“Built between 1826 and 1832.” That’s the whispered story of the Southern Warehouse. This often overlooked building is part of the architectural ensemble surrounding the Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange.
The Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange stands proudly on the spit of Vasilyevsky Island. It faces the Winter Palace. The Southern Warehouse complements the Exchange. Together they create a stunning vista.
Imagine this area in the early 19th century. Tsar Peter the Great envisioned this spit as the heart of St. Petersburg. Although the city center shifted, the area retained its importance. The Tsars could view it directly from the Winter Palace.
The Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange building is a neoclassical masterpiece. French architect Thomas de Thomon designed it. He drew inspiration from the Greek Temple of Hera at Paestum. Construction occurred between 1805 and 1810. The Southern Warehouse and Northern warehouse were erected later between 1826 and 1832. Architect Giovanni Luchini designed these buildings. They completed the architectural ensemble.
Look at the Stock Exchange. Notice the 44 Doric columns. They rest on a red granite base. Above the portico stands a statue. It depicts Neptune with the rivers Neva and Volkhov.
Originally, the Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange served a vital role in commerce. Peter the Great founded it inspired by the Amsterdam stock exchange. However, after the Bolsheviks seized power, its purpose changed. It became a sailor’s club and housed various institutions. In 1940, it became the Central Naval Museum.
Now, the Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange is returning to its original purpose. It will soon host the St. Petersburg International Commodities Exchange. This marks a new chapter in its history.
Consider the Rostral Columns flanking the Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange. De Thomon designed them. They once served as gas-fired navigational beacons. On special occasions, the gas torches are still lit.
The Southern Warehouse adds to the grandeur of this location. It witnessed the transformation of St. Petersburg. From imperial capital to Soviet city and back. It stands as a testament to the city’s enduring spirit. Take a moment to appreciate the complete picture. The Old Saint Petersburg Stock Exchange. The Rostral Columns. The Southern Warehouse. They form an unforgettable architectural ensemble. They tell the story of St. Petersburg’s rich history and enduring beauty.