In previous articles, we have already written about the Smolny Cathedral—one of the most beautiful buildings in the city and one of its unofficial symbols. Today, we will talk about the bell tower of the cathedral, which houses the highest observation deck in the city. Its height is 50 meters, and the number of steps leading to the top is 278.
How to Get There
The nearest metro station to the cathedral is "Chernyshevskaya." The walk from there takes about 30 minutes. You can plan your route from the metro to the observation deck through the Tauride Garden, which has exits on all four of its sides.
The entrance fee to the Smolny Cathedral bell tower (as of fall 2018) is 150 rubles. The observation deck is open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Ascent to the Observation Deck
You can start your tour even before climbing the bell tower. Near the cathedral are the Kikiny Chambers, a monument of Petrine Baroque architecture, and the Smolny Institute building, which currently serves as the residence of the Governor of Saint Petersburg. You can also take many great photos against the backdrop of the cathedral or in the adjoining garden.
By the way, the height of the Smolny Cathedral, including its domes, is 93.7 meters, although the original plan was for a 140-meter bell tower.
The ascent to the observation deck is located inside the cathedral. After entering the main hall, turn left, and after paying the fee, follow the signs on the walls. We recommend coming in comfortable shoes and clothing: the climb involves steep stairs, sometimes in rather narrow areas. The environment will change constantly as you ascend. The first part of the climb is on a well-maintained staircase, but the path soon leads through various passages and staircases of different shapes and purposes.
Currently, only one part of the observation deck is open, on the southwestern bell tower. The other three are closed due to ongoing restoration work.
The observation deck offers a stunning view of the central, southern, and eastern parts of the city. Speakers on the deck play an audio guide, helping you easily navigate the locations of the main attractions.
From here, you can see an abandoned construction site where the Okhta Center was supposed to be built, the Bolsheokhtinsky Bridge, the Smolny Institute building, the Leningrad Region Government building, and a panorama of the historic city center with Saint Petersburg's most famous buildings—Saint Isaac's Cathedral and the Peter and Paul Cathedral. In the northwestern part of the city, you can spot two of Saint Petersburg's new landmarks: the largest building in Europe, the Lakhta Center, and the Saint Petersburg Stadium. Closer to the city center in the same direction, you can see the buildings of the former Kresty prison.
A rotating binocular is installed on the observation deck, allowing you to examine all the structures of interest in detail.
In summary:
- This is one of the best observation decks in the city,
- Be prepared to climb to the height of a 15-story building without elevators,
- You have the opportunity to see several landmarks at once.
