Palace Embankment

The Palace Embankment is a 1,300 meter (4,265 feet) riverside complex along the Neva in central Saint Petersburg, stretching from the Palace Bridge toward the Fontanka River. The waterfront zone contains the Hermitage Museum buildings, the Winter Palace, and numerous historical city palaces that together form a connected historic district.

Stone structures were built starting in 1761 when Catherine the Great hired architect Yuri Felten to replace the original wooden embankment with a permanent stone construction. This transformation made the location the preferred residence area for the imperial court and defined its appearance for centuries to come.

The embankment displays palaces and aristocratic mansions that reflect artistic tastes across different periods of Russian history. Walking along it, visitors can observe how architectural styles changed and developed, revealing what Russian nobility valued in their homes.

The walkway is easily reached from Admiralteyskaya metro station and served by bus and trolleybus lines connecting to neighboring areas. The paved path offers plenty of room for walking, and visitors should wear sturdy shoes since the surface can be uneven in places.

From the granite balustrades, visitors can see the Peter and Paul Fortress across the water, along with the full width of the Neva and Vasilievsky Island. This view held meaning for those who once lived here and remains a highlight for anyone strolling along the shore today.