Genius loci under the plaster

The article highlights the significant role of architecture in shaping ideas about "the spirit of St. Petersburg". It is noted that a considerable share of information, especially on the early stages of development of the city was inaccessible to ordinary citizens and ordinary tourists, the old walls now hidden by a layer of plaster. This was one of the consequences of reconstruction, during which the facades were stylistically updated as well. This is in contrast to examples from European cities, where many monuments of architecture are a connection of disparate parts, built at different times from different materials and unrelated stylistically; such buildings are not surprising and attempts to integrate them in a unified faade are not made. It is suggested that the origins of this perception of architecture date back to the early middle ages, a time period dominated by purely utilitarian exploration of ancient Roman heritage, which was reflected in the repeated use of architectural details such as building products, excluding artistic significance. Each part of the building was seen as valuable-especially in a material way. It is noted that in our days there is a tendency to extend the demonstration of historical heritage, to draw attention to the ordinary buildings. The facades of urban buildings are increasingly cleared away, to show the remains of ancient frescoes, reliefs, constructions or figured brickwork. The number of information stands is being increased, and the forms of presenting information are being modernized. These trends are observed in practice in St. Petersburg. The article contains recommendations for further use of international experience, provides a list of specific activities for identifying and screening of currently hidden documentary evidence about the historical development of Central areas. Their implementation will allow for a wider "window into the past" and for enrichment of ordinary citizens' and tourists' idea of the "spirit of St. Petersburg", especially the information about the early stages of development of the city. Refs 14. Figs 19.