St Petersburg Russia: Traces of the Romanovs

Russia’s political history in the last century has been filled with much turmoil and upheaval. The revolution and execution of the Tsar, the fall of communism and the new regime are all only recent memories for many Russians. It’s a touchy subject that you will find few willing to talk about.

There are many traces left of the luxurious lifestyle of Russia’s royal family. The Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg stands as elegant and pristine as it did 100 years ago. Inside the massive collection of art collected by Catherine the Great still hangs, unaffected by 70 years of communism. Many historians believe this palace was left to show evidence of the opulence of the upper class for future generations to witness. The majority of royal residences in St. Petersburg have been destroyed.

flickr image by jimg944

You can drive past many an opulent and stately home to be told that you have just seen the house of the stable master, or the house of the royal cook. Those in the circle of the Tsar lived a fine life indeed.

For many years, what had become of the Tsar and his family was a mystery although they were assumed murdered. While held captive for as long as a year, they were eventually shot and buried in a secret location. Twice, the bodies were moved. In 1998 an official funeral and burial was held.

flickr image by jimg944

Historical debate has been fierce as to the actual identity of the bodies, it still continues today. In the Peter and Paul cathedral you can visit the tombs of the Romanovs. Tsar Nicholas II is now considered a Saint by the Russian Orthodox Church. It’s often crowded and flash photography is not allowed, but a visit to this beautiful church is recommended.