This fascinating city of Peter the Great holds a wealth of history and beauty. Relatively new by European standards, the city celebrated its 300th anniversary in 2003. Founded in 1703, within ten years St Petersburg had become capital of the vast Russian Empire, and quickly gained a reputation as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Peter the Great, Russia’s best known ruler, had a passion for Europe and for the sea. Before he founded St Petersburg he had travelled incognito to Europe, and worked in her shipyards. Architects were invited from all over Europe to execute Peter’s plans and the city was to become Russia’s window onto Europe.