The fire broke out in Russia’s second largest city, as the masses of firefighters were assisted by cadets.
Smoke has left a blanket over the Vasilyevsky Island district as the flames engulf the mid-18th century building which belongs to St. Petersburg’s oldest educational establishment.
The fire is classed at level three, just two notches shy of the most difficult rating.
Additional firefighting crews have been called in as a result.
No injuries have been reported so far.
Local media has reported that there is a high risk of neighbouring buildings catching fire because of its wooden structure.
More to follow…