The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul

The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, also known as the Peter and Paul Cathedral, is a historic Russian Orthodox cathedral located within the Peter and Paul Fortress on the Neva River. It is the oldest landmark in St. Petersburg, built between 1712 and 1733 under Peter the Great. The cathedral features a distinctive bell tower with a golden spire, topped by an angel holding a cross. Inside, the iconostasis is a masterpiece of carved wood and gilt, and the walls are adorned with paintings and chandeliers. The cathedral serves as the burial place of most Russian emperors and empresses from Peter the Great to Nicholas II and his family. Visitors can also climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.

Don't miss

• The golden spire and angel weathervane, a city icon
• The ornate carved iconostasis with icons
• The imperial tombs of Peter the Great, Catherine the Great, and Nicholas II
• The bell tower climb for views of the fortress and city
• The adjacent Grand Ducal Mausoleum

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul

Cheapest way inSt. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour5★ · 628 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$18 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 →

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Know before you go

• Dress respectfully: women may cover their heads, and men should remove hats.
• Photography is allowed inside without flash; tripods may require a permit.
• Bring cash for tickets and souvenirs; cards may not be accepted at all kiosks.
• Allow extra time to explore the entire fortress complex, including the prison and museum.

A bit of history

Commissioned by Peter the Great as the first stone church in the city, it was designed by Domenico Trezzini. The cathedral became the royal burial vault, with tombs of the Romanov dynasty. After the Russian Revolution, it was turned into a museum, and services resumed in the 1990s.