The State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia, is one of the world's most renowned art museums, dedicated exclusively to Russian fine art. Founded in the 19th century by a Russian merchant and collector, Pavel Tretyakov, the gallery has grown into the largest and most significant collection of Russian art in the world. Today, it houses masterpieces from medieval icons to avant-garde works, making it a must-visit for art lovers and historians alike.

This article explores the history, collection, and location of the Tretyakov Gallery, offering insights into how it became one of Russia’s most treasured cultural institutions.

I. The History of the State Tretyakov Gallery

1. The Vision of Pavel Tretyakov (1856–1892)

  • The gallery’s origins date back to 1856, when Pavel Tretyakov, a wealthy Moscow merchant, began collecting Russian paintings.

  • Unlike many collectors of his time, Tretyakov was passionate about promoting Russian art and artists, rather than focusing on Western European works.

  • His collection quickly grew, and by 1874, he commissioned a new building on his estate to display the artworks to the public.

  • In 1892, he officially donated his collection (then over 2,000 artworks) to the city of Moscow, laying the foundation for what would become the State Tretyakov Gallery.

2. The Expansion of the Gallery (1892–1917)

  • After Tretyakov’s death in 1898, the collection continued to grow through state acquisitions and donations from other collectors.

  • The gallery became the first public museum dedicated solely to Russian art.

  • By the early 20th century, the Tretyakov Gallery was already considered the national museum of Russian painting, housing works from the 12th to 19th centuries.

3. Soviet Era and Growth (1917–1991)

  • After the 1917 Russian Revolution, the gallery was nationalized, and many private art collections from the aristocracy were transferred to its holdings.

  • In 1928, the gallery absorbed collections from the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture, further expanding its collection.

  • During World War II, the museum's most valuable pieces were evacuated to Novosibirsk to protect them from Nazi bombings.

  • After the war, the gallery continued to expand, adding a new building in 1985 dedicated to 20th-century Russian art.

4. The Tretyakov Gallery Today

  • Today, the State Tretyakov Gallery holds over 190,000 works of art, spanning from ancient Russian icons to Soviet-era realism and contemporary pieces.

  • It remains Russia’s premier museum of national fine art, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually.

  • In recent years, new exhibitions and modern technology have further enriched the museum experience.

II. The Collection: Must-See Masterpieces

The gallery is famous for its extensive collection of Russian masterpieces, covering different periods of artistic development. Some of the most notable works include:

1. Medieval Russian Icons (12th–17th Century)

  • "The Trinity" by Andrei Rublev (15th century) – One of the most famous Russian Orthodox icons, a masterpiece of spiritual symbolism.

  • "Our Lady of Vladimir" (12th century) – A revered icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have divine protection over Russia.

2. 18th and 19th Century Realism

  • "Portrait of Alexander Pushkin" by Orest Kiprensky – A celebrated depiction of Russia’s greatest poet.

  • "The Apotheosis of War" by Vasily Vereshchagin – A powerful anti-war painting, depicting a vast field of skulls.

3. The Peredvizhniki (The Wanderers) Movement

The Wanderers were a group of realist painters who depicted Russian society, nature, and history. Key works include:

  • "Barge Haulers on the Volga" by Ilya Repin – A striking image of laborers struggling against harsh conditions.

  • "The Morning of the Streltsy Execution" by Vasily Surikov – A dramatic historical scene from 17th-century Russia.

  • "A Rye Field" by Ivan Shishkin – A stunning landscape representing Russia’s vast countryside.

4. Russian Avant-Garde and Soviet Art (20th Century)

  • "Black Square" by Kazimir Malevich – A revolutionary abstract painting, marking the birth of Suprematism.

  • "Worker and Kolkhoz Woman" by Vera Mukhina – A symbol of Soviet socialist realism.

  • "Bathing of a Red Horse" by Kuzma Petrov-Vodkin – A striking modernist interpretation of Russian themes.

III. The Location of the State Tretyakov Gallery

📍 Address

  • Main Building: Lavrushinsky Lane, 10, Moscow, Russia

  • New Tretyakov Gallery (20th-century art): Krymsky Val, 10, Moscow, Russia

📌 How to Find It on the Map

The main building of the State Tretyakov Gallery is located in the historic Zamoskvorechye District, near the Moscow River.

  • Google Maps Coordinates: 55.7414° N, 37.6208° E

  • Metro Station: The nearest metro station is Tretyakovskaya (Orange and Yellow Lines), just a 5-minute walk from the gallery.

🚌 How to Get There

  • By Metro: Take the Orange Line to Tretyakovskaya Station.

  • By Bus: Several city buses and trolleybuses stop near the museum.

  • By Taxi: Moscow taxis and rideshare apps like Yandex.Taxi are convenient.

IV. Visitor Information

⏰ Opening Hours

  • Monday: Closed

  • Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Friday: Extended hours until 9:00 PM

🎟️ Ticket Prices

  • General Admission: 600 RUB ($8 USD)

  • Discounts: Students and seniors receive reduced rates

  • Free Admission: Every third Sunday of the month

📸 Tips for Visitors

✔ Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
✔ Guided tours are available in multiple languages.
✔ Photography is allowed in most galleries (without flash).
✔ Check for temporary exhibitions, as the museum frequently showcases new art.

V. Why Visit the State Tretyakov Gallery?

✔ The Best Collection of Russian Art – From medieval icons to avant-garde masterpieces.
✔ A Deep Dive into Russian Culture – A historical and artistic journey through Russia’s national identity.
✔ A Must-See for Art Lovers – Home to works by Repin, Surikov, Malevich, and Rublev.
✔ Easily Accessible Location – Situated in the heart of Moscow, near the Moscow River and Kremlin.

The State Tretyakov Gallery is more than just a museum—it is a cultural landmark, showcasing the soul of Russia through art. Whether you are a first-time visitor or an art enthusiast, the Tretyakov is an unforgettable experience that connects you to Russia’s rich artistic heritage.

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