In his desire to turn Russia into a military power with a fleet worthy of its name, Peter the Great quite naturally decided to build a shipyard in his capital. In the 19C the Admiralty Quarter lost its military function (except for the Admiralty Building, distinguished by its high steeple), boulevards were laid out in place of the ramparts, and splendid palaces were built on the quayside. Nowadays it is a chic area full of restaurants and luxury shops - and a fun place to stroll around.