General Staff Building — Attraction in Palace District

Its official name is Главный штаб pronounced 'Glavnyi shtaf' which means Headquarter. There are famous painter's collections such as Cloude Monet and Henri Matisse, etc. Very often they hold exhibitions of the modern artist and invitation exhibitions. On the first floor there were seasonal activities for kids. I was so impressed from their efforts to approach the next generations. They invested time and place, finance for their future. Elevators are supported. Stores sells souvenirs and copies of paintins. Entrance fee was 300 rubles which may convert about 40 USD. Securities are checking bags and inspecting belongs. You need to leave you overcoat and bags at the storage desk as...

Now part of the extensive Heritage Museum Complex ( use same entry ticket), was created by Carlo Rossi in 1820-30s. There are three levels with many exhibitions on each, ranging from African Art to the works of many great artists ( Picasso, van Gogh, and French Impressionist and Post-Impressionists). Its a good opportunity to see such great works in an uncrowded setting, close up. The only "frustration" was the glass in the frames protecting the art, as it gives reflections of the lights. Downstairs is a...

The Rossi wing in the building of the General Staff, facing the Hermitage Palace and which is a recent extension of it, now houses the French impressionists (Renoir, Monet, Pissaro, Manet, Van Gogh, Gauguin) as well as major works by Matisse, Rodin, etc. It hosts in the beautifully furnished 2nd floor salons, major Russian works. This new part of the Hermitage Museum, very modern, houses also a very interesting collection of contemporary and modern art (especially magnificent statues)....