Saint-Petersburg

Saint-Petersburg is situated in the north-west of Russia where the Neva river flows into the Gulf of Finland. Nearly 300 years ago the first Russian emperor Peter I founded it as the new capital of the Russian empire. And the city remained the Russian capital for more than 200 years. Saint-Petersburg is often called the Northern capital of Russia, the Northern Palmira or Venice of the North.

Saint Petersburg is a phenomenon of world culture. Being one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it was created by the talent of Russian people and magnificent architects both from Russia and Europe. Its captivating architectural ensembles, the beautiful bridges, railings, embankments of the Neva river and the numerous canals, the palaces and parks - all these impresses anybody who comes here.

Today St. Petersburg is a large industrial, transport, scientific and cultural centre of Russia, with a population of 5 mln people. It covers 620 sq. km on 42 islands, formed by the Neva and its arms, and it has grown until it reaches the coast of the Gulf of Finland.

Within easy reach of the capitals of Europe and Scandinavia St. Petersburg is one of the largest centres of world tourism with an enormous infrastructure for holidaymaking and entertainments.