The Hermitage

August 8

The Baltic World: What Every Art Lover Needs to Know

Peter Trippi outlines the surprising history of this region as it is reflected in art and architecture, paying special attention to the cities we are visiting. 

August 9

St. Petersburg: A Cultural Capital, Against All Odds

Without Tsar Peter the Great’s modernizing vision, St. Petersburg would not have been built, and without the passionate bravery of its residents, the city’s art treasures would have been destroyed during the Nazi siege.  Peter Trippi explores some of the reasons and results in this almost unbelievable story.  Special attention is paid to the State Hermitage Museum, the buildings and collections of which encapsulate so many of the city’s themes. 

August 13

Stockholm: Medieval and Modern

Although renowned for its charming Old Town of late medieval buildings, Stockholm is more accurately a city of the 18^th, 19^th and early 20^th centuries.  Peter Trippi takes a look at some of its landmarks, both artistic and architectural. 
 

Tuesday

We start out with an overview of the city of St. Petersburg to give you a feel for the city and the most important historical factors.

City tour of St. Petersburg will include a VIP opening of St. Isaac Church exclusively for Russian Art Tour guests.

Visits to the Church of the Spilled Blood and Church of St. Peter & Paul.

Private boat tour of rivers and canals — a spectacular way to see the city.

Lunch with fine wine.

Private opening of Hermitage with small-group visits to collections of interest.

Note: Though you will be guided by experts, we have invited some very special guests to join us. If their schedules permit, your visit to St. Petersburg will be even more memorable! 

Private reception at Hermitage (pending).

Wednesday

Student Works at the Repin Institute

Visit to Repin Institute Museum. This is the private museum of the Russian Academy, which was created by Catherine the Great. Here you will find works of art rarely seen by visitors to St. Petersburg, yet it is one of the most magnificent collections of Russian artists who attended the Academy.

Note: Though the Academy is closed for the summer, we are working to arrange a visit to see this special place, where many of the Russian greats studied and students continue the tradition to this day.

Luncheon reception location to be announced.

Tour of The Russian Museum. Though the Hermitage is the most famous museum in Russia, the Russian Museum is the place to see the works of the Russian greats.

Free time to visit flea market next to Russian Museum, or other shopping.

 Thursday

Musicians at Peterhof Palace

Small-group guided tours to your choice of attractions, such as the Peterhof Palace, Catherine’s Palace, or return to the Hermitage.

NOTE: Visa-waivers from Russian Immigration authorities will be arranged for all scheduled excursions.