Nevsky Prospect

Nevsky Prospect is a central avenue in Saint Petersburg that runs about 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) from the Admiralty building to the Alexander Nevsky Monastery. The street follows a straight line through the historic core of the city, crossing several canals and rivers along the way.

Construction of this main road began in 1711 to link the Admiralty shipyard with trade routes toward Moscow and Novgorod. During the 19th century, it became the social center of the imperial city and acquired its present architectural character.

People walk along this avenue for shopping and socializing, especially near Gostiny Dvor and the bookshops that have served readers for generations. Theatergoers gather around the Alexandrinsky Theatre, where performances continue to draw crowds throughout the week.

Three metro stations along the route offer quick access to different sections of the avenue. Visitors can walk the entire length in about an hour, though many prefer shorter strolls between individual bridges.

Four bronze horse sculptures stand on Anichkov Bridge, each showing a different stage of a man taming a horse. These figures were removed during wars several times and later returned to their place.