Russian St. Petersburg
Renowned as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Russian St. Petersburg is truly considered Russia’s tourist capital. Historic centre of St. Petersburg and palace-and-park ensembles of its suburbs constitute one of the largest UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Russian St. Petersburg is the youngest among big European cities. It is also the largest city situated that far to the north. St. Petersburg’s position on 60° of the northern latitude (same as the South of Alaska and Greenland) causes variation in day length across seasons. From May till July twilight may last all night. This natural phenomenon known as white nights is believed to be one of the greatest tourist attractions of the city. The city does not sleep during this time of the year – both tourists and locals like to stroll in the city center or go to the city’s main river Neva to watch drawbridges open at night to let big ships pass. Neva bridges go up every night during the navigation period from April to November when the river is ice free.
There are many reasons to visit Russian St. Petersburg, a city filled with cultural, historical, and architectural treasures. The city boasts more than 100 museums, 30 theatres, about 60 art galleries. Among the myriad of sights it is difficult sometimes to choose where to go first. St. Petersburg tours usually include visit to the Hermitage Museum, an essential stop for all those interested in art and history. Founded by Russian Empress Catherine the Great in 1764, the Hermitage Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the world. Its collections are housed and displayed in 6 magnificent buildings in the heart of St. Petersburg, including the Winter Palace – the former residence of Russian Emperors. The collection of the Hermitage Museum numbers over 3 million items ranging from prehistory to modern times. Along with unique collections of coins, jewelry and thousands of art objects from Central Asia, India, China, Egypt, Greece, and Rome, the Hermitage Museum houses outstanding collections of Western painting. Today the Hermitage Museum is one the most respected cultural centers in the world. It has branches in London, Las Vegas and Amsterdam. |
Nordic Travel is the official accommodation agent for St. Petersburg International Economic Forum 2010.
