The Hermitage

On the way to the Hermitage Museum, we stopped by the Russian cruiser Aurora. A shot from it's gun signaled the Bolsheviks to storm the Winter Palace at 9:40pm on October 25, 1917.

After leaving the Aurora, we headed to the Hermitage Museum and stood in line. The Hermitage consists of a couple of buildings including the Winter Palace, the Large Hermitage, and the Little Hermitage. Building began in 1754 on the Winter Palace for Tsarina Elizabeth. Much of the interiors were remodeled by Catherine the Great and her successors.

The Hermitage has a collection of over 3 million items. Amongst the many artists who have works contained within the museum are Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, and Rembrandt.

After the tour of the Hermitage, we had a little time to do some shopping in the museum store. There was also an internet cafe on the premises. It cost 20 rubles (80 cents) for 20 minutes of time.

After dinner, we went to the Menshikoff Concert Hall to see a folk show performance called the "Soul of Russia". Champagne and red caviar was served for free during the intermission.