WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

In 1703 Peter the great wrested control of the River Neva from the Swedes, who at that time were one of the most warlike and powerful states in Europe and built the Peter and Paul fortress to consolidate his position.The beauty of its skyline belies the cruelty of what took place in there (somewhat similar to the Tower of London in this respect) Peter's own son was incarcerated here.The elegant golden spire stands atop the cathedral of SS Peter and Paul. After Peter's death in 1725 the cathedral became the last resting place for the Tsars.