If you’re in Saint Petersburg either on business or a day-long stopover and feel like sightseeing but are at a loss as to which place of interest to see first, then you should certainly decide on St. Isaac’s Cathedral and its choultry (columns).
In this place historic Petersburg seems to be in full view. At the very beginning of the 18th century the cathedral used to be a small wooden church constructed in honor of Saint Isaac of Dalmatia. It’s interesting to note, that Peter the Great had been born on that saint’s day. The emperor highly venerated him. Later he married in the church of Saint Isaac. Gradually, the church was reconstructed in masonry. At the end of the 18th century the cathedral appeared to be closed for the fourth time as Alexander I considered it unsuitable for solemn downtown St. Petersburg. The further construction lasted for half a century. When building the cathedral, 43 different minerals were used; for that very reason St. Isaac’s Cathedral is known as a museum of semi-precious stones. The basement of the cathedral is lined with granite, walls – with marble. An immense dome encircled with columns dominates above the great building. The dome was casted in iron and then gilded with about 100 kilos of gold. The interior was designed by the most famous masters of that period.
In 1858 St. Isaac’s Cathedral was consecrated by Gregory Postnikov – a metropolitan of St. Petersburg, Novgorod, Estonia and Finland. St. Isaac’s Cathedral is widely known for its Choultry – a remarkable viewing point of the city. The choultry plain rises 43 metres and greets the Neva river and the amazing architecture of downtown St. Petersburg. Walking a winding staircase, one becomes 562 steps closer to the sky and enjoys this picturesque view to the full extent. The construction of the choultry plain began in the second quarter of the 19th century immediately after the dome had been installed. Tourists are incredibly thrilled when viewing the entire city.
Today the cathedral is a historical museum; since June, 1999 it’s officially considered a church. Thenceforth St. Isaac’s Cathedral holds prayers, worship activities, services on feast days, and takes part in St. Petersburg’s festive occasions.
The cathedral’s capacity is great. 101,5 metres high, it admits about 15 000 people. St. Isaac’s Cathedral, the highest example of religious architecture and the largest cathedral in St. Petersburg, will leave no one indifferent. The cathedral’s exterior and interior are equally gorgeous.
- Services of a professional guide;
- Guide’s advice and recommendations;
- Outdoor sightseeing tour along St. Isaac’s Square;
- Entrance tickets to St. Isaac’s Cathedral and its choultry;
- Admission to St. Isaac’s Cathedral;
- Photography and video recording inside the cathedral;
- Admission to the choultry;
- Visiting the statue of Peter the Great “The Bronze Horseman”.
Please note that the choultry plain is difficult to rise!
Documents to take along: passport (ID) or copy. Other recommended items: a camera, suitable clothing and shoes for the weather.
Closed on Wednesdays and on the 1st of January.
Tourists’ safety provision follows the requirements of All-Union State Standard (GOST Р 5064494).
Tour Confirmation Within 24 Hours.
No cancellation fees more than 72 hours in advance
Reservation changes can be processed up to 3 days (72 hours) prior to the start of a tour. In case cancellations are carried out more than 72 hours in advance, 100 % of the total cost of a tour is refunded. If reservation is cancelled within 24-72 hours prior to the start of a tour, 50 % of its total cost is refunded. If reservation is cancelled less than 24 hours in advance, no refund is granted.
PAYMENT FOR A CHILD UNDER 18 IS EQUAL TO THAT OF AN ADULT.
0.5 km
one way
Our guide chose the perfect time and we enjoy the view and excursion. St Petersburg magnificent . But remember to wear decent shoes for climbing stairs.
