Overview:

The Fontanka River is a minor river located in St. Petersburg, Russia. Also known as the Voronka, it is a tributary of the Neva that runs through the city before merging with the Neva near the Summer Garden. The river is an important part of the city's cultural heritage and is surrounded by 17th century buildings, churches, palaces, and monuments. The embankment of the Fontanka has been a popular walking destination for centuries and continues to be a popular spot for strolling and enjoying the sights of the city. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Russia
Prominent Features:

The Embankment of the Fontanka River in St. Petersburg stretches for nearly 14km and borders many of the stunning buildings of this historic city. The embankment runs along both banks of the Fontanka River and is lined with baroque statues of Hercules, pediments, balustrades and other sculptures. There are also several historic residences along the river's edge, including famed artist Ilya Repin's home, the Yusupov Palace and the Sheremetev Palace, among others. Visitors can take a boat tour of the river to admire the impressive architecture from the decks of a traditional Russian vessel. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Russia.

History:

The embankment of the Fontanka River in St. Petersburg, regarded as the golden river of the city, is a unique natural and cultural heritage of the Russian North-West. Its history goes back to the beginning of the 18th century, when in 1703, Peter the Great founded St. Petersburg, and dammed the Fontanka River as part of his plan to redirect the Neva and improve the navigability of the area. In order to protect the city from flooding, a special earthen rampart was built to contain the rising waters. In 1718, a first stone embankment was built along the banks of the Fontanka River, providing better protection for the city and allowing for easier navigation of the river. Following this, numerous bridges, quays and palaces were built along the length of the embankment. The embankment has since served as one of the city’s main thoroughfares, with districts of fine buildings, parks and promenades. The Baroque style architecture of the time has been retained, and every year the embankment is lined with fragrant lime trees. Over the course of centuries, the Fontanka Embankment has become a beloved part of St. Petersburg, and a hallmark of the city’s river culture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Russia with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The stretch of the Fontanka River between the Summer Gardens and the Field of Mars is the most popular spot for watching sunsets in Saint Petersburg. 2. The embankment is also referred to as the home of the downtown art scene, with a wide variety of galleries and art festivals organized there each year. 3. One side of the embankment is lined with small private apartments, which are over 300 years old. 4. Parts of the embankment are still liberally decorated by remnants of 18th and 19th century buildings. 5. The Russian Academy of Sciences, one of the oldest scientific institutions in the world, was founded in the Fontanka district in 17... 6. There is a detailed history of the Fontanka area on its official website. 7. The River Fontanka was a key element in Dostoevsky's novel Crime and Punishment. 8. Every summer a traditional light and music show is held at the Fontanka embankment, which is always packed with locals and tourists alike. One of the historical monuments of Russia, it tells the story of a bygone era