Exploring the Hermitage!

Day 10. April 23, 2009.

Today was a great day in the city of St. Petersburg! We had a short lesson where we shared the photo journals we've been assembling throughout the trip. The photo journals consist of different pictures that we have taken and a caption underneath. Some of them are coming together quite nicely! We also discussed different types of architectural styles briefly and then learned about sketching from the one point perspective. Following lunch, the group set out to explore the Hermitage. The Hermitage is an icon of the city, not only recognized by its massive size and lovely teal color, but also because it has a long history. This palace was where previous Russian tsars lived up until after the reign of Alexander II. The interior is absolutely amazing. You have to look at a room from ceiling to floor to make sure you don't miss a thing. From the high ceilings, to the intricate parquet floors, and the enormous columns made of gold, it was absolutely breathtaking! Because the Hermitage is so large, we only explored one wing and it would not be hard to get lost! My favorite room was the library, which was decorated with dark wooden desks, shelves, and even a staircase that led to a second floor of books! There was not one room we entered that I wasn't intrigued by! We'll be returning to the Hermitage several more times throughout our trip and I can't wait to explore it more! So long from Russia :)
PS - A photo of our crazy lead NOT leading us through the Hermitage!