Russia's second largest city, Saint Petersburg, is marking its 305th anniversary. Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, it was the country's capital until the Bolshevik revolution in 1917.
Celebrations got under way with a two-day carnival. Russian's northern capital will enjoy various open-air concerts and theatrical performances with the main events taking place next weekend. The city expects a rush of tourists, drawn by the so-called white nights, when it’s possible to walk the streets after midnight in almost broad daylight.