There are art museums, and then there is the State Hermitage Museum. Stunning would be an understatement when it comes to describing the prestigious Hermitage Museum. Standing in St. Petersburg’s, this Royal Design is the second-largest museum in the world. With over 3 million different collections, it ticks all boxes of an art lover.

Origins

Similar to other great galleries, this mammoth art institution we know of today had relatively humble beginnings. Its roots can be traced to 1764 when Catherine the Great established it as a court gallery. It primarily served as a private art gallery during its early formation. It wasn’t until 1852 that this exhibition center was transformed into a public property during the reign of Nicholas I.

Hermitage in This Age

Since the end of World War II, this art center has grown astronomically to colossal status. It now features six intertwined buildings, including the Winter Palace.

Key Attractions

With millions of art collections housed in over 120 rooms, the average visitor can spend weeks appreciating this museum. From modernist art to ancient works, every type of craftmanship seems to be present in the Hermitage. Here are some famous pieces, art aficionados shouldn’t miss.

Da Vinci’s Room

This exhibition center is home to two of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous works, the Benois Madonna and Madonna Litta.

Statues of Atlantes

The New Hermitage displays marvelous granite statues of history’s iconic scientists, artists, and even thinkers.

Other notable collections include age-old gold from Europe, assortments of Fabergé jewelry, and works of van Dyck, Poussin, Michelangelo, Rodin, van Gogh, Canova, Picasso, Watteau, Canaletto, among other great art figures.

Opening Hours

Apart from Monday where its closed, Hermitage opens daily from 10.30 a.m; to 6 p.m. Extended hours are on Wednesdays and Fridays when it closes at 9 p.m.