Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Saint Petersburg

The Peter and Paul Cathedral is a Russian Orthodox cathedral inside the Peter and Paul Fortress on Hare Island along the Neva River. It is the first and oldest landmark in St. Petersburg, built between 1712 and 1733 under Peter the Great. Its gold-painted spire, topped by an angel holding a cross, reaches 123 meters and is one of the most important symbols of the city.

Don't miss

• Gold-painted spire reaching 123 meters, topped by an angel holding a cross
• Unique iconostasis that rises like a tower over the sanctuary
• Imperial tombs of almost all Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II and his family
• Flemish carillon with 51 bells, a gift from Flanders and over 350 sponsors

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Saint Petersburg

Cheapest way inVatican and St Peter Basilica Guided Tour With Dome4.7★ · 13 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →Most bookedGuided St. Pete Sightseeing Tour in Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart4.9★ · 509 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$49 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Golf Cart Tour - The History of St. Petersburg5★ · 13 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$49 per personSee dates →

Getting there

Know before you go

• The cathedral is inside the Peter and Paul Fortress on Hare Island along the Neva River.
• The bell tower houses a carillon; concerts are performed periodically.
• The cathedral houses the remains of almost all Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II.

A bit of history

The cathedral was built between 1712 and 1733, designed by Domenico Trezzini as the first stone church in St. Petersburg. It was the city's cathedral church until 1859. Closed in 1919, it became a museum in 1925; religious services resumed in 2000.