St Petersburg Russia - part 3

Peter and Paul Fortress is the first and oldest landmark in St. Petersburg having been built between 1712 and 1733 on the perfect spot to defend the city, Hare Island. The daily firing of the cannon reminds you of its original purpose. On nearby Vasilyevsky Island stand two Rostral Columns (right) that are lit up for public holidays. These victory columns also once operated as beacons to indicate the two main channels of the Neva River.