Across the Fontanka River, the Belinskogo Bridge arches its back, a grand gateway between the vibrant Circus and the serene Church of Ss. Simon and Anna. The Belinskogo Bridge isn’t just a pathway; it’s a storyteller, whispering tales of centuries past. Originally built in 1733 as a humble wooden structure, the bridge has undergone a series of transformations, mirroring the ever-changing face of St. Petersburg. Imagine the year 1785. The city is abuzz with construction as granite embankments rise along the Fontanka River. The Belinskogo Bridge, then known as Simeonovsky Bridge, is reborn. It boasts a striking new design: a bascule bridge with a raising wooden span, flanked by domed towers housing the intricate lifting mechanism. These towers, sadly, were removed in 1859, but their legacy lingers in old photographs and the memories of those who once marveled at their presence. In 1890, a touch of elegance was added – the beautiful wrought-iron handrail that still graces the bridge today. Stand here now, on the Belinskogo Bridge. Feel the gentle sway beneath your feet, a subtle reminder of the river flowing below. Picture the carriages and trams that once traversed this very spot. Today, cars share the bridge with pedestrians, a constant flow of life connecting two distinct parts of the city. The Belinskogo Bridge has witnessed so much history unfold, from the grandeur of imperial Russia to the tumultuous 20th century. And yet, it stands, a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of St. Petersburg. As you cross the Belinskogo Bridge, remember its story. A story of transformation, connection, and a bridge that continues to serve the city, just as it has for centuries.
М. К. Прудников
Born into a peasant family in 1913, Mikhail Prudnikov’s journey began in a small village nestled within the Tomsk Governorate.