The architectural ensemble of the State Hermitage includes the Winter Palace, the Small Hermitage, the Great Hermitage, the Hermitage Theatre, and the New Hermitage. The complex was built over almost 100 years, from 1754 to 1851. The collection began with a small set of paintings by Dutch masters, acquired by the empress from a German merchant. By the end of the 18th century, the collection included works by Titian, Raphael, Rubens, and the only sculpture by Michelangelo in Russia, “The Crouching Boy.” In the Winter Palace, Catherine ordered the construction of an annex—the Small Hermitage, where paintings were stored and private dinners for close associates were held. At that time, the Hermitage became a place for discussing art, politics, and new ideas, and visitors were greeted with the inscription: “Leave all ranks outside the door.” The Hermitage remained the home of the royal family until 1917. After the revolution, it became national property, although its collection faced challenges: exhibits were transferred to museums in Soviet republics, and some masterpieces were sold abroad to replenish the state treasury. However, most of the collection was preserved. Interestingly, the Hermitage is guarded not only by people but also by cats! These furry defenders have lived there since the 18th century and even have a holiday dedicated to them, celebrated in late April or early May. A fun fact: if you spent just one minute admiring each exhibit in the Hermitage, it would take several years to see everything!