Day 2 in St. Petersburg. We were docked on the English Embankment & walking distance from the Hermitage museum. Other cruise ships visiting the city were docked several miles away. Another advantage of smaller ship cruising.
Mornings started just off the dock.
This gentleman greeted us as we left Immigration.
Exiting & entering the ship meant going through Russian immigration. Just a minor annoyance & no more. Visa stamps made me legitimate.
The Hermitage Palace Museum. One of Catherine the Greats' smaller homes that was turned into a museum just to show off her possessions.
Back side of the museum. The ridiculously huge square is surrounded by additional buildings that became part of the museum.
A bit of the architecture.
This is the line that quickly formed before the museum opening. We were at the very front of the line & were allowed in a few minutes early. Our cruise company has the right connections.
I have no clue. Use Google Translate to discover what is said.
Inside.
Yes, the throne room.
St. Petersburg is laced with canals. We took a ride on one of the tourist boats.
Yes, It is that close.
The Cathedral of Spilled Blood.
The cathedral was built around this one spot. This is where Emperor Alexander II was assassinated.
The entire interior is covered with mosaic tile. Absolutely stunning!
St. Isaac Cathedral
The inside.
These green columns are a statement to the level of opulence afforded to the Russian elite. These are Malachite stone. Look it up. It was normal to see these or others of Lapis Lazuli mined in Afghanistan.
A calming view after another tough day of being a tourist. Being an "All Inclusive" cruise, it was easy to board ship & immediately find a bar.
Next post: Day 3 at the Grand Palace of Peterhof.
One item of note: While reviewing photos after we returned home, I discovered my camera was showing signs of age. Images were missing & the metadata was bonkers. Methinks a new camera is in order.
