Fortresses of St. Petersburg

The Fortresses of St. Petersburg are a series of military structures built between the late 17th and early 20th centuries to defend Russia’s new Baltic capital from external threats. Key examples include the Peter and Paul Fortress, which served as the city’s foundation and military base, and the Kronstadt Fortress, located on nearby an island critical for naval defense. These fortresses feature thick walls, bastions, and strategic positioning to protect against invasions, ensuring Russia’s access to the Baltic Sea. Over time, they also became symbols of imperial power and military innovation.