The Great Gostiny Dvor, one of the most famous symbols of St. Petersburg, today represents a bustling shopping center that combines numerous stores and public space. It is a place where the past and present intertwine, creating a unique atmosphere. Here, it is almost impossible to leave without making a purchase, and walking under the arched vaults allows one to enjoy the classical architecture.

The history of trade at this location began almost simultaneously with the founding of the new capital. Until 1720, a birch forest grew here, which was soon cut down for the construction of the Customs House near the Green Bridge. Here, tolls were collected for passing along the paid road, which gave this place its name. However, the wooden building burned down in 1738, and it was decided to build a new market closer to the city border, at the site of the current historical center.

By 1740, wooden stalls appeared along the main street of the city, and in 1748, Empress Elizabeth Petrovna ordered the construction of a stone market in their place. The first project was proposed by Antonio Rinaldi, but it was not realized due to funding disputes. In 1757, Bartolomeo Rastrelli proposed a new project, but construction was postponed again. Ultimately, Jean-Baptiste Vallin de la Mothe completed the project, and construction lasted nearly two decades, finishing in 1785.

The building of Gostiny Dvor turned out to be impressive. Its length along Nevsky Prospect was 230 meters, and the total perimeter was 1 km. The trading areas occupy 13,000 sq.m, while the total area is 78,000 sq.m. The building occupied an entire block, and inside it housed warehouses and office spaces.

At Gostiny Dvor, various goods were traded, including manufactured goods, books, and jewelry. Here, the first copies of Radishchev's book "Journey from Petersburg to Moscow" were sold. Among the shop owners were well-known publishers and bibliographers. Gostiny Dvor became a meeting place for the St. Petersburg elite, where one could hear the latest news and make useful acquaintances.

The revolution changed the life of Gostiny Dvor. Trade ceased, shops were looted, and their contents were confiscated. The building was proposed for demolition, but then the war began. During the Siege of Leningrad, the building was damaged by bombings, but even then, trade continued.

After the war, the building was restored, and in 1948 it was granted the status of an architectural monument. In 1967, a vestibule of the metro station of the same name opened in the building. Today, Gostiny Dvor has become not only a shopping center but also a public space. Relaxation areas, food markets, and event venues have opened here. Inside the building, the "Gallery of High Fashion" operates, where shows and creative events take place.

On the second floor of the department store, one can visit a wax figure exhibition featuring famous personalities and characters from books and films. The exhibition was created by the St. Petersburg art collective "Alex" and is accessible by ticket. Nearby, cultural sites and theaters often host street performances and live music.