St Petersburg, Russia

"What's in a name?" In the case of St. Petersburg, Russia, there is a lot. In 1703 Tzar Peter I (Peter the Great) built a city on the site of the conquered Swedish fort of Nyenschnatz. This city was to be "The Window to Europe." It was named St. Petersburg and it was the Russian Capital until 1917. Leaders and architects ensured that St. Petersburg was rich with breathtaking landmarks. At the outbreak of World War I the name changed to Petrograd (Peter's City.) In 1924 when Lenin died, Petrograd was renamed Leningrad, a tribute to the national hero. In 1991 the citizens voted to restore the name of St. Petersburg, coming full circle. The locals call their city Piter. Stroll along the granite-clad Neva River on the long, bright summer evening and you will understand why it is also known as "The City of White Nights." Come tour through history with legendary figures and buildings of St. Petersburg.