Feel the cool Neva River breeze on your face. This is the Spit of Vasilievsky Island. A magnificent sight greets you.
The Spit of Vasilievsky Island is more than just a place. It’s a symbol. It represents Saint Petersburg’s glorious maritime past. Peter the Great initially planned a port elsewhere. Shallow waters changed his plans. He chose this strategic point. The Neva River splits here into two arms. The shape of this cape also influenced his decision. It’s called a strelka in Russian. Something grand had to be built here.
The Stock Exchange dominates the view. It resembles an ancient Greek temple. This impressive building is featured on the 50 ruble banknote. Its attic displays sculptures. Neptune is there with two river gods. These sculptures depict the very picture you see on that banknote.
But the Stock Exchange isn’t the whole story. Flanking the Stock Exchange are the Rostral Columns. These weren’t just decorative. They initially served as lanterns. These columns lit the Saint Petersburg port at night and in fog. The columns’ design is inspired by ancient Roman tradition. They used the rostra from defeated enemy ships. This tradition continues to this day. The columns symbolize naval victories.
Today the Spit is vibrant. In warm weather it’s alive with salsa bachata and tango. Dancers gather near the Rostral Columns. They enjoy dancing under the open sky.
Walking along the promenade you enjoy the views. You can see the Peter and Paul Fortress. The entire Neva River panorama unfolds before you. The perfect ensemble of rostral columns and the Stock Exchange is a unique picture. It’s a view known to many Russians since childhood. The Spit of Vasilievsky Island is a must-see. It offers an iconic angle on this beautiful city. It shows Saint Petersburg’s ambitious past. And it showcases its lively present.