Iconic Sphinxes of St. Petersburg's Egyptian Bridge Undergo Restoration
The iconic sphinx figures adorning the Egyptian Bridge in St. Petersburg have been removed for restoration. Each figure, including its plinth, weighs approximately two tons and is made of cast iron with bronze details gilded. The restoration is necessary due to damage caused by unauthorized festive decorations.
The sphinxes were cast in 1826 at the foundry of Charles Berry in St. Petersburg. They have been restored once before, two years ago. This time, the restoration will be carried out in the same workshop by the contractor who handled the previous work. The damage was caused by decorations installed without consent, which harmed the figures' coating. The restoration is scheduled to be completed by spring 2026, but specific dates are yet to be confirmed.
The sphinxes, weighing about two tons each, are expected to return to their place on the Egyptian Bridge in the spring of 2026 after the restoration is completed. The restoration work is being done in St. Petersburg itself, with the contractor who previously handled the restoration.
