St. Petersburg is known as the Venice of the North. Our Russian guide thought it was much more impressive than Venice though! There are rivers that crisscross the city, and with that a lot of folklore too. At this stop we were told to whisper our wish into the lions ear and it would be granted...but you couldn't wish for money!
The Hermatage
The Hermatage is a collection of several buildings that house an enormous art collection. If you were to look at every peice for 30 seconds it would take you over three years to see everything! I recommend going in the dead of winter if you want to see much of anything though, because at this time of year it is horrendously crowded. This is us standing in front of the main building, the Winter Palace.
The famous Jordan Staircase
Throne Room
Davinci - Madonna and child
Brandie teaching Coral
Coral walked through the Hermatage covering her eyes. She was so embarrassed by all the statues! I'm going to have to take her to Florence and make her stand in front of the David!
This (below) is the old Hermatage building where all the Renaissance paintings are held. Brandie so wanted to see a few works in there but we just didn't have time.
This church was built on the spot where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated. This is what I wanted to see more than anything, and it did not disappoint. Each dome was topped with an Orthodox cross. The mosaic frescos were gorgeous.
Peterhof Summer Palace
While the Hermatage was the Winter Palace, in the summer the royals would live here. The summer palace is again breath taking with all of its fountains and gardens. It also had more statues at which to make wishes. At the end of this fountain is the Gulf of Finland.
No trip is complete without some shopping.
Rubbing Atlas' feet for more good luck.
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