Numerous travel agencies and sightseeing routes bring hundreds of tourists every day to one of the most popular sights of the city - Vasilyevsky Island, whose Arrow with Rostral columns and the Stock 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 here who celebrate the beginning of a new life in the center of their beloved city.
Historical background
From the moment the city was founded, Vasilyevsky Island played an important part in its life. The arrow (as its eastern tip is called) was originally supposed to be built up with houses according to the project of the architects. However, the plan was changed, as Peter the Great decided to make this site one of the centers of business and cultural life of the city. At his behest, the architect Domenico Trezzini designed a new ensemble, which included the buildings of the Kunstkamera, the Stock Exchange, and the Rostral Columns.
According to the idea of Peter the Great, the city began with the development of Hare Island, which was supposed to become a center of trade. But since it was shallow enough, the site of the main actions was moved to Vasilyevsky Island. Arrowplayed an important role not only in trade affairs, but also in the further development of the city. The building of the Exchange, customs, warehouses were moved here, the Gostiny Dvor was erected here.
Exchange
The Exchange building flaunts at the head of the entire architectural ensemble. It is it that is one of the business cards for which St. Petersburg is known all over the world. The Spit of Vasilevsky Island is one of the most important and beautiful sights of the city. It is pleasant to be here at any time of the year, from here you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Winter Palace and the Neva Delta.
The architectural style in which the Exchange building was built is classicism. The architect was J. F. Thomas de Thomon. The space in front of the building was divided into two squares - Kollezhskaya and Birzhevaya. After the construction of the Exchange building, according to the plan of the architects, the space in front of it was increased by 100 meters. Thus, a contrast was created between the architectural components and the space for the approach of ships was equipped. Gentle slopes, decorated with granite balls, lead to the water.
Rostral columns
One more character distinguishes Vasilyevsky Island. The arrow is decorated with two Rostral columns, which were erected as beacons for 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 decorations are the bows of the ships, and the figures that are located at the foot symbolize the great rivers - the Volga, the Dnieper,Neva and Volkhov.
Currently, one of the most interesting places to visit in the city is Vasilyevsky Island. Arrow offers to visit such interesting museums as Zoological, Soil Science, Literary, Kunstkamera and Central Naval. Spit of Vasilevsky Island invites you to see their exhibits, as well as enjoy the magnificent view. The address of these museums is known to many, so be sure to visit them.
