The first events of the SPIEF 2026 Petersburg Seasons Cultural Festival have become known

One of the first events included in the SPIEF Petersburg Seasons Cultural Festival was the Cultural Bridge tour, an exclusive trip to Staraya Ladoga, the first capital of Russia.

Staraya Ladoga, founded in 753, was an important trading center on the way "from the Varangians to the Greeks" and the first capital of Russia in 862 at the calling of Rurik. Participants will be able to explore unique monuments: the 12th-century Old Ladoga Fortress with 3-meter walls, the Vorotnaya, Klimentovskaya and Arrow Towers, as well as the Church of St. George the Victorious with frescoes from the pre–Mongol period - one of the best examples of ancient Russian art.

The program pays special attention to spiritual shrines: the Nikolsky Monastery, founded by Alexander Nevsky in 1240 after the Battle of Nevsky, where the relics of saints are kept, and the Assumption Convent of the 12th century, associated with the history of Evdokia Lopukhina. Participants will visit the holy spring of Paraskeva Friday, the burial mound of Prophetic Oleg, according to legend, the place of his burial, and Varyazhskaya Street– the oldest street in Russia. The museum exhibits include more than 3,500 exhibits from the Neolithic to the 17th century, archaeological finds and military and political history.

"An excursion to Staraya Ladoga is an opportunity to see the unique objects that shaped the history of Russia for more than 1270 years. This is not just a tour, but an immersion into the mysticism and traditions of the ancient capital, complementing the business program of the forum. The joint organization of such an event highlights the value of historical heritage. Staraya Ladoga is a symbol of the unity of cultural roots and modern dialogue," said Alexander Drozdenko, Governor of the Leningrad Region.

The Petersburg Seasons Festival traditionally brings together more than 30 cultural events, including excursions, exhibitions, theatrical performances and concerts aimed at promoting Russian cultural heritage among an international audience.

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum will be held on June 3-6, 2026.