St Petersburg was commanded into existence by Peter the Great, and its inherent artifice has made it one of the world's most storied cities.

This award-winning narrative history chronicles what is perhaps the greatest story of any modern city anywhere, from its foundation in a swampy war zone in 1703 to its role in overthrowing Soviet power.

Covering Petersburg's political, social, economic, architectural, cultural and intellectual history, recounting events of world importance, and the often tragic lives of the city's many great citizens. This book focuses on the city's key role as a link to the West and in modernizing Russia and encouraging the growth of civil society.