Saint Petersburg, located in Northwestern Russia, is the country's second-largest city after Moscow. Founded by Tsar Peter the Great in 1703, it was the imperial capital for two centuries and remains Russia's cultural hub. The city's elaborate architecture reflects the successive periods of its history, with significant landmarks such as the Winter Palace, which houses the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest art collections in the world. The city's historic center, threaded with canals and dotted with baroque bridges, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Saint Petersburg is also known for the Mariinsky Theatre, hosting world-class opera and ballet, and the Saint Isaac's Cathedral, with its gilded dome and panoramic views. The city's sophisticated atmosphere, vibrant arts scene, and numerous palaces and museums make it a renowned destination for cultural tourism. The Neva River runs through Saint Petersburg, while the city itself spreads across numerous islands in the river delta, earning it the nickname 'Venice of the North'.
