The Church on the Spilled Blood (Church of the Resurrection) - a historical monument and a work of art. The spot where the tragic attempt upon the life if Emperor Alexander II was committed has been incorporated. The site of his murder is marked by a special chapel in the western part of the building beneath the bell. The inside of the church gas no paintings but is covered in mosaics. Incredible!!!

The State Hermitage (Winter Palace) - home of the Russian Emperors from 1763 to 1917. Erected overlooking the Neva River , construction of which was ordered by Catherine II to house her rapidly growing collection if art works. Other than that I am at a loss for words to describe the beauty therein.

The Saints Peter & Paul Cathedral - situated inside the Peter and Paul Fortress. The shape of the Cathedral is very reminiscent of a 18th century ship. Known as the Guardian of the city stands some 122.5 meters high. This fortress is also home to the Mint(small coins and medals). This cathedral is also the imperial Burial vault - from Peter the Great to Nicholas II.

St Petersburg, once the former capital of the Russian Empire, founded 1703. Peter I, turned his back on the traditions of "ancient" Russian and called upon the new generation which welcomed his ambitious plans. This became a symbol of a new era if Russian history and grandiose, unprecedented ventures. To cut a long story short it has also been known as Petrograd & Leningrad. Beautiful city - Venice of the North.

Finally arrived in Pskov, after a fun, but strange overnight train trip. Had a quick breakfast and then set off for the Pskov Kremlin(picture shows the Cathedral) and then on to Pechory Monastery. Apparently once you enter the monastery in Russia you are not allowed to shave or cut your hair.