The elves here are mostly men in their prime, with guitars at the ready. A distinctive feature is quite long hair and a passion for music, more often called Russian rock.

However, those who created the reputation of this place do not come here anymore: Saigon Cafe no longer exists, as well as its branch called “Elf” (hence the name of the square). Mostly old and new party-goers walk here, diluted with rare musicians from among the “not making their way”.

The truth is that the underground could develop only in the context of a struggle with power, more symbolic than real, but nevertheless heroic in its own way. When the authorities faced more pressing problems than the struggle with rock and roll, Russian rock gradually lost its pathos and quietly died.

But when rumors broke about the possible construction of the historic park, the figures of the Petrograd counterculture began to fight for their place of power: several clean-up days were held here, flowers were planted, and the first Saturday of September was considered Saigon Day.

Address: st. Stremyannaya 9