Palace Square is St Petersburg’s central public square, in front of the Winter Palace, which now houses the Hermitage Museum. Its broad open space brings together the palace, the General Staff Building and the Alexander Column, with the Admiralty and St Isaac’s Cathedral visible nearby. Walk around to take in the buildings from different angles, or continue through the arch in the General Staff Building. Street musicians and performers often appear in the square, especially in the evening. It is a natural stop alongside a visit to the Hermitage.
The square and its buildings
Palace Square is the main square of St Petersburg. Its architectural ensemble took shape in the 18th and 19th centuries, around the Winter Palace. Today, the palace houses the Hermitage Museum, and the square remains a public gathering place as well as a setting for major city events.
The Winter Palace’s turquoise, white and gold facade faces the square. Opposite it, the General Staff Building curves around the open space, with a Triumphal Arch at its centre. The former Guards Corps Headquarters is also part of the ensemble. Together, these buildings frame the square on a monumental scale, so it is worth walking around rather than viewing everything from one spot.
The square is part of St Petersburg’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its central location also makes it easy to include on a city-centre walk: Nevsky Prospect is nearby, and the square has views towards the Admiralty and St Isaac’s Cathedral.
The Alexander Column
At the centre of the square stands the Alexander Column, a monolith of red granite erected in 1834 to commemorate Russia’s victory over Napoleon. It was commissioned by Alexander I. An angel tops the column, whose height is given as about 47 metres in the material describing the square.
The column draws the eye from several points around the plaza. Look at it against the Winter Palace and the General Staff Building to see how it anchors the open space. Its red stone also contrasts with the pale facades surrounding it.
A place shaped by public events
Palace Square has been the setting for significant moments in Russian history, including Bloody Sunday in 1905 and events connected with the October Revolution of 1917. Military parades and large public gatherings have also taken place here. In more recent decades, the square has hosted concerts, performances and celebrations, including the Scarlet Sails school graduation event.
The atmosphere changes over the course of the day. Daytime can bring large numbers of visitors, particularly at weekends. In the evening, street musicians and other performers may be out in the square or nearby. If you want a quieter walk, choose an early or late visit; if you are interested in performances, an evening stroll gives you a chance to encounter them.
FAQ
Is Palace Square free to visit?
The square is a public open space, and the views of its buildings and the Alexander Column can be enjoyed from outside. Entry to the Hermitage Museum is separate.
What can you see at Palace Square?
The square is framed by the Winter Palace, the General Staff Building and the former Guards Corps Headquarters. The Alexander Column stands at its centre.
When is Palace Square less busy?
Early morning and late evening are suggested for a quieter visit. The square can be especially busy during the day on weekends.
How long should you spend at Palace Square?
The available information does not give a typical visit length. Plan extra time if you also intend to visit the Hermitage galleries.
