A rustic house in Sablino, south from Saint Petersburg. Russia, June 24, 2003
Marble Bridge (also known as the Palladian Bridge or Siberian Marble Gallery) in Catherine Park. Built in 1772-1774 by the architect Vasily Neelov, it is modeled after the famous Palladian Bridge at Wilton House in England (designed by Inigo Jones and Roger Morris). The bridge is constructed entirely from Ural marble (hence "Siberian"). It features a covered Ionic colonnade resting on a rusticated arch base. It spans a narrow channel connecting the Great Pond with the smaller neighboring ponds (Swan Islands). Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025
Vana Turg (Old Market) square, dominated by the Peppersack restaurant building. The central white building with the high gable and hoist beam is Peppersack (Viru 2 / Vana turg 6). Dating back to 1370, this historic structure was originally a merchant s house and granary. The name "Peppersack" refers to a nickname given to wealthy merchants (who traded in expensive spices like pepper) or possibly a specific owner, Hans Peppersack. Today, it is a popular medieval-themed restaurant known for its sword-fighting shows and hearty Estonian cuisine. To the right of Peppersack is the Art Nouveau building housing Scheeli Restaurant (Vana turg 2). Known for its elegant interior and romantic atmosphere, it offers a contrast to the rustic medieval style of its neighbor, serving refined European cuisine in a setting that recalls the 1920s. The square features a stunning ensemble of Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. The Peppersack building retains its medieval pulley system (visible on the facade), which was used to hoist goods into the storage floors. The red sack hanging from the facade is a playful nod to the building s name. This spot is a major intersection in the Old Town, where Viru Street meets the Old Market, just steps away from the Town Hall Square. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025