The State Russian Museum
The State Russian Museum (1819-1823), architect Karl Rossi
Day off: Tuesday
Distance from the hotel: 1,2 km
It's housed in the former Mikhailovsky palace, which in 1898 Nicholas II turned a museum that has become one of the country's most important art galleries. He did so in tribute to his father, Alexander III, who had a special regard for Russian art. The square in front of the palace was originally named Mikhailovsky Ploshchad for Grand Duke Mikhail Pavlovich (1798-1849), the younger brother of Alexander I and Nicholas I and resident of the palace. The square's appearance is the work of Carlo Rossi, who designed the facade of each building encircling it as well as the Mikhailovsky Palace. Each structure, as well as the plaza itself, was made to complement Mikhail's residence on its north side. The palace was built between 1819 and 1825 years. By these days the collection of Russian Museum is a few times greater than Moscow's Tretyakov Gallery. The illuminated palace by night is a perfect backdrop for romantic assignations.