Петропа́вловская кре́пость

Gilded angel atop the Peter and Paul Cathedral's cupola

Another beautiful morning in St. Petersburg saw us walking across the bridge spanning the Река Нева (River Neva) to walk the grounds of the Петропа́вловская кре́пость (Peter and Paul Fortress) before hopping on an early afternoon train to head back to Moscow.

The Hermitage State Museum as seen from the bridge over the Река Нева

The river has not yet broken up but it is almost there.

Column outside of the St. Petersburg Stock Exchange

St. Petersburg Stock Exchange

The view from the lookout on the bridge.

Tourist captures tourist capturing Peter and Paul Fortress

This replica boat houses a restaurant and a gym.  Odd.

The view across the Нева

The view across the Нева -these gentlemen were walking out to enjoy an unobstructed view.

The people in the corner (look closely now) are nuns sunbathing wearing only a bandeau across their chests, bikini bottoms and their wimples.  They were completely sheltered from the wind and were basking in the sunlight.  I love this country.

Peter and Paul Cathedral facade

Outbuildings of the Peter and Paul Cathedral

View across the parade square in the Peter and Paul Fortress

Outside the fortress wall

Fortress complex buildings

Poseidon's trident

In the distance you can see the evidence of the St. Petersburg shipping industry.

Walking back across the bridge

The Hermitage State Museum side view

What a great way to spend a beautiful Spring morning.