Peter Gate became the first triumphal arch in St. Petersburg and remained the only triumphal gate preserved from the time of Peter I. In 1708, Domenico Trezzini designed it in the Petrovskaya curtain wall of the fortress. The Italian architect created a classic example of ceremonial gates, in the lower tier of which there was an arched passage into the fortress, while the upper tier played a purely decorative role.
Peter Gate was decorated with many statues and bas-reliefs. It became a symbolic reflection of the deeds of Peter I and the spirit of that time. For example, the carved panel in the center of the high semicircular pediment depicts the scene "The Casting Down of Simon Magus by the Apostle Peter." In this сюжет, the defeated sorcerer hints at Charles XII, while the Apostle Peter, the tsar's patron saint, symbolizes Peter I himself.
On either side of the passage are two statues of Athena: Athena Pallas in armor, a symbol of power and victory, and Athena Polias (City Ruler) with a mirror and a snake, personifying the peaceful life of the city.
Above the arch soars a two-headed eagle made of lead with gilded details. The Peter Gate of the Peter and Paul Fortress was also decorated with other statues: the Apostle Peter with the keys to Paradise, Faith and Hope, Mars, and Poseidon. But during the days of the Siege of Leningrad, the gate was damaged by bombardments and fires, and not all decorative details were restored during the restoration.
