*Street Lighting of St. Petersburg: A Historical Overview from Its Foundations to 1914* by G.L. Semenovich is a unique and captivating exploration into the history of one of the world's most beautiful and mysterious cities—Saint Petersburg. This book is not only informative but also engaging, appealing to both historians and casual readers interested in architecture, culture, and urban development. Renowned for his in-depth research on city infrastructure and architecture, Semenovich offers readers a distinctive perspective on the evolution of street lighting in St. Petersburg. From the earliest torches and oil lamps illuminating the streets in the 18th century to the modern electric lamps of the early 20th century, he guides us through centuries of change, illustrating how lighting became an integral part of the city’s life and culture. Filled with intriguing facts and detailed insights, the book reveals information that even seasoned city history enthusiasts might not know. But it goes beyond technical descriptions—Semenovich explores the social and cultural significance of street lighting, showing how it affected residents’ safety, daily life, and their perception of the city. He examines how shifts in illumination reflected broader social and economic transformations happening across Russia, highlighting how street lighting fostered trade, encouraged nighttime strolls, and even influenced the art and literature of the era. This work will appeal to a wide audience: students and professors of history, architecture enthusiasts, tourists eager to deepen their understanding of the city’s atmosphere, and anyone fascinated by the story of Saint Petersburg. The book is enriched with rare illustrations and archival photographs that help visualize the historical scenes described, adding an extra layer of interest. Semenovich’s meticulous style and thorough analysis make his works especially valuable. He not only presents facts but also creates vivid images that allow readers to feel the spirit of the times. Similar themes appear in his other notable works, such as *Architecture of St. Petersburg: From Its Foundation to Today* and *The History of Urban Infrastructure in Russia*, but this book’s focus on street lighting offers a unique contribution to the study of the city’s history. *Street Lighting of St. Petersburg* is more than just a book about lamps and lanterns. It’s a fascinating journey into the past, showing how small details like lighting can profoundly influence the life of an entire city. This book deserves attention not only for its rich content but also for the love and respect for history that permeate its pages. If you’re looking to better understand Saint Petersburg, its culture, and its history—or simply want to enjoy a well-written historical narrative—this book is an excellent choice. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover new facets of this incredible city through the lens of its street lighting!