27 April
History and Grandeur: The Ciniselli Circus of St. Petersburg Invites You to a World of Art
The Great St. Petersburg State Circus, also known as the Ciniselli Circus or the Circus on the Fontanka, is one of the oldest and most significant circuses in Russia. Located at 3A Fontanka Embankment, it represents not only the cultural heritage of St. Petersburg but also a significant milestone in the history of circus arts.
Opened on December 26, 1877, the circus was designed by architect V.A. Kenel. The founder and first owner was Gaetano Ciniselli, who acquired the wooden circus from Karl Ginne in 1872. Emperor Alexander II leased the land to Ciniselli with the condition that he would improve part of the Engineers' Square.
The building's architecture is distinguished by innovative solutions for its time. The record-breaking dome (49.7 meters) was erected without supporting columns, creating a unique spatial effect. This design became the prototype for many subsequent buildings.
The auditorium initially accommodated up to 5,000 people and was luxuriously decorated. Despite this, shortly after its opening, the building required restoration due to problems with leaks and a stuffy atmosphere.
The Circus was awarded the Order of the Red Banner of Labor (1939) and the Order of Friendship of Peoples (1977), recognizing its contribution to the development of Soviet circus art.
If you want to become part of this historical atmosphere and enjoy exciting performances, you can buy tickets on our website. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this unique place - buy tickets on our website and immerse yourself in a world of magic and art!
More news
22 April
Immerse yourself in magic: the premiere of the "Royal Circus" show in St. Petersburg
Don't miss the spectacular "Royal Circus" show by Gia Eradze at the Great St. Petersburg State Circus on Fontanka! Unique tricks, impressive special effects, and a captivating atmosphere await you.
24 February
The Royal Circus in St. Petersburg: immerse yourself in a world of fantasy and adventure
The Great St. Petersburg State Circus invites you to the show "Royal Circus" under the direction of Gia Eradze. Acrobats, illusionists, and unique acts featuring predators await you. Don't miss this magical performance!
31 January
Immerse yourself in a world of grandeur: the "Royal Circus" show in St. Petersburg
The Great St. Petersburg State Circus presents the "Royal Circus" show, directed by Gia Eradze. Expect incredible stunts, unique productions, and thrilling animal acts. Don't miss this spectacular event!
23 December 2025
New Year's show "Snow Dreams" in St. Petersburg: the magic of winter at the Bolshoi Circus
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a winter fairytale at the "Snow Dreams" show at the Bolshoi St. Petersburg State Circus. Acrobats, illusionists, and fantastical characters await you at Fontanka 3A. Don't miss the chance to enjoy an unforgettable per
2 December 2025
New Year's show "The Tale of the Goldfish" at the Great Moscow Circus at the Arena ESC
Immerse yourself in the magic of the New Year's show "The Tale of the Goldfish" at the Arena ESC. This unique production featuring acrobats and animals promises an unforgettable experience. Learn more about the event and plan your visit!
27 November 2025
The Circus on Fontanka invites you to the magical show "Snow Dreams"
From December 19, 2025, to January 11, 2026, the Great St. Petersburg State Circus on Fontanka will host a New Year's show called "Snow Dreams." Immerse yourself in a world of enchanting dreams and fantasies; don't miss this magical performance!
23 November 2025
Nikulin's Moscow Circus at Lakhta Hall: New Year's fairy tale "Two from the Casket" in St. Petersburg
Immerse yourself in the world of Russian fairy tales with the Nikulin Moscow Circus at Lakhta Hall! The New Year's show "Two from the Casket" will provide an unforgettable experience. Acrobats, clowns, and a magical atmosphere await you.
22 October 2025
"Cats Save the World" in St. Petersburg: An Interactive Show for the Whole Family
The Lensovet Community Center is hosting the performance "Cats Save the World." Immerse yourself in an interactive show with unique tricks and become part of a team of heroes saving the planet from chaos.
15 September 2025
Theatrical adventure at the Lensovet Community Center: "Cats Save the World" awaits you!
A unique performance "Cats Save the World" awaits you at the Lensovet Community Center. Immerse yourself in the struggle between good and evil with trained cats and become part of the mission to save the planet. Book the best seats in advance!
5 September 2025
New Year's magic at the Circus on Fontanka: an unforgettable show in St. Petersburg
Discover the magic of the New Year's performance at the Bolshoi St. Petersburg Circus. A fascinating program with acrobats and clowns, a historic building and a festive atmosphere await you. Book the best seats in advance!
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