St Petersburg: Three Centuries of Murderous Desire

St. Petersburg, founded by Peter the Great in 1703, is a magical, menacing, and influential city in Russia. It has been a window to Europe and the Enlightenment, but also a hotbed of war and revolution, a place of siege and starvation, and the crucible for Lenin and Stalin's power-hungry brutality. Jonathan Miles recreates the drama of three hundred years in the city, bringing us up to the present day, when its fate hangs in the balance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 608 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2018
Publisher: Cornerstone

St. Petersburg, a captivating city with a rich history, has emerged from the icy mists and flooded marshlands of the River Neva on the western edge of Russia. Established in 1703 by the visionary founder, Peter the Great, it quickly gained a reputation for its dazzling splendor and unhinged dominion. Throughout its various incarnations, St. Petersburg has embodied a perpetual contradiction. It served as a gateway to Europe and the Enlightenment, nurturing the artistic brilliance of renowned figures such as Pushkin, Dostoyevsky, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Pavlova, and Nureyev. Yet, beneath its glittering palaces and enchanting gardens, the city has witnessed the spilling of thousands of blood, enduring periods of war, revolution, siege, and starvation. It was the breeding ground for the ruthless brutality of Lenin and Stalin.

In his remarkable book, "St. Petersburg," Jonathan Miles delves into the drama of three hundred years in this extraordinary city, seamlessly transporting readers to the present day. The book is an epic tale of murder, massacre, and madness unfolding against the backdrop of squalor and splendor. It offers an unforgettable portrait of St. Petersburg and its people, capturing the essence of this captivating metropolis.

St. Petersburg's history is a tapestry of triumphs and tragedies, with its architecture reflecting the changing fortunes of the city. From the opulent palaces of the aristocracy to the humble dwellings of the working class, St. Petersburg has witnessed the ebb and flow of power and influence. The city's architecture, with its blend of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Soviet styles, is a testament to its rich cultural heritage.

One of the most iconic landmarks in St. Petersburg is the Winter Palace, the former residence of the Russian tsars. Built in the early 18th century, the palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with its grand halls, ornate fountains, and stunning chandeliers. The palace has played a significant role in Russian history, serving as the seat of government during the reign of Peter the Great and later becoming the home of the Russian royal family.

Another notable landmark is the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a stunning example of Neoclassical architecture. Built on the site of the assassination of Tsar Alexander II, the church is a symbol of Russian resilience and national pride. Its intricate design, with its blood-red walls and golden domes, is a testament to the country's artistic and cultural achievements.

St. Petersburg's cultural life is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of museums, theaters, and galleries. The State Russian Museum, one of the world's largest museums, houses an extensive collection of Russian art and artifacts, including works by Picasso, Matisse, and Van Gogh. The Mariinsky Theatre, one of the world's most renowned opera houses, hosts performances by renowned musicians and dancers from around the globe.

In addition to its cultural offerings, St. Petersburg is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea, offering picturesque beaches, picturesque parks, and picturesque gardens. The Neva River, which flows through the city, is a source of inspiration for many artists and writers, with its picturesque bridges and picturesque waterways.

Despite its many accolades, St. Petersburg has faced its share of challenges. The city has been the site of political unrest and social upheaval, with protests and demonstrations often taking place in the streets. In recent years, the city has also faced economic challenges, with a decline in tourism and a rise in unemployment.

Despite these challenges, St. Petersburg remains a vibrant and dynamic city, with a rich history, a vibrant cultural life, and stunning natural beauty. It is a place that continues to captivate and inspire people from all over the world, and a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Russian people.

In conclusion, St. Petersburg is an extraordinary city with a rich history, vibrant cultural life, and stunning natural beauty. It has faced its share of challenges, but its resilience and creativity continue to inspire people from all over the world. Whether you are interested in art, history, or nature, St. Petersburg has something to offer for everyone. As the city continues to evolve and change, it will undoubtedly remain a place of perpetual contradiction, a window on to Europe and the Enlightenment, and a hotbed of artistic and cultural brilliance.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780099592792