Saint Petersburg

St Petersburg is a beautiful city, and I am staying in a hotel that was the palace of Princess Dashkova, a big supporter of Catherine the Great’s successful bid for the throne.  It has come down in tone quite a bit since the princess’s days, no glittering ballrooms and rows of footmen in evidence, but is certainly clean and comfortable, and located very centrally indeed.

Wednesday was our big group opera night, everyone except Geoff went to see Carmen.  It was in the Mariinsky II, the new and somewhat controversial opera house designed by a Canadian, Jack Diamond.  Some people (me included) think he did an amazing job of putting a harmonious modern building into this old and graceful area, while others think it is a travesty to to see such glass and marble among  all the 18th and 19th century grand edifices.

We did the Hermitage yesterday and it was actually a bit overwhelming, as many people had told me would be the case. Apparently, if you walk through every exhibit in every room, you will walk for 24 miles.  Fabulous palace, although I couldn’t help but think of the over-the-top opulence and wealth contrasted with the daily lives of the great masses.

Last night we went on the night boat along the rivers and canals.  Because we are in the northern “white nights”, when the days are very long, it does not get dark until about 11:45 and so our boat tour started at 12:20 AM.   I can tell you we were very tired by the time we got home after that!

Today we took a last big walk around the city, along Nevsky Prospect, and also over to the island to see the Commandant’s House Museum.

Then tonight — a great highlight.  Scored tickets to see Anna Netrebko (opera superstar!) in Macbeth at the old Mariinsky Theatre.  Wow!  What an amazing performance.

And now?  I guess it must be time to go home…..