Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) is the second-largest city in Russia, situated on the Neva River. It is a historical and cultural capital of Russia with 300 museums, 70 theaters, 300 bars and, 600 bridges. The 18th and 19th-century architectural ensemble of the city and its environs is preserved in virtually unchanged form. It has stunning architectural monuments, cultural and educational institutions. Every year more than 20 international art festivals and 80 musical and theatrical festivals are held in Saint Petersburg. Despite the economic instability of the 1990s, not a single major theatre or museum was closed in the city. Ballet performances occupy a special place in the cultural life of the city. The St. Petersburg Metro consists of 5 lines and 67 stations, most of which are 20–80 meters deep.
The very first name of the city was Saint Petersburg, then after World War I, it was changed to Petrograd. After Revolution it became Leningrad and after the collapse of the Soviet Union the city authorities conducted a referendum name reverted to Saint Petersburg upon the name of the city and it got back its previous name.
Here below are some amazing nostalgic old photos of Saint Petersburg from the mid-1970s when it’s Leningrad. These photographs show streets and everyday life.
Also, check some more interesting photos of St Petersburg from the 1960s and 1970s.
I love St. Pete. It didn’t look much different in the 90s when I was there a lot.