“Dirty” is not a word I’d use to describe this place today. Yet, it’s hard to believe the River Moyka, near the Admiralteysky canal, was once called “Muya” meaning dirty. We are standing near the Admiralteysky canal. This canal has witnessed Saint Petersburg’s transformation. It reflects the city’s ambition.
In 1717, Peter the Great ordered its construction. The Admiralteysky canal was cut from the Admiralty to Galernaya shipyard. The canal served a vital purpose. It was a transport route. It connected the Admiralty Shipyards and timber warehouses on New Holland Island.
Originally, it was called the Pryadilny Canal. This name came from textile stores nearby in the early 18th century. By 1738, it was renamed the Admiralty Canal.
The Admiralteysky canal played a crucial role in shipbuilding. Small galley ships were constructed here. The Galernaya shipyard was an auxiliary facility. It supported the main Admiralty.
However, the canal’s story took a turn in the 19th century. Most of the canal, stretching from the Admiralty to the Kryukov Canal, was filled in. This created space for Konnogvardeysky Boulevard. Only a portion of the Admiralteysky canal remained.
Wooden walls were built along the remaining stretch. Cross beams rested on wooden piles. Railings were installed. A wooden pavement lined the sidewalk.
In 1922, the canal was renamed the Krushtein Canal. This honored K.Ya. Krushtein. He was a Civil War participant. Krushtein was killed by socialist-revolutionaries. The embankment also took on the Krushtein name.
The Admiralteysky canal underwent further changes in 1959. Its banks were strengthened with granite. A low wall was built along New Holland Island. A higher wall was constructed along the opposite bank. Engineer E.E. Rosenfeld designed this project.
In 1967, a concrete wall with granite facing was added. This was at the confluence of the canal and the Moyka River. It was near the Khrapovitsky bridge.
Finally, in 1991, the canal regained its historical name. The Admiralty Canal and its embankment were restored. This was one of the first historical name restorations in Saint Petersburg.
If you look towards Ploshchad Truda Square, you will see a memorial plaque. It marks the section of the Admiralteysky canal filled in during the 19th century. It is located in the pedestrian underpass.
Today, the Admiralteysky canal stands as a reminder. It is a reminder of Saint Petersburg’s maritime past. It links the city’s historical core to its present. Its waters reflect centuries of change. From Pryadilny Canal to Admiralteysky Canal, its story continues.