Did you know that DLT, or Dom Leningradskoy Torgovli, is more than just a department store? It is a historic landmark in St. Petersburg. Today, we will explore the story of this iconic building.
DLT is Saint Petersburg’s oldest department store. It opened in 1908-1909. It stands proudly in the heart of the “Northern capital”. Now, it is the flagship store of TSUM Moscow. TSUM Moscow is Russia’s main department store. DLT has become a fashion destination of international standard. It boasts the best product selection and excellent service.
DLT is ideally located. It is just a 5-minute walk from Kazan Cathedral. Other landmarks close by are St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the Church of the Savior on Blood. Palace Square, the State Hermitage, and the Russian Museum are also nearby. The gorgeous DLT building is a prime example of Art Nouveau architecture. It is one of Saint Petersburg’s must-see attractions.
Inside DLT, you will find collections of menswear, womenswear, and children’s wear. Shoes and accessories from world-leading brands are also available. Jewelry, beauty products, perfumery, optics, and interior design items fill its five floors. DLT offers over 700 brands. Many of these are exclusive to the store. Prices here are often lower than in Milan, London, or Dubai.
DLT provides many additional services for its guests. These include customer service and a loyalty program for international tourists. VIP shopping with a professional stylist is available. You can also enjoy a coffee and pastry shop inside. DLT offers wonderful shopping and leisure opportunities. It is a key place to visit in Saint Petersburg.
DLT began as the House of the Garrison Guard Economic Society in 1908. It was meant to be as luxurious as Parisian department stores. Officers of the garrison guard wanted a lavish shopping experience. The store quickly gained the nickname Guards’ Discount Shop. This was because of its discounted prices.
After the revolution in 1918, the store was reorganized into offices. It became the First State Department Store. In 1927, it was transformed into the House of the Leningrad cooperation LSPO. By the 1930s, it was known as the Torgsin department store. Finally, in 1935, it received its current name DLT.
In 2005, the state auctioned off the building’s rights to the Mercury company. Mercury is a leader in the Russian luxury retail market. From 2005 to 2012, renovations took place to transform it into a branch of TsUM. The retail area expanded from 9000 to 18000 square meters. The store reopened in September 2012.
Remember to explore DLT’s souvenir section on the first floor. You will find famous Russian handmade matryoshkas. Painted lacquer boxes and Baltic amber jewelry are also available. These items are created especially for DLT.
Before we move on, take one last look at Dom Leningradskoy Torgovli. It is a testament to St. Petersburg’s blend of history and high fashion. It offers not just shopping but also a glimpse into the city’s vibrant past.