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Have you ever been to Kronstadt? This small town is located just 30 km from Saint Petersburg, and its fame has resonated since its foundation up to the present day. For over 300 years, Kronstadt has been known to people far and wide. Peter the Great founded this town—a fortress and port—in 1704 to protect Saint Petersburg from enemies approaching from the Baltic Sea during the Great Northern War. Even today, this small town continues to attract worldwide attention.

Kronstadt managed to become the birthplace of the Russian Navy and radio in a relatively short period of time. Over 300 scientific discoveries and inventions have been made in Kronstadt. Many historical milestones took place here for the first time in Russia: the first dry dock was constructed, the first heart surgery was performed at the naval hospital, water chlorination was first implemented, and the first submarine trials were conducted—all remarkable achievements in this small yet significant town.

Kronstadt was also the starting point for Russian sailors embarking on round-the-world expeditions and for the fleet setting off on military campaigns.

And what about the famous forts? Over two centuries, fortress and fortification structures were built around Kotlin Island, where Kronstadt is located. These defenses rendered the capital of the Russian Empire unassailable. In its 300-year history, not a single shot was fired from the fortress at the enemy—none managed to approach the town closely enough. The forts successfully held the line, making Kronstadt one of the few towns in the world that has never been conquered.

Today, the town is surrounded by 23 forts, 17 of which stand offshore in the Gulf of Finland. The most famous and captivating ones—Alexander I (Plague Fort), Fort Konstantin, and Fort Milyutin—are open for visitors. You can explore these unique structures on your own or as part of an excursion group.

The island’s strategic position and proximity to Saint Petersburg have shaped the three-century history of Kronstadt and its present-day character. This once strictly naval town, home to a major Navy base, was closed to visitors until 1996. Today, Kronstadt offers much for tourists to explore.

The Anchor Square (Yakorная Ploshchad) is the heart of the town. Here, the bronze figure of the renowned naval commander, Vice-Admiral Stepan Makarov, greets visitors as he stands atop a steep wave. Nearby, the Eternal Flame burns in memory of the victims of the Kronstadt Rebellion of 1921.

The highlight for many visitors and pilgrims is the magnificent Naval Cathedral dedicated to Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker. As the third-largest cathedral in Russia, it celebrated its centenary in 2013 with a full restoration and re-consecration. Known for its stunning architecture, deep spiritual significance, and turbulent history, the Naval Cathedral is a must-see for all who visit Kronstadt.

Within easy reach of the cathedral is the History of Kronstadt Museum (Yakorная Ploshchad, 2a). Here, you can immerse yourself in the heroic history of the town, spanning from Peter the Great’s era to the present day. The museum’s researchers will guide you through the creation of Kronstadt’s legendary fortress and surrounding forts, showcasing how this Baltic stronghold became an invincible citadel. They will also introduce you to the many individuals who brought glory not only to Kronstadt but to all of Russia.

A separate exhibition, Underwater Archaeology, is part of the History of Kronstadt Museum (Leningradskaya Street, 2). Located about a kilometer from Anchor Square on the eastern side of the island, it is housed in a historic water tower built in 1836. This unique exhibit displays shipwrecks, marine artifacts, and everyday items recovered from the depths of the Baltic Sea. The museum conducts meticulous research into shipwrecks and carefully preserves historical artifacts, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the maritime heritage of the region.

Take the opportunity to visit the Memorial Flat-Museum of Saint John of Kronstadt (Posadskaya Street, 21). Father John served for 53 years at Saint Andrew’s Cathedral (which no longer exists) and is remembered with love and reverence around the world. Thousands of pilgrims visit Kronstadt every year to pay homage to this holy figure and explore these sacred sites.

Kronstadt itself is a living monument—history can be found at every step. The town boasts numerous unique architectural landmarks, over 300 monuments and memorial plaques, battleships in its harbors, and stunning parks. These attractions draw visitors from around the globe, making Kronstadt a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Today, Kronstadt is a rapidly developing tourist center, offering a variety of attractions. The town boasts around two dozen cafes catering to every taste, convenient transport links, picturesque architectural ensembles, and scenic piers that are sure to become highlights of your photo collection. The compact layout of Kronstadt makes it easy to explore in just a couple of hours, and its straight, regularly planned streets ensure you won’t get lost.

In addition to its historical landmarks, Kronstadt also features contemporary attractions. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the playful installations of the Kronfest Ecological Art Festival, displayed in the museum park (Leningradskaya Street, 2). These entertaining sculptures, crafted from recycled materials, are both creative and thought-provoking, leaving no visitor indifferent.

When planning your trip to Kronstadt, we recommend visiting the website of the History of Kronstadt Museum, where you can find all the information you need to prepare for an independent visit to the island. You can also book a guided tour of the town at the Information and Cultural Centre.

Welcome to Kronstadt!

www.visitkronshtadt.ru

Information Cultural Centre of the History Kronshtadt Museum

Kronshtadt, Martynova str. 1/33

Tel/fax: +7 812 311 91 34

E-mail: krontic@yandex.ru

Opening hours:

Daily: 09:00 — 18:00

Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 — 17:00