Russian writers and poets in the middle of the 18th century began to call Petersburg the Northern Palmyra.
In terms of architecture and numerous water channels, this city is more like Venice. Then why is the name Northern Palmyra firmly rooted to this day? At first glance, nothing to do with the ancient Syrian city.
But if you look into the depths of the centuries, it becomes clear why St. Petersburg has every reason to be called the Northern Palmyra.
St. Petersburg is the northern capital of Russia. To understand why it is called Northern Palmyra and to see the similarities with the ancient city, let us turn to the facts.
From the history of Palmyra
In an oasis, on the site of the modern Syrian desert, among the evergreen date palms, a city of unprecedented beauty has emerged. Hence the name of the city of Palmyra. As the legend says, it was built by King Solomon.
Soon the city became a place of brisk trade. The Greeks began to visit often. Their culture has become an integral part of the way of life of the local population.
The city became famous for its splendor. The main street was wide and long. Columns and arches towered on its sides. The architectural monuments were striking in their beauty.
Due to the constant struggle with the Romans, the city had to be well fortified from all sides. But this did not prevent him from being constantly beautiful and blooming. The Syrian city was especially prettier during the time of the brightest and most belligerent ruler Zenobia.
All her undertakings were reasonable. As a woman commander, she was adamant in her orders, demanding in relation to the soldiers, generous, but not wasteful, harsh when severity was needed.
Zenobia gradually began to seize the nearby lands of Egypt and Asia Minor. The Palmyra State was formed around the city. Her most ardent desire was to conquer and subjugate great Rome. But this was not destined to happen. The Romans defeated Zenobia's army. In one night they destroyed Palmyra, and took the rebellious ruler prisoner.
Travel to St. Petersburg
Now let's return to St. Petersburg and see the common features. What brings these two cities closer together?
• Architecture
• Unsuccessful terrain, but a good location of cities
• Rulers in their heyday
Palmyra and Petersburg turned into capitals with beautiful architecture: straight avenues, proud arches and majestic columns.
But the beginning of construction was very difficult. Palmyra was erected in an oasis of the Syrian desert, and St. Petersburg - in desert swamps. When building cities, the desert and swamps are not the best choice, far from ideal. However, the favorable location at the intersection of major trade routes contributed to the prosperity and rapid growth of these cities.
And one more significant similarity. Palmyra reached its peak during the reign of Queen Zenobia. Petersburg appeared in all its glory and dazzling splendor under Catherine II. It is not surprising that in the era of the Enlightenment, the empress found commonalities with the ruler of Palmyra. Catherine liked this comparison.
This is what brings the northern capital of Russia closer and closer to the distant Syrian ancient city. That is why the name Northern Palmira has stuck to St. Petersburg.
