The Narva Triumphal Gates are a majestic architectural monument erected in honor of the heroes of the 1812 war who fought against Napoleon's army. This symbol of St. Petersburg possesses significant artistic and historical value. The gates, designed in the Empire style, create a striking contrast with the urban noise and reflect the exquisite beauty of this architectural direction. The monument is included in the Unified State Register of Cultural Heritage Sites of Russia and has been admired by residents and guests of the city for nearly two centuries. The gates are located near the metro, allowing anyone to enjoy their monumental appearance.

History of the First Gates

The first Narva Gates appeared in 1814 when news reached St. Petersburg about the Russian troops' invasion of Paris. The Senate proposed to erect triumphal gates on the Peterhof road in honor of the returning troops. Architect V. P. Stasov, one of the founders of Russian Empire style, developed the project, but it could not be realized before the army's arrival. Therefore, it was decided to refresh the gates at Kalinkin Bridge with painting and decor. Italian architect D. Quarenghi completed the work in a month. The wooden gates with an arch were adorned with a statue of the goddess Nike and figures of Roman warriors created by sculptor I. I. Terebenev. The gates were named for their location on the way to Narva. Stands for spectators were built on the sides, and a separate gallery for the royal family was constructed. The people welcomed the heroes at the roadside.

Interesting Fact

On the pillars of the gates, a gilded inscription reads: "To the victorious Russian Imperial Guard, the residents of the capital city of St. Peter, on behalf of a grateful homeland."

Construction of the New Monument

The wooden gates quickly deteriorated and became dangerous. Governor-General M. A. Miloradovich, a participant in the Patriotic War, convinced Nicholas I to build new stone gates by the Tarakanovka River. The project was based on Quarenghi's creation, and the architect was again V. Stasov. In 1827, on the anniversary of the Battle of Borodino, the laying of the new monument began. Eleven symbolic stones with the names of the royal family and architect Stasov were placed in a cross-shaped pit. Stasov proposed using bricks covered with copper plates, justifying this by their strength and resistance to the climate of St. Petersburg. In 1830, construction resumed, and Quarenghi's gates were demolished. More than 2,500 workers participated in the construction, using over 500,000 bricks. The copper plate covering weighed 90 tons. By September 1833, the gates were completed and delighted the commission.

Interesting Fact

The total cost of the work amounted to 1,110,000 rubles.

The Narva Gates became an embodiment of classicism, combining severity, simplicity, and solemnity. They rise 23 meters high, are 28 meters wide, and the arch reaches 15 meters. The new chariot with six horses and the figure of Nike symbolized victory and peace. The gates are adorned with figures of heroes, winged Slavas, and Genii of Victory. The opening took place on August 17, 1834, on the anniversary of the Battle of Kulm. Petersburgers of all classes and the royal family attended the ceremony. The event was reported in newspapers, and a bronze coin was issued.

Interesting Fact

The legend of the sorcerer living above the arch arose thanks to the painting by P. Filonov dedicated to the Narva Gates.

After the construction was completed, the area around the gates was filled with sand and leveled. The height of the gates was calculated to protect against floods, with the level set according to the water rise in 1824.

The Difficult Fate of the Narva Gates

The monument has survived difficult times. In the early 1900s, the covering was renewed, but this accelerated corrosion. In 1917, the gates were damaged by a fire caused by an accidental arson of the archive. Restoration began in 1924 but was interrupted by the Great Patriotic War. The gates suffered significant damage from shelling but once again welcomed the victors. Post-war restoration lasted from 1949 to 1951. Damages were repaired, steps were renewed, and the paint and sculptures were restored. Restoration work was carried out in 1978-1980 and 2002-2003. The last restoration returned the gates to their original bright green color.

Museum-Monument

The Narva Triumphal Gates are not only a symbol of victory but also a museum opened in 1987. Here, attributes of the Patriotic War of 1812 are presented. The internal space of the building was originally intended for a museum but was used as a barracks and archive. The entrance to the Museum of Military Glory is located under the arch. The museum hosts exhibitions and tours on military themes, including events for children. The main focus is the history of St. Petersburg during the Patriotic, Civil, and World War II. Tourists can see paintings, photographs, and sculptures.