The lines from the famous poem by Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin, "I have erected a monument to myself …" became a kind of anthem of Palace Square, which is impossible to imagine without the famous fifty-meter Alexandrian column. This place is the heart of St. Petersburg, captivating with its beauty and originality of all, without exception. There are always a lot of people and the atmosphere of celebration and fun reigns constantly. It is not surprising that tourists begin their acquaintance with the sights of the Northern capital from the main square of the city. Why is she so famous?
Interesting Facts
- The most beautiful city in the world - Petersburg was founded in 1703 by order of the Russian emperor Peter the Great. Over the years of its historical development, unique architectural monuments have been created here, striking with their appearance and majesty. Among them are St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Catherine’s Palace and, of course, Palace Square and its main decorations: the Hermitage and the General Staff Building.
- There are many stories connected with the central square of the city. For example, few people know that until the beginning of the 18th century the square was a green meadow and there was no granite and stone here, it was then called Admiralteyskaya. Now it is difficult to even imagine, but it is.
- Another interesting fact is associated with the unusual secret of the Alexander Column. It is believed that this monument weighing about eight hundred tons was not attached to the pedestal during the construction and it is held only due to its own weight. At first, the townspeople were even afraid to walk near the column, but over time they forgot about this fact.
The main attractions
This place is familiar to a huge number of people. Palace Square (photos are presented in this article) is one of the most famous and popular attractions of the city. Over the entire eighteenth century, such famous masters as Auguste Monferand, Karl Rossi and others worked on the creation of its architectural ensemble. The Palace Square in shape is a giant circle, on the one hand which closes the Winter Palace, and on the other - the Arc de Triomphe and the General Staff Building. Exactly in the middle is its main symbol - the Pillar of Alexandria, built in honor of the victory of Russia in the Patriotic War of 1812. At the top of the column is a soaring angel trampling a serpent with a cross. Another unique decoration of the square is the Arc de Triomphe, dedicated to the military glory of Russia and Russian defenders. It is made in the Baroque style, with many columns, bas-reliefs and porticoes. But its highlight is in the chariot of Victory, which crowns the arch. It is unique, you will not meet another such anywhere else. In order to see everything with your own eyes, if you are in St. Petersburg, visit this unique place!
Palace Square in St. Petersburg: events
The main place of the city is famous not only for its cultural monuments, but also for a huge number of various events. Starting from large-scale festive festivities dedicated to events such as City Day, New Year, Navy Day, and ending with concerts by Russian and world stars, whose performances can be watched for free.
Holiday shows and salutes
Each event on the Palace Square is carefully prepared, a program with fun contests and prize drawings and souvenirs is drawn up, the most fiery presenters from the famous showmen who charge residents and visitors of the city with positive and positive emotions are selected. In addition, the best groups of the city are invited with amazing rooms. In the final part of the holiday, an enchanting firework usually begins, which will not leave anyone indifferent! This is a real colorful show that at least once in a lifetime everyone should watch. Salute lasts about half an hour, and during this time the sky lights up with all the colors of the rainbow.
Among the interesting one-time events held on Palace Square, I would like to highlight the most memorable citizens' reviews: the All-Russian festival “Vivat Cinema of Russia!”, At which everyone could see the parade of retro cars and enjoy musical compositions from their favorite films, and grandiose flash mobs dedicated to the Day St. Valentine, where everyone could get a small souvenir in the shape of a heart.
Laser show
One of the most impressive events held on Palace Square. It remains for a long time in the memory of everyone who was fortunate enough to watch it live. This spectacle is held during the New Year holidays from the second to the tenth of January, every day, from 18.00. A truly grandiose event is a laser light installations, which with the help of special equipment are projected on the walls of the General Staff Building. Each picture tells how the New Year is celebrated in different countries, and shows the main traditions of the holiday. Pleasant music from Soviet films creates an extraordinary atmosphere and helps to believe in a miracle. Also present will be able to see miniatures of theatrical groups of the city, playing scenes from famous Christmas films and musicals. The show has been organized by Aeroflot with the support of the local administration for the past five years.
