: Tours and Excursion

The State Russian Museum, often referred to as the Gosudarstvennyy Russkiy Muzey or simply the Mikhailovsky Palace collection, stands as the world largest repository of Russian fine art. Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, this institution provides a comprehensive overview of the nation artistic evolution from the 10th century to the modern day. Walking through its grand halls with a private guide, visitors can witness the transition from medieval icons to the avant-garde masterpieces that redefined the global art scene. The museum main building, the Mikhailovsky Palace, is a masterpiece of Neoclassical architecture designed by Carlo Rossi, and it serves as a fitting home for the thousands of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts housed within its walls.

Architectural Grandeur and Royal History

The history of the museum is inextricably linked to the Mikhailovsky Palace, which was originally built for Grand Duke Mikhail Pavlovich. The palace itself is an attraction, with its majestic columns and intricate friezes reflecting the imperial splendor of the early 19th century. When the museum was established in 1895 by Emperor Nicholas II in honor of his father, Alexander III, it became the first state museum of Russian art in the country. Since then, it has expanded to include several other historic buildings nearby, such as the Marble Palace, the Stroganov Palace, and the Saint Michael Castle. Exploring these different branches with a private guide allows for a tailored journey through different eras of Russian history and architecture, providing a deeper understanding of how the tsars and the nobility influenced the development of the arts.

Masterpieces of the Collection

The collection of the State Russian Museum is remarkably diverse, featuring everything from the hauntingly beautiful icons of Andrei Rublev to the monumental historical canvases of Vasily Surikov and Ilya Repin. Repin Barge Haulers on the Volga is perhaps one of the most famous works here, capturing the grit and soul of the Russian people with staggering realism. The museum also houses an unparalleled collection of the Russian avant-garde, featuring works by Kazimir Malevich, Wassily Kandinsky, and Marc Chagall. These artists pushed the boundaries of traditional art, and seeing their work in the context of Russian history provides a fascinating perspective on the cultural shifts of the early 20th century. The museum decorative arts section is equally impressive, showcasing exquisite porcelain, folk art, and imperial jewelry that reveal the craftsmanship and aesthetic values of various Russian regions and periods.

Nearby Landmarks to Explore

• Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood
• Mikhailovsky Garden
• Saint Michael Castle
• Kazan Cathedral
• Summer Garden
• Gostiny Dvor Shopping Center

Discover Russian Heritage with Us

To truly appreciate the depth and complexity of the art housed in this magnificent institution, we invite you to book a specialized tour. Our professional private guides are experts in art history and will ensure that your visit is both educational and inspiring, bringing the stories behind the canvases to life in a way that only a local specialist can. Let us help you navigate the vast galleries of the State Russian Museum for an unforgettable cultural experience in Saint Petersburg.