Lines from Alexander Pushkin's famous poem "I erected a monument to myself…" have become a kind of hymn to Palace Square, which is impossible to imagine without the famous fifty-meter Alexandria Column. This place is the heart of St. Petersburg, captivating everyone without exception with its beauty and originality. There are always a lot of people here and the atmosphere of celebration and fun always reigns. 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 - St. 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 in 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 associated 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 Admir alteyskaya. It's hard to imagine now, but it's true.
- Another interesting fact is related to the unusual secret of the Alexander Column. It is believed that this monument, weighing about eight hundred tons, was not attached to the pedestal by anything during construction and it is held only by its own gravity. At first, the townspeople were even afraid to walk next to the column, but over time they forgot about this fact.
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. Throughout the eighteenth century, such famous masters as Auguste Montferan, Carl Rossi and others worked on the creation of its architectural ensemble. The Palace Square is shaped like a giant circle, on one side 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 Russia's victory in the Patriotic War of 1812. At the top of the column is a soaring angel trampling on the crosssnake. 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 find another like it 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 such events as City Day, New Year, Navy Day, and ending with concerts of Russian and world stage stars, whose performances can be watched for free.
Celebration shows and fireworks
Each event on Palace Square is carefully prepared, a program is drawn up with fun contests and drawings of prizes and souvenirs, the most incendiary hosts from famous showmen are selected who charge residents and guests of the city with positive and positive emotions. In addition, the best teams of the city with amazing rooms are invited. In the final part of the holiday, an enchanting salute usually begins, which will not leave anyone indifferent! This is a real colorful show that everyone should watch at least once in their life. The fireworks last about half an hour, and during this time the sky lights up with all the colors of the rainbow.
Amonginteresting one-time events held on Palace Square, I would like to highlight the most memorable ones, according to citizens' reviews: the All-Russian festival "Vivat Cinema of Russia!", where everyone could see the parade of retro cars and enjoy musical compositions from their favorite films, and grandiose flash mobs dedicated to 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 in the memory of all who were lucky enough to watch it live for a long time. 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 laser light installations, which are projected on the walls of the General Staff Building with the help of special equipment. 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, those present will be able to see miniatures of the theater 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.
"Scarlet Sails": forward to the dream
The main holiday of the city on the Neva, which received its name as a symbol of faith ina bright future, the fulfillment of all hopes and aspirations and eternal youth. On this festive evening, everyone congratulates the graduates of the eleventh grade on the long-awaited graduation from school and the entry into an adult, great life. The holiday is celebrated from June 23 to the 24th. Concert programs are held at two venues: on the Palace and on the spit of Vasilyevsky Island.
The whole action starts at 22.00. First, the mayor of the city will congratulate the guys, then the best beginner youth groups from St. Petersburg will take the stage, and then famous performers, whom the graduates traditionally choose themselves, will perform. But the main part of the holiday - a delightful fire show in the Neva - will begin at 00.30.
And immediately after the start of the salute, the symbol of the holiday will appear - a ship with scarlet sails. It will solemnly pass along the Neva to a special composition. If you suddenly find yourself in St. Petersburg at the end of June, then be sure to visit this event, pleasant impressions and a lot of positive emotions are guaranteed!