The first circus in Russia appeared under Peter the First. Wooden circus arenas were built and artists from the whole Europe were invited to Saint-Petersburg. They acted that way until genius Italian circus actor Ciniselli Gaetano came to the capital. Leonid Taranov visited performance and backstage of the Russian oldest circus. Ciniselli has gained wide popularity and become leader of the troupe. Shortly after he managed to receive the Emperor's permission to construct the first Russian stationary stone-built arena. For a long time it has been the world standard other circus used to take their cue from. The building itself which still stands in Saint-Petersburg downtown is unique. There are no columns holding up its big top. These are lightness and airiness the creators sought after. Circus Ciniselli is still one of the best in Russia. Even the constellation was named after it.