Kronshlot Fort, Kronstadt’s first sea fortification, will be transformed into a modern space featuring a hotel, restaurants, a museum, and a wedding venue, following an agreement between the “Island of Forts” Autonomous Non-Profit Organization and Archeda. The agreement was signed at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025.

The partnership between the state and business aims to preserve this federal monument. While the fort remains state property, the investor will bear the commercial risks and costs associated with creating the tourism infrastructure.

The restoration of Kronshlot, overseen by the Ministry of Culture of Russia, is part of the President’s “Island of Forts” project and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.

Ksenia Shoigu, head of the “Island of Forts” project office, highlighted the extensive work already completed, including archaeological and engineering surveys, design, and meticulous restoration of the fort’s early 20th-century appearance.

Connecting the island fort to the city’s utility networks posed a significant technical challenge that has been resolved.

Approved in 2020 by the Council for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage, plans to transform Kronshlot into a maritime ceremony center have been given the green light.

A unique venue for celebrations and wedding ceremonies will be created, utilizing the picturesque surroundings of the inner harbor and historical buildings as a backdrop.

Visitors can anticipate a boutique hotel, restaurants, cafes, and a museum dedicated to the history of fortification.

Denis Ekomasov, Executive Director of Archeda, envisions a multifunctional space that embodies the spirit of Peter I’s era.

Both partners emphasize the project’s importance and responsibility.

Marika Korotaeva, co-organizer of the “Island of Forts” project, stated the primary goal is to strike a balance between historical significance and modern functionality.

Ekomasov sees Kronshlot as a symbol of Russia’s maritime power, and aims to preserve and revitalize it as a tourist attraction where history and modernity converge.

Shoigu emphasized the project’s economic rationale, stating that the renovated fort should be self-sustaining, relieving the state and taxpayers of maintenance costs.

This investment project will bring Kronshlot Fort back into the country’s economic circulation and unlock its potential.

Built in 1704 during the Northern War to defend against the Swedes, Kronshlot underwent reconstruction in 1716-1724, including the addition of a shoal and a small harbor. Further strengthening occurred in the late 18th and early 19th centuries with granite facing and the construction of a powder cellar. An underwater mine defense was installed during the Crimean War. Having lost its defensive purpose, the fort was removed from protective structures in 1896. During World War II, an anti-aircraft unit was stationed at Kronshlot. In peacetime, it housed a laboratory for demagnetizing warships and ammunition depots.

The island part of the city is developing into a new center for cultural and public life.