These two 32m-high red granite columns were originally used to guide ships coming into port. Built to the glory of the Empire, the Rostral Columns are decorated in the Roman tradition with "rostra" (ships' prows), symbols of naval victories. The sculpted figures on the pedestals symbolise four of Russia's great rivers: the Neva, the Volga, the Volkhov and the Dnieper. Now familiar landmarks, they are illuminated for major national holidays.