The Peter and Paul Fortress may not have its own unique cuisine, but it is situated in Saint Petersburg, a city with a rich culinary history influenced by Russian and European cuisines. The fortress itself, constructed during the early 18th century by Peter the Great, has been part of Saint Petersburg's transformation from imperial capital to modern city. Throughout its history, the food within the city reflected the tastes of the aristocracy, incorporating French, Italian, and other Western cuisines, while also nurturing traditional Russian dishes that have been enjoyed across social strata.