Its collections include masterpieces of painting, sculpture, architecture, as well as archaeological artifacts and applied arts. Located in the cultural capital of Russia – St. Petersburg, the Hermitage is a colossal exhibition ensemble. In addition to art objects, the exposition includes the ceremonial possessions of imperial persons.

Interesting Facts
– Of the 317 paintings that the Empress received in 1764, at least 96 canvases are kept in the Hermitage.
– Since the 18th century, many cats have been living in the museum buildings. They are considered official employees of the Hermitage because they help to fight rodents that can damage valuable works of art.
– There are 176 sculptures on the roof of the Winter Palace. They are placed in such a way as to hide the chimneys from the eyes of passers-by.
– In the period from 1964 to 1991 the museum was called the State Hermitage of the Order of Lenin.
– Initially, the buildings of the museum complex were painted in different colors. They acquired the usual green tint after the end of the Great Patriotic War.
– In the Hermitage you can see a massive gold snuffbox, which was used to kill Emperor Paul I. A dent from the blow remained on its side.
– The Hermitage is the only museum in Russia that displays canvases created by Leonardo da Vinci.
– The most expensive painting in the gallery is Malevich’s Black Square. Its cost is estimated at 20 million dollars.
– The largest canvas is Paradise by Tintoretto. It occupies three exhibition halls. The painting is 7 meters high and 22 meters long.