spbmuseum.ru

GPS coordinates: 59.95003,30.31742

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:16