The landscape development of Saint Petersburg (1853–2003)

Abstract

Saint Petersburg is said to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The old city of Saint Petersburg is designated by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a World Heritage site. Historical heritage, as represented by old buildings of the city, must be protected and preserved. However, no proper heed is paid to historical landscapes. New ideas in city development that were realised during the last century and a half are now in conflict with UNESCO criteria. The most regrettable losses due to this include destruction of compositional unity of central squares' ensemble, demolition of green area near the Old Stock Exchange, and the division of the Peter and Paul Fortress esplanade into several parts, some of which have been occupied by buildings. The problems are analysed and recommendations have been made to improve matters along with measures suggested for the recovery of lost value.