Answer:
To provide a port and access to Europe.
Step-by-step explanation:
St. Petersburg was founded by Peter the Great during the 17th century. He was interested in having a seaport that was easily accessible from Europe in order to increase trade. Peter captured Nyenskans, which was a Swedish fortress built in this area, and replaced it with the Peter and Paul Fortress, which became the first building in the new city. The capital was moved from Moscow to Saint Petersburg in 1712.