Lakhta, Saint Petersburg

In the early 18th century, Peter the Great had a residence in the area called Blizhniye Dubki.

[1] According to tradition, in November 1724 Peter was in a ship in the Gulf of Finland near Lakhta to inspect some ironworks.

He saw a group of soldiers drowning not far from shore, and, wading out into near-waist deep water, came to their rescue.

This icy water rescue is said to have exacerbated Peter's bladder problems and caused his death on January 28, 1725.

Lakhta Center includes the first supertall skyscraper in the city, a scientific and educational complex, sports and leisure facilities and an outdoor amphitheater.