State Tretyakov Gallery

An art gallery which started from the personal collection of a merchant and today houses more than 130,000 pieces of artwork throughout the history of Russia.

The gallery was opened in 1893 when Moscow merchant Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov's huge personal collection of around 2000 works was permanently put on display for the Russian public. Originally based in a small building just south of the Kremlin, the gallery grew in size considerably as it amassed more and more pices of art throughout the 20th century. The State Tretyakov Gallery provides an insight into the history of Russian art that is not seen anywhere else. It takes you into the works of art by artists from the 10th century onwards, works which were otherwise not publicised or very well known. The gallery is an important study into understanding the inspirations drawn by the famous 20th century Russian artists. It's huge collection of 130,000 items is displayed over a staggering 62 rooms and makes for an extremely educational experience!