The Hermitage It is the largest art museum in Russia and it is based on the personal collections of the Tsars. The museum was founded by the famous Russian Tsarina Catherine the Great, who regarded all objects of art as her personal treasure. Once she wrote down in her diary: "Only I and mice can admire the collection". And it was almost true: only close relatives, personal guests and ambassadors could view the collections at that time. But now all museum collections are rather accessible and I will be glad to show the most precious exhibits in this tremendous Museum. The Hermitage contains about 3 million objects of art representing different ages, countries and people. It is known that if mere half a minute was spent with each exhibit it would take eight years to examine them all (working eight hours a day without weekends and vacations). The museum consists of 5 buildings: Winter Palace, the former residence of the Tsars, the buildings of Small Hermitage, Large Hermitage, New Hermitage, which were intended for accommodating the pieces of art and the Hermitage Theatre. It is quite easy to get lost in this museum. This place is not only unique because of the numerous pieces of art it contains, it is also interesting to see because it was a real residence of the Russian Tsars which strikes you with all its unbelievable splendor, as the Russian court had an enormous taste for luxury. You will see the Ball Rooms, numerous Reception Rooms, including the famous Malachite Room, the Throne Room, the Golden Room, the Gallery of 1812 You will get acquainted with the priceless collection of Rembrandt, Rubens, Little Dutch Masters as well as paintings by Da Vinci, Rafael, Botticelli and many others. You will see the wonderful collection of French impressionists, which includes such artists as Renoir, Monet, Pissarro, Picasso, Van Gogh and Matisse. Home City Tours The Suburbs Off the Beaten Track Visa Support Links Contact me Feedback