Vasilyevsky Island

Vasilyevsky Island is one of the largest islands of the cultural capital of Russia. Historians say that it was originally created as the main center of St. Petersburg, because it is this place that accommodates most of the interesting places for visitors to visit. The largest length is 4.2 km from north to south, 6.6 km from west to east, and an area of 10.9 square kilometers.

History of origin

As mentioned above, it was here that Peter the Great intended to place the center of his creation. At the beginning of the 18th century, the first stone building in St. Petersburg was erected in this place - the famous Menshikov Palace for Senator and privy councilor Prince Menshikov. Not so long ago, a trading port was located here, which is reminiscent of the building of the Stock Exchange. However, soon Vasilyevsky Island ceased to be positioned as the center of St. Petersburg, becoming the most cultural point in Russia: the university and the Kunstkamera are located here.

Architecture of Vasilyevsky Island

Vasilyevsky Island is beautiful for its unique atmosphere of the former port - a cool breeze blows here from the bay, it is surrounded by a calm silk expanse of water, and a large number of ships can be seen along the embankments. On Vasilyevsky Island, you can see such a combination of eras and styles that you can hardly find anywhere else. Industrial buildings from the time of historicism, brick style, Stalinist, Art Nouveau are combined. Functionality is surprisingly easy to blend in with grace and decor. Every corner is thought out to the smallest detail. Tourists admire not so much the beauty of the most famous sights, but the beauty of the most ordinary streets, because the most famous architects of Russia worked on every building here.

Why it's worth visiting the island

Russians say that it is possible to experience the real past of St. Petersburg and really understand why millions of people love this city so much. It is this place that will answer the question without words. People fall in love with St. Petersburg here, and it is here that they want to return again and again. He even attracted poets. So, Brodsky wrote: "I don't want to choose a country or a churchyard. I will come to Vasilyevsky Island to die." Such a statement from a famous creator is difficult to ignore, and his words continue to be quoted in the 21st century.