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| SUNDAY • 12 AUGUST 2018 maltatoday 14 TRAVEL A major historical and cultural cen- tre, St Petersburg is the second largest city in Russia. It's quite easy to spend a whole week in Russia's former capital… and it's safe to say it's a must-visit. If you don't know where to start, we've got you covered. Raising bridges St Petersburg is possibly one of the only cities in the world that finds itself split in two every night from April un- til late November. 13 of the over 300 bridges are raised for four hours during the night, allow- ing the passage of sea vessels along the Neva river. At that time, there is no way for driv- ers and pedestrians to cross the river. It can be a headache for some citizens, but is also an event that brings out the party spirit in locals and tourists alike. Hermitage Museum This museum is housed in the Win- ter Palace and is home to the largest col- lection of paintings in the world – ap- proximately three million. It boasts one of the largest collections of Western European Art in the world and includes works by Leonardo da Vin- ci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Renoir, Cezanne, Manet, Monet, Van Gogh and Matisse. It is a place you can't rush through so plan to devote at least half a day to take in as much of the art and architecture as possible. New Holland A fortified island dedicated to the pur- suit of fun, art and outdoor activities which opened its doors to the public in the summer of 2016. It features a wooden playground for children in the form of a historic frig- ate called Peter and Paul. Adults can enjoy the exhibitions containing works by contemporary artists, musical perfor- mances, theatrical troupes and movies. In summer, visitors can lie on the grass and enjoy picnics on chairs resembling the ones in the Luxembourg Garden in Paris. There are also food kiosks, food stalls and even a proper sit-down restaurant and night club. Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood This church, one of the main sites of St Petersburg, was built on the site where Emperor Alexander II was wounded and died in March 1881. It is a magnificent church with mul- ti-hued marble floors and numerous mosaics, modelled after 16th and 17th century churches, contrasting sharp- ly with the prevailing architectural styles. Five cupolas of the church, some 1000sq.m in area are covered with jewelled enamel. Two readers have the chance to win a complimentary return ticket each for travel on any scheduled Air Malta flights (excluding taxes and charges). All you have to do is answer the question below and send in your name, mobile number and email address to: Maltatoday competition, Air Malta plc, Sky Parks, Malta International Airport, Luqa, LQA 4000. The closing date is 24 August 2018 Getting there Air Malta operates a twice weekly service to St Petersburg with one way Go-Light prices starting from just €99 including taxes and charges Question: How often does Air Malta fly to St Petersburg this summer? a) One time a week b) Twice a week c) Four times a week Mobile Number Name Email TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY Getting to know St Petersburg