Numerous travel agencies and excursion routes bring hundreds of tourists every day to one of the most popular attractions of the city - to Vasilievsky Island, whose arrow with Rostral columns and the Exchange building we see on thousands of postcards. Regardless of the day of the week, at any time of the day, you can meet newlyweds who celebrate the beginning of a new life in the center of their beloved city.
Historical reference
Since the founding of the city, Vasilievsky Island has played an important part in its life. Arrow (the so-called eastern end) was originally designed by architects to be built up with houses. However, the plan was changed, since Peter the Great decided to make this site one of the centers of the business and cultural life of the city. At his command, the architect Domenico Trezzini designed a new ensemble, which included the buildings of the Kunstkamera, the Exchange, and the Rostral Columns.
As conceived by Peter the Great, the city began with the development of Hare Island, which was to become a center of trade. But since it was small enough, the platform of the main actions was moved to Vasilievsky Island. Arrow played a large role not only in commercial matters, but also in the further development of the city. The Exchange building, customs, warehouses were moved here, Gostiny Dvor was erected here.
Stock exchange
The Exchange building flaunts at the head of the entire architectural ensemble. That it is one of the business cards that St. Petersburg is known all over the world for. The Spit of Vasilyevsky Island is one of the most important and beautiful sights of the city. It is nice to be here at any time of the year, it offers a beautiful view of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace and the Neva Delta.
The architectural style in which the Exchange building is built is classicism. The architect was J.F. Thoma de Thomon. The space in front of the building was divided into two squares - Kollezhskaya and Birzhevaya. After the construction of the Exchange building, as planned by the architects, the space in front of it was increased by 100 meters. Thus, a contrast was created between the architectural components and equipped with a space for the approach of ships. Gentle slopes decorated with granite balls lead to the water.
Rostral columns
Another symbol distinguishes Vasilievsky island. The arrow is decorated with two Rostral columns, which were erected as beacons for the ships. They were guided by their light when entering the port. The height of the columns is 32 meters. They were symbols of the greatness of the sea power of the state. Their bow are the bow of the ship, and the figures that are located at the foot symbolize the great rivers - the Volga, Dnieper, Neva and Volkhov.
Currently, one of the most interesting sites to visit in the city is Vasilievsky Island. His arrow offers to visit such interesting museums as Zoological, Soil Science, Literary, Kunstkamera and the Central Naval. Strelka Vasilievsky Island invites you to see their exhibits, as well as enjoy a magnificent view. The address of these museums is known to many, so do not forget to visit them.