The Alexander Column stands at the centre of Palace Square in St Petersburg, between the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building. Designed by Auguste de Montferrand and erected between 1830 and 1834, it commemorates Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces. Look closely at the reliefs around the pedestal and the angel holding a cross at the top. The red granite column is a single block, held upright by its own weight, and the open square gives you clear views of the surrounding buildings.
A monument in Palace Square
The Alexander Column was designed by French architect Auguste de Montferrand and built between 1830 and 1834. It was commissioned by Nicholas I in memory of his brother, Alexander I, and commemorates Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces. The monument takes its name from the emperor, who ruled from 1801 to 1825.
The column occupies the centre of Palace Square, between the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building. Its position makes it easy to include in a walk around the square or as a meeting point before a visit to the Hermitage.
The granite column and pedestal
The column is carved from a single block of red granite. It stands by its own weight, without an attachment fixing it in place. At the top, an angel holds a cross. Around the pedestal, bas-reliefs reward a closer look from each side.
Walk around the monument to see the carved details and the way it sits within the square. The surrounding buildings provide different backdrops for photographs, including the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building. Musicians and costumed performers can also be present in the square; if you arrange a photograph with a performer, keep local tipping customs in mind.
FAQ
Where is the Alexander Column?
It stands in the centre of Palace Square in St Petersburg, between the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building.
What does the Alexander Column commemorate?
It commemorates Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces and is named for Emperor Alexander I.
How was the column built?
It was designed by Auguste de Montferrand and erected between 1830 and 1834. The red granite column is a single block held upright by its own weight.
