Peter and Paul Fortress tickets and guided tours

Built by order of Peter the Great between 1706 and 1740, The Peter and Paul Fortress is the original citadel of Saint Petersburg and is built on an island along the Neva River. It is a defensive star fortress, erected according to the projects of the Swiss Italian architect Domenico Trezzini.

The main purpose of the structure was to defend the area from any possible attacks from the Swedish armed forces, but the fort never fulfilled its martial purpose. The Swedish army was defeated prior to the completion of the fortress, so instead, it became a high security prison for political prisoners during the 18th century, and continued this function after the Bolshevik Revolution.

Today, the Fortress is one of Saint Petersburg's most famous touristic landmarks, hosting the State Museum of Saint Petersburg History. At the center of the complex rises the Peter and Paul Cathedral, with its 404 foot high bell-tower. Take a guided tour of the fortress and explore the burial place of all Russian tsars from Peter I to Alexander III, with the only exception of Peter II and Ivan VI.

The still functioning Saint Petersburg Mint can also be found on Hare island. It is one of only two places in Russia where medals and coins are minted.

The Peter and Paul Fortress is open from Thursday-Tuesday from 10 am to 4 pm. The fortress can be accessed by foot or public transportation. Metro stations "Gorkovskaya" and "Sportivnaya" are within walking distance, or you can take tram number 6 or 40, or by bus 46. Book full day tours of St Petersburg and have round trip rides included to and from your hotel.