Bankovsky Bridge

This pedestrian bridge across the Griboyedov Canal, which is only 1.85 meters wide, was designed in 1825-1826 by engineer V. Tretter. Famous sculptor Pavel Sokolov crafted the cast-iron figures of fantastic mythological griffins, which gave this bridge recognition. Bankovsky Bridge is one of the six chain suspension bridges constructed in Saint Petersburg at the beginning of the 19th century. The design is very similar to Panteleimonovsky and Egyptian bridges on the Fontanka River, though Bankovsky Bridge is a pedestrian one. Bankovsky Bridge represents some of the highest artistic and architectural qualities of the early 19th century bridge building. The bridge's name comes from the neighboring building, which formerly housed the State Bank (now the Academy of Finance and Economics). In ancient mythology, griffins, or winged lions, were perceived as the guardians of treasure. So these unique sculptures ingeniously and mysteriously seem to guard one's passageway onto the footbridge and the gate of the historic State Bank Building. Griffins' wings and some of decoration details are gilded. These statues now are considered to be one of the most significant symbols of Saint Petersburg. Another important architectural element of Bankovsky Bridge is its molded decorative fencing. Though its design differs very much from the Quarenghi-designed stone fence of the neighboring Finance and Economics Academy, altogether they form a harmonious and interesting artistic ensemble.