Twelve Collegia

The Twelve Collegia is a historic complex in St. Petersburg, notable for being the largest surviving structure from the Petrine era. Designed by architects Domenico Trezzini and Theodor Schwertfeger, it was built between 1722 and 1744. This impressive red-brick edifice consists of 12 interconnected buildings, creating the illusion of a single vast structure. Commissioned by Peter the Great, it originally housed the government divided into 12 branches, including the Senate and various colleges. Today, it serves as the headquarters of Saint Petersburg State University, making it a significant site for both tourists and researchers interested in Russian history and architecture.