Marvel at this magnificent red-brick arch. This is the New Holland Arch. It stands proudly as a gateway to a fascinating history. Built between 1770 and 1779 it connects the Moika River to the inner basin of New Holland Island.
The New Holland Arch isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a testament to the ambition of 18th-century Russia. Its Neoclassical design was the work of Jean-Baptiste Vallin de la Mothe. He masterminded the construction of this impressive structure. The arch’s red brick contrasts beautifully with the massive Tuscan columns made of red granite. Each granite block weighed nearly four tons. Imagine the effort involved.
New Holland Island itself has a rich story. Created in 1719 it served as Russia’s first military port. Tsar Peter the Great even built a wooden palace here. For almost two centuries the island belonged to the Russian Admiralty. It housed shipyards warehouses and even a naval prison. Naval engineer Alexey Krylov used a basin on the island to test new ship models. The island even boasted the most powerful radio station in Imperial Russia during World War I.
The New Holland Arch has witnessed centuries of change. It has seen the rise and fall of empires. It’s silently watched the city evolve. After the 1917 Russian Revolution the island fell into disrepair. The New Holland Arch however stood firm a resilient symbol of St Petersburg’s enduring spirit.
Today this magnificent gateway welcomes visitors to a revitalized island. The New Holland Arch remains a treasured landmark. It stands as a powerful reminder of St Petersburg’s maritime past and its vibrant present. Take a moment to appreciate its grandeur. Feel the weight of history beneath your feet. Let the New Holland Arch transport you through time.