Elbrus Expedition Dispatch
June 21, 2009 – Summer Solstice in St. Petersburg: The Famous White Night
Today is a big day... our walking tour of the heart of St Petersburg got underway from our hotel in the morning.
Tonight is the most famous night of the year, the famous White night - the summer solstice. It is a time of celebration in Saint Petersburg, where the twilight lasts almost all night.
The White Nights (Beliye Nochi) can be explained by the geographical location of St. Petersburg. It is the world's most northern city with a population over 1 million; located at 59 degrees 57' North; due to its latitude the sun does not go under the horizon deep enough for the sky to get dark. The dusk meets the dawn and it can be so bright that in summer they do not turn street lighting on.
As always, Lina, BAI's St. Petersburg guide will introduce the group to her city
Stephen Boles and Steve Rossi have been in Russia for 5 days, visiting both Moscow and St. Pete ahead of the group. They decided to relax today at the hotel after great days so far in Russia.
They introduced us to Christina at our hotel - who makes Cappuccinos to keep us going through the busy days here.
Walking with Lina towards the Hermitage Museum and listening to her explaining the city to us
The Hermitage Museum is one of the largest and oldest museums of the world, founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great and open to the public since 1852. Its collections, of which only a small part are on permanent display, comprise nearly 3 million items including the largest collection of paintings in the world. The collections occupy a large complex of six historic buildings; including the Winter Palace, a former residence of Russian emperors.
Jackie and Lina pause to take their photo together on the tour today
Dave interviews Lina about her fascinating career in academics, and tourism... Wilson sits in
Steve Whittington enjoying life in St. Petersburg
for the most famous night of the year
Lina and David
Amazing... After 48 hours nonstop in St.Pete for Carol and 24 for Terri they still had energy for shopping after the Hermitage tonight.