| HERMITAGE |
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The HERMITAGE (Russian: Эрмитаж, pronounced “Ermitazh”), founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great, now remains one of the world’s largest museums of art and culture and is rightfully considered by many to be the city’s finest attraction. Its collections, of almost 3 million items, include the world’s largest collection of paintings. The State Hermitage is open every day from 10:30 am to 5.30 pm and to 5pm on Sunday and is closed on Mondays. Remember to buy your ticket no later than 1 hour before closing time. Unfortunately, the entrance ticket for foreign visitors is several times more expensive than for Russians. But the first Thursday of every month it is free of charge to all. Today’s Hermitage consists of 6 buildings: the Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, the Hermitage Theatre and the Reserve House. |
