Saint Petersburg, a city rich in history and architectural splendor, is home to some of Russia’s most iconic landmarks. Among these, the Old Stock Exchange and the Rostral Columns stand as symbols of the city’s maritime legacy, architectural beauty, and economic importance. These structures, located on Vasilievsky Island, offer visitors a chance to step back in time and explore Saint Petersburg’s role as a trading hub, as well as its grand classical design. In this article, we will explore the significance, history, and architectural beauty of the Old Stock Exchange and the Rostral Columns, as well as what visitors can expect when they visit these historic sites.
The Old Stock Exchange
A Monument to Saint Petersburg’s Maritime Heritage
The Old Stock Exchange (Staryy Birzhevoy) is one of the most important and historically significant buildings in Saint Petersburg. Situated at the heart of the city’s historic Vasilievsky Island, the Stock Exchange has played a crucial role in the city’s development as a center for commerce and trade, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries.
History and Significance
The Old Stock Exchange was designed by the renowned architect Jean-Baptiste Vallin de la Mothe in the early 19th century and completed in 1805. Built in neoclassical style, the building was originally intended to house the offices and trading floors for merchants and financial transactions. Its design reflects the importance of Saint Petersburg’s port and maritime trade, which were vital to the Russian Empire’s economy during this period.
The building’s significance extends beyond its role as a financial center. It has served as a symbol of Saint Petersburg’s prosperity and the city’s connection to the sea. Its location along the Neva River reinforced the notion of Saint Petersburg as a major naval power, and the structure’s classical architecture pays homage to the ancient traditions of Roman and Greek civic buildings.
Architectural Features
The Old Stock Exchange is a prime example of neoclassical architecture, characterized by its simplicity, symmetry, and grandeur. The building’s design features a long, colonnaded façade with large, evenly spaced columns. This portico gives the building an air of dignity and importance, while the central pediment emphasizes its classical influences.
The Stock Exchange is most notable for its location and integration into the surrounding landscape. Its portico faces the Neva River, with panoramic views of the water and the Rostral Columns, providing a striking visual connection between the two sites. The building is framed by expansive open spaces, which were designed to create an imposing, yet harmonious atmosphere.
- Insider Tip: Be sure to visit the Old Stock Exchange in the late afternoon when the sun sets over the Neva River, casting a warm light across the building and the Rostral Columns, making for a perfect photo opportunity.
The Rostral Columns
A Symbol of Saint Petersburg’s Naval Power
The Rostral Columns are perhaps one of the most recognizable landmarks in Saint Petersburg. These two monumental columns stand at the entrance to the Neva River, near the Old Stock Exchange, and serve as a symbol of Russia’s naval strength and maritime heritage.
History and Significance
The Rostral Columns were designed by Jean-François Thomas de Thomon in the early 19th century and completed in 1810. The columns were originally erected to celebrate Russia’s victories in naval battles and were intended to serve as navigational markers for ships entering the Neva River. The word “rostral” comes from the Latin word “rostrum”, which refers to the beak or prow of a ship, symbolizing maritime power.
Each column stands about 32 meters tall and is adorned with intricate carvings and symbolic figures. The Rostral Columns represent not only Saint Petersburg’s importance as a port city but also the broader significance of Russia as a naval power during the 19th century.
Architectural Features
The columns are constructed of red granite and are topped with bronze sculptures, which depict various nautical motifs such as ships’ prows, anchors, and sea monsters. Each column is decorated with symbolic elements that represent different aspects of naval power and the importance of the sea to Russian trade and defense.
At the top of each column stands a large flame holder, which originally functioned as a lighthouse, guiding ships along the Neva River at night. Today, the columns are illuminated during certain events, adding to their majestic presence and significance in Saint Petersburg’s skyline.
- Insider Tip: The Rostral Columns are a popular spot for photos, particularly at sunset or when illuminated in the evening. During major holidays or cultural festivals, such as Scarlet Sails during the White Nights Festival, the columns are often lit up with bright, festive colors, making for a spectacular display.
Visiting the Old Stock Exchange and Rostral Columns
How to Get There
Both the Old Stock Exchange and the Rostral Columns are located on Vasilievsky Island, one of the city’s most historically rich areas. To get there, visitors can take the metro (the nearest station is Vasileostrovskaya, Line 3) or walk across the Dvorцovyy Bridge from the city center. The Rostral Columns are easy to spot from the bridge, making them an ideal starting point for exploring the island.
- Insider Tip: Combine your visit to the Old Stock Exchange and Rostral Columns with a walk along the riverfront to admire the views of the Winter Palace and the Hermitage Museum. The area around the columns is also home to the University Embankment, offering beautiful vistas of the Neva River.
What to See Nearby
The Old Stock Exchange and Rostral Columns are surrounded by some of the most significant architectural and cultural landmarks in Saint Petersburg. Just a short walk from these sites, you can visit:
- The Hermitage Museum: One of the world’s largest and most famous art museums, located near the Winter Palace.
- The Peter and Paul Fortress: A historic fortress that houses the tombs of Russian emperors and offers panoramic views of the city.
- The University of Saint Petersburg: Russia’s oldest university, located nearby and offering beautiful classical architecture.
The area is also home to various cafés and restaurants, providing a perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Conclusion
The Old Stock Exchange and Rostral Columns are not just historic landmarks in Saint Petersburg; they are powerful symbols of the city’s maritime and economic heritage. These stunning architectural feats stand proudly at the heart of the city’s cultural and historical landscape, offering visitors an unforgettable glimpse into Russia’s imperial past. Whether you are an architecture lover, history buff, or simply a tourist looking to explore the beauty of Saint Petersburg, these iconic landmarks are not to be missed.
