Today was the earliest morning of our holiday so far. The Constellation was due to dock at 7:00 with disembarkation expected around 7:30. We had pre-booked an all inclusive 2 day tour here in St Petersburg and were keen to get off the ship and find our tour operator. However, entering Russia is a much more serious affair than entering other countries. Unlike just about anywhere else we had to go through the complete immigration procedure which added about 20 minutes to the process of getting off the ship. From here on in though all was well. We were met by our very bright and cheery tourguide, Nadya who also spoke perfect English. In no time we were on our way into St Petersburg.
This is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and linked in many ways to the history of Russia and the Soviet Union. During the Soviet era it was called Leningrad but it has now reverted to its original name of St Petersburg.
Our first stop was the fabulous Faberge museum which houses some of the 50 or so Faberge Easter eggs commissioned by various Russian Czars. These fabulous pieces of art are priceless, and the design and finish of them defies comprehension. It was a priceless experience being able to see them up close and to have Nadya explain their history. Unfortunately no photography was allowed.
From here we then drove to the Hermitage which incorporates the famous Winter Palace and over a number of years became one of the greatest art collections in the world. In one room alone we saw 25 Rembrandts. There are also works of art by Titian, Renoir, Gaugain, Leonardo Davinci, Carravagio, Michelangelo and Degas. Our two hour tour of this fabulous place only provides an overview but what an experience it was.
Our tour included lunch at the Legran Restaurant which is located in the cellar under a grand building. The meal and the wine were both very good.
From here we were off to the Cathedral of Spilt Blood, which was built to commemorate a Russian Czar who was assassinated on the very spot. It is built in the classic Russian style complete with onion shape domes. The interior is completely covered in mosaics so fine that they look like oil paintings. This is one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen.
St Petersburg is sometimes referred to as the Venice of the North. Amsterdam and its canals provided the inspiration for the network of canals and rivers which are a feature of this city, and the first day of our tour was completed by a view of the city from a cruise boat.
Day 2 of the tour starts at 7:30 in the morning.
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