An integral part of Russia’s rich history, the Anichkov Bridge is the oldest and arguably the most famous bridge in Saint Petersburg. Spanning across the Fontanka River, this stunning bridge was first built in the 17th century. Having undergone restorations thrice in the course of its history, the current bridge is testament to the rebuilding of the bridge in the 18th century (nothing remains of the original 17th century bridge today), and holds one of the city’s most notable landmarks: the Horse Tamers of the Anichov.

These horse sculptures are four marvellous, massive statues created by famed Russian sculptor Peter Clodt von Jürgensburg, commissioned by Tsar Nicholas I. Signifying the unyielding struggle of men against the elements, these majestic lifelike sculptures of men taming horses have since become one of Saint Petersburg’s iconic symbols. During World War II, the Anichkov Bridge suffered heavy artillery fire and as a result, these sculptures were taken down and buried. While the sculptures were restored and returned to their rightful place on the bridge shortly after the war, one of the statues’ pedestal still bears the effect of the artillery fire that struck the bridge, thereby serving as a memorial to yet another part of Russian history. The picturesque Anichkov Bridge is quintessentially a symbol of Russia steeped into the nation’s rich history, and definitely should not be missed.