When the main embankment of the city on the Neva river was dressed in granite banks, then this bridge was built as a continuation of the crossing over the Fontanka river. It was in the years 1766-1769.
click for full image
It got its name Laundry bridge due to the fact that at that time not far from this place were laundries of the Imperial Palace. At this point, the Fontanka river originates. It flows out of the Neva and makes its winding path through the city. Its length is about 8 kilometers and a width of 70 meters.
click for full image
On the side of the bridge you can see round Windows with bars. It's not decorative. These are debt pits. Previously, debtors were put here for non-payment of taxes, card debtors and other various characters who violated financial obligations. Debtors were day and night in these cells, through which blew a cold wind and during floods they were filled with water. In addition, these rooms had a small height and the prisoners could not stand in full growth. They could sit or lie. They were in these strict conditions until their relatives collected money to repay the debt for them. It was thought that this was very brutal method, but very effective.
click for full image
Now these rooms are empty. This punishment was abolished during the reign of Catherine the Great. Laundry bridge is one of the first stone bridges of our city.
click for full image
Camera SONY DSC-W350
Location: St. Petersburg, Russia. Kutuzov embankment, crosses the Fontanka river
Thank you for Your attention and Your visit. I appreciate Your feedback and comments.
