Introduction
The Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow is more than a museum; it is an essential gateway to the heart of Russian culture and one of the most important art collections in the world. For many travelers, it represents the moment when Russian history, spirituality, and creativity come together in one unforgettable experience. Nestled in the historic Zamoskvorechye district, the gallery offers visitors a journey through centuries of Russian art, from the luminous icons of medieval masters to the revolutionary visions of the 20th century avant-garde. For anyone compiling a list of the top things to do in Moscow, a visit to the Tretyakov Gallery naturally finds its place near the very top.
What makes the gallery particularly special is the vision of its founder, Pavel Tretyakov, a merchant who dedicated his life to collecting works by Russian artists at a time when European art dominated cultural circles. His belief was simple yet powerful: Russian artists deserved to be celebrated in their own right. By opening his collection to the public in 1892, Tretyakov not only shared his passion but also created a cultural legacy that continues to inspire millions of visitors. Today, the gallery is recognized not only as one of the leading Moscow attractions but also as a cornerstone of Russia’s national identity.
Stepping into the Tretyakov Gallery is like stepping into a vast narrative that tells the story of Russia itself. Each painting reflects a fragment of the nation’s journey, capturing moments of triumph, struggle, and transformation. The gallery’s atmosphere is immersive and contemplative, inviting visitors to slow down and engage with works that have shaped generations of thought and imagination. Unlike many art museums that feel international in character, the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow remains deeply rooted in the soil of its own culture, making it one of the most distinctive and rewarding destinations in the city.
For travelers seeking not just sightseeing but a genuine cultural encounter, the Tretyakov Gallery provides exactly that. Whether visiting for a short time or devoting several hours, guests will leave with a richer understanding of Russia’s artistic achievements and its place in the wider cultural world. In many ways, a visit here defines what it means to experience Moscow beyond its monuments and boulevards—this is where the essence of Russian creativity lives.
Historical and Cultural Background
The story of the Tretyakov Gallery begins with one man’s vision. Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov, a Moscow merchant born in 1832, believed passionately that Russian art deserved its own space on the world stage. At a time when the Russian elite often preferred to collect European paintings, Tretyakov took a different path: he set out to create a collection of Russian works that would reflect the nation’s character, traditions, and cultural depth. His goal was not simply to amass art for private enjoyment but to share it with the public, thereby strengthening Russia’s artistic identity and pride.
Tretyakov began collecting art in the 1850s, carefully selecting works by contemporary Russian artists. His purchases were guided by a consistent vision: he wanted paintings that captured the reality of Russian life and the spirit of its people. His support of artists like Ilya Repin, Vasily Perov, and Ivan Kramskoi not only enriched his collection but also provided crucial encouragement to painters who sought recognition in a society still dominated by academic conservatism and European influence. Tretyakov became both a patron and a cultural leader, investing his resources in building a permanent home for national art.
By the late 19th century, Tretyakov’s collection had grown into one of the largest in Russia. In 1892, in an act of extraordinary generosity, he donated his gallery—containing more than 2,000 works—to the city of Moscow. This decision turned what had been a private collection into a public institution, laying the foundation for what is now the State Tretyakov Gallery. His gift was not just material but symbolic: it signified the belief that art belonged to the people and that a nation could express its identity through creativity.
The gallery’s significance only grew in the decades that followed. During the Soviet era, the Tretyakov Gallery played a central role in preserving and presenting Russian art, even as cultural policies shifted dramatically. It became a space where both traditional works and revolutionary styles could be encountered, reflecting the tensions and transformations of Russian society. From medieval icons to avant-garde experiments, the gallery showed that Russian art was not static but evolving, responding to the pressures of history while maintaining a uniquely national voice.
Culturally, the Tretyakov Gallery stands as one of Moscow’s defining landmarks, equal in importance to Red Square or the Kremlin when it comes to understanding the city’s identity. For Muscovites, it is more than a museum; it is a treasure house of memory and imagination. Generations of Russians have visited the gallery, finding in its halls both pride in national achievements and inspiration for the future. The gallery thus occupies a dual role: it is both guardian of the past and catalyst for cultural continuity.
The building itself also carries cultural meaning. The façade of the main gallery was designed in the early 20th century by Viktor Vasnetsov, one of the very artists whose works the gallery preserves. His fairy-tale-inspired design, with ornate details drawn from Russian folk motifs, made the gallery itself a work of national art. The architecture embodies the same vision as the collection inside: a celebration of Russia’s unique cultural traditions, distinct from but equal in value to Europe’s artistic legacy.
Today, the Tretyakov Gallery continues to expand and adapt. The original building in Lavrushinsky Lane remains the heart of the collection, focusing on classical Russian art from the 11th to the early 20th century. Meanwhile, the New Tretyakov Gallery on Krymsky Val presents modern and contemporary works, including masterpieces of Russian avant-garde and Soviet art. Together, the two spaces create a comprehensive narrative of Russian artistic development, making the Tretyakov Gallery a cultural institution of both historical weight and contemporary relevance.
For travelers, understanding this background enriches the experience of visiting the gallery. Each hall, each painting, and even the gallery’s architecture are part of a broader story about Russia’s journey through history and its ongoing dialogue with creativity. The Tretyakov Gallery is not just a collection of art—it is a national chronicle, written in color, form, and imagination.
Key Highlights and Features
Walking through the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow is like stepping into a vast timeline of Russian history told through brushstrokes, colors, and forms. The museum’s permanent collection covers nearly a millennium, beginning with medieval icons and continuing through the 19th-century golden age of realism, the bold avant-garde of the early 20th century, and Soviet-era contributions. For many visitors, these highlights form the most memorable part of their journey through Moscow’s cultural landscape. Below are some of the gallery’s key masterpieces and features, each of which offers a window into Russia’s past and artistic identity.
Andrei Rublev’s Trinity Icon
Among the crown jewels of the Tretyakov Gallery is The Trinity by Andrei Rublev, painted in the early 15th century. Considered the highest achievement of medieval Russian icon painting, it depicts three angels representing the Holy Trinity. The composition radiates harmony, spiritual balance, and serenity. Beyond its religious significance, the icon represents the synthesis of faith and artistry that defined Russia’s Orthodox tradition. For many visitors, standing before Rublev’s masterpiece is a deeply moving experience, almost like a meditation on history and spirituality.
The Works of Ilya Repin
The gallery preserves some of the most famous canvases of Ilya Repin, one of Russia’s greatest realist painters. His dramatic Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan captures the psychological intensity of Russian history in a single, haunting image. Another celebrated work, Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks, is admired for its raw energy, humor, and historical resonance. Repin’s ability to blend realism with emotional depth makes his works some of the most unforgettable in the gallery, offering visitors an unfiltered look at the passions and conflicts that shaped the nation.
Viktor Vasnetsov’s Bogatyrs
Folklore comes alive in Vasnetsov’s monumental Bogatyrs, which portrays three legendary warriors from Russian epic tradition. With its bold figures and heroic symbolism, the painting embodies the cultural pride of 19th-century Russia, drawing on folk legends to inspire national unity. Visitors often linger before this canvas, captivated by its combination of fantasy, mythology, and patriotism. Vasnetsov’s contribution to the gallery is more than artistic—it reinforces the bridge between Russia’s oral traditions and its visual culture.
Symbolist Masterpieces by Mikhail Vrubel
Mikhail Vrubel’s works bring a mystical and often unsettling atmosphere to the collection. His Demon Seated remains one of the most striking images in Russian art, blending Symbolism with personal expression. Vrubel’s dramatic use of color, texture, and emotion challenges viewers to reflect on themes of inner conflict and transcendence. His paintings stand in contrast to the realism of Repin, showing the diversity of Russian art at the turn of the 20th century.
Kazimir Malevich and the Avant-Garde
No exploration of Russian art is complete without mentioning the avant-garde, and the Tretyakov Gallery presents pivotal works by Kazimir Malevich, including pieces from his Suprematist period. While Black Square is housed elsewhere, the Tretyakov contains works that illustrate Malevich’s journey toward abstraction. These canvases mark a revolutionary departure from traditional art, reflecting the cultural upheavals of the early 20th century. For many travelers, seeing these works is a reminder that Moscow was once a cradle of global modernism.
Kuzma Petrov-Vodkin’s Bathing of a Red Horse
Another highlight is Petrov-Vodkin’s Bathing of a Red Horse, an iconic painting of Russian modernism. The canvas depicts a boy on a bright red horse, set against a shimmering blue background. Symbolic and allegorical, the painting has been interpreted as a vision of Russia on the brink of revolution, full of tension and anticipation. Its unique use of color and composition distinguishes it as one of the most memorable works in the collection.
Portraits of Russian Intellectuals
The gallery also holds portraits of some of Russia’s most influential cultural figures. Ilya Repin’s portrait of Leo Tolstoy, for example, captures not only the likeness but also the intellectual gravity of the writer. Similarly, portraits of composers, scientists, and philosophers reflect the interconnected world of Russian creativity. For visitors, these paintings provide a personal connection to names that shaped global culture, turning abstract fame into human presence.
The Architecture of the Gallery
The building itself is a highlight worth noting. Viktor Vasnetsov’s redesign of the façade gives the museum the appearance of a fairy-tale palace, decorated with folkloric motifs and distinctly Russian forms. Inside, the galleries are arranged to guide visitors chronologically, allowing them to walk through centuries of art in a coherent narrative. The architecture contributes to the overall experience, reminding guests that the gallery is not only about the works it holds but also about the space it creates for cultural immersion.
Temporary Exhibitions and Modern Additions
Beyond its permanent treasures, the Tretyakov Gallery regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that bring fresh perspectives to Russian art. These exhibitions may focus on individual artists, specific movements, or thematic studies, often including works from international collections. For frequent visitors, these changing displays ensure that each visit offers something new and stimulating.
The New Tretyakov Gallery
While the historic building on Lavrushinsky Lane houses classical Russian art, the New Tretyakov Gallery on Krymsky Val is devoted to the 20th and 21st centuries. Here, visitors encounter works from the Russian avant-garde, socialist realism, and contemporary movements. Together, the two branches present a comprehensive picture of Russia’s artistic evolution, making the Tretyakov Gallery a two-part experience that spans the entirety of the nation’s visual culture.
In sum, the key highlights of the Tretyakov Gallery represent not just individual masterpieces but a collective narrative of Russian identity. Each work tells a story, whether spiritual, historical, or mythical, and together they weave an extraordinary tapestry that makes this gallery one of the essential Moscow attractions for travelers seeking depth and meaning in their exploration of the city.
Local Experiences and Traditions
For Muscovites, the Tretyakov Gallery is far more than an attraction reserved for tourists—it is an institution deeply embedded in the cultural life of the city. To understand its role, one must look not only at the artworks on display but also at how locals engage with the gallery in daily life, during seasonal changes, and on important national holidays. A visit here allows travelers to see how art and tradition intertwine in Moscow’s rhythm.
A Place for Lifelong Learning
Many Russians grow up visiting the Tretyakov Gallery from an early age. School groups are a common sight in the galleries, with children learning about Russian history through paintings rather than textbooks. For local families, bringing their children to see the works of Repin or Vasnetsov is a rite of passage, a way of instilling national pride and cultural awareness. Students of art and history also frequent the museum, sketching masterpieces in their notebooks or studying details of technique. This educational role ensures that the Tretyakov Gallery is not only a repository of art but also a living classroom.
Seasonal Atmosphere Around the Gallery
The experience of visiting the Tretyakov Gallery shifts with Moscow’s seasons. In spring and summer, the surrounding Zamoskvorechye district becomes lively, with locals strolling along Lavrushinsky Lane and enjoying outdoor cafés after their visit. The neighborhood’s quiet courtyards and historic churches add charm to a summer excursion. During autumn, the crisp air and golden leaves seem to echo the warmth of Russian realist paintings inside the gallery. Winter transforms the area into a snow-covered scene that feels like a backdrop from a Vasnetsov painting, making the gallery visit all the more atmospheric. For many Muscovites, winter weekends often include both cultural outings to the gallery and cozy gatherings at nearby cafés.
Connection to Russian Holidays and Events
The Tretyakov Gallery often plays a role in cultural programming around national holidays. For example, during Victory Day in May, temporary exhibits or themed tours may highlight works that reflect the heroism and struggles of the Russian people. Around Orthodox Easter, icons and religious art attract greater interest, drawing visitors who wish to experience spiritual traditions through visual culture. On International Museum Day in May, the gallery sometimes offers free admission or special lectures, and Muscovites take advantage of these opportunities to reconnect with their cultural heritage.
A Meeting Point for Generations
Over time, the Tretyakov Gallery has become a place where different generations come together. Elderly Muscovites who remember their first visits decades ago often return with grandchildren, passing down stories about the art and about life in earlier eras of Russia. For them, the gallery is not just about paintings but about continuity—linking the past with the present. Many locals also use the gallery as a social meeting point, whether to attend lectures, concerts, or special film screenings hosted within its halls.
The New Tretyakov and Contemporary Life
Locals also make use of the New Tretyakov Gallery on Krymsky Val, which often feels more dynamic and experimental. Here, residents attend modern art exhibitions, film festivals, and cultural events. The location by the Moskva River, close to Gorky Park, makes it a popular weekend destination where art blends seamlessly with leisure. Muscovites may spend the morning exploring avant-garde works and then enjoy an afternoon in the park, highlighting how the gallery integrates with everyday city life.
Local Traditions of Cultural Appreciation
Russian culture places a strong emphasis on literature, music, and art, and the Tretyakov Gallery is seen as a temple of national creativity. Locals treat the museum with respect, often speaking in hushed tones as they move through the galleries. It is considered good manners to pause thoughtfully before a major work, rather than rush from painting to painting. For foreign visitors, observing this cultural etiquette provides an authentic glimpse into how Muscovites engage with their heritage.
Special Programs and Community Engagement
The gallery also runs programs designed to engage the local community. Lectures, guided tours, and art workshops invite Muscovites to deepen their knowledge. Cultural evenings with concerts or poetry readings add another layer of experience, blending visual art with performance. For residents of Moscow, the Tretyakov Gallery thus serves not only as a museum but as a cultural hub, a place where creativity continues to evolve and where tradition is constantly renewed.
In this way, the Tretyakov Gallery embodies a living tradition rather than a static collection. For locals, it represents pride, memory, and inspiration; for travelers, it offers a chance to witness art as it is woven into the everyday life of Moscow. To visit the gallery is not only to look at paintings but also to share in a cultural ritual that has been cherished by generations of Russians.
Practical Information for Visitors
For anyone planning a cultural journey through Moscow, the Tretyakov Gallery is a destination that requires some preparation. While the museum is welcoming and easy to navigate, a bit of advance knowledge will make the experience far smoother and more rewarding. From location details to transportation advice, ticketing, and visitor services, here is everything you need to know to plan your visit.
Location and Orientation
The main building of the Tretyakov Gallery is located at 10 Lavrushinsky Lane, in the Zamoskvorechye district of Moscow. This neighborhood lies just south of the Moskva River and is known for its charming pedestrian streets, historic churches, and old merchant houses. The gallery itself stands out with its fairy-tale façade designed by Viktor Vasnetsov, making it easy to recognize.
The New Tretyakov Gallery, which focuses on 20th-century and contemporary art, is located on 10 Krymsky Val, near Gorky Park. Both branches are significant and complement one another, so visitors interested in seeing the full sweep of Russian art may wish to visit both.
Getting There
- By Metro: The fastest and most convenient way is to take the Moscow Metro. For the main gallery on Lavrushinsky Lane, the nearest station is Tretyakovskaya (Line 6, orange line, or Line 8, yellow line). From the station, it is a five-minute walk. For the New Tretyakov Gallery, Oktyabrskaya (Line 5, brown circle line, or Line 6, orange line) is the most convenient stop.
- By Bus or Tram: Several bus and trolleybus routes pass near Lavrushinsky Lane, though the metro remains more reliable for visitors unfamiliar with the city.
- By Taxi or Car: Ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go and Citymobil are widely used in Moscow. Parking near the gallery can be limited, especially on weekends, so public transportation is recommended.
- By Foot: For those staying in central Moscow, the gallery is within walking distance from Red Square (about 20–25 minutes), making it easy to combine visits to several major attractions in a single day.
Opening Hours
The gallery generally follows this schedule:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
- Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 – 21:00
- Closed on Monday
It is worth noting that the New Tretyakov Gallery may have slightly different opening hours. Checking the official website before planning a visit is strongly recommended, especially for holiday schedules.
Tickets and Admission
- General Admission: Tickets are sold separately for the main Tretyakov Gallery and the New Tretyakov Gallery. Combined tickets are sometimes available for those who plan to visit both sites.
- Discounts: Reduced-price tickets are available for students, children, seniors, and certain professional categories such as teachers. Children under a certain age (typically 7 or younger) may enter free of charge.
- Free Days: Occasionally, on special cultural holidays or events like International Museum Day, admission may be free or discounted. These days are popular with locals and often crowded.
- Online Booking: To avoid long lines, especially during weekends or tourist season, it is advisable to book tickets online in advance. QR codes or electronic tickets on smartphones are widely accepted at the entrance.
Guided Tours and Audio Guides
The Tretyakov Gallery offers official guided tours in Russian and sometimes in English. Private guides can also be arranged in multiple languages, providing more personalized insights into the collection. For independent visitors, audio guides are available at the entrance, offering commentary on major works and thematic tours such as “Russian Realism” or “Avant-Garde Highlights.”
Visitor Facilities
- Cloakroom: Large bags, backpacks, and coats must be left at the cloakroom, which is secure and free of charge.
- Cafés and Shops: Both the main and New Tretyakov Gallery have cafés where visitors can enjoy light meals, coffee, or desserts. Museum shops sell postcards, exhibition catalogues, and reproductions of famous works.
- Accessibility: Elevators and ramps are available for wheelchair users, and special tours can be arranged for visitors with mobility needs.
- Rest Areas: Benches are placed throughout the galleries, allowing visitors to pause and reflect between sections.
Best Times to Visit
- Weekday Mornings: The quietest time to explore, with minimal crowds, perfect for those who want to linger undisturbed before the major works.
- Late Afternoons or Evenings: On days when the museum closes later, arriving after 17:00 can provide a more relaxed experience.
- Avoiding Crowds: Weekends, especially Saturday afternoons, are the busiest. Holidays and free admission days can be overwhelming if seeking a peaceful visit.
Suggested Duration
A full visit to the Tretyakov Gallery can easily take three to four hours, even more for art enthusiasts. For a comprehensive experience, many visitors spend half a day exploring. If planning to visit both the main gallery and the New Tretyakov Gallery, it is best to allocate two separate days or dedicate an entire day to art immersion.
Nearby Attractions
The gallery’s location makes it easy to combine with other Moscow highlights:
- Marfo-Mariinsky Convent: A short walk from Lavrushinsky Lane, known for its white stone architecture and peaceful gardens.
- Zamoskvorechye District: Wander through historic streets filled with old merchant houses and small churches.
- Moskva River Embankment: A pleasant walk offering views of central Moscow, perfect for photos before or after the gallery visit.
- Gorky Park (near the New Tretyakov Gallery): Ideal for a relaxing stroll, bike ride, or coffee after seeing modern art collections.
With this practical information, visitors can approach the Tretyakov Gallery not only as a museum stop but as a carefully planned cultural highlight in their Moscow journey.
Insider Tips
Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow is rewarding no matter how much time one spends there, but with a little inside knowledge the experience becomes far more memorable. While most guidebooks cover the basics, seasoned travelers and locals know that certain strategies and small details can make a big difference. Below are some carefully chosen insider recommendations that will help visitors get the most out of their time at this essential Moscow attraction.
1. Start Early and Plan Your Route
The Tretyakov Gallery’s collection is vast, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Arriving at opening time on a weekday ensures a quieter environment, giving you the chance to see masterpieces like Rublev’s Trinity or Repin’s Ivan the Terrible and His Son without large crowds pressing in. A smart approach is to begin with the medieval icons on the upper floors and work chronologically through the collection. This way, you experience the evolution of Russian art step by step, rather than skipping randomly between eras.
2. Don’t Miss the “Hidden Gems”
While many visitors rush to the famous paintings, the gallery is full of lesser-known treasures that reward careful attention. Works by painters such as Vasily Polenov or Isaac Levitan offer tranquil landscapes and intimate depictions of Russian life, often overlooked by those who focus only on the major highlights. Taking time to explore quieter halls will reveal these gems and provide a more balanced view of Russian creativity.
3. Use the Audio Guide or Book a Private Tour
Even if you are familiar with Russian history, the gallery’s works are layered with symbolism and cultural references that are easy to miss. The audio guide provides commentary that brings the paintings to life, offering background stories about the artists and the context in which they worked. For those seeking a deeper dive, hiring a private guide fluent in English can turn the visit into a personal cultural seminar, answering questions and highlighting details that are not obvious.
4. Explore the Surrounding Zamoskvorechye District
One of the pleasures of visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is its setting. After exploring the collection, wander the surrounding neighborhood of Zamoskvorechye. This district is filled with historic churches, pastel-colored merchant houses, and cozy cafés. Streets like Pyatnitskaya are lively with dining options ranging from traditional Russian cuisine to modern fusion restaurants. Locals often combine a gallery visit with a leisurely walk through these charming streets, making it a cultural day out rather than a single museum stop.
5. Combine the Main Gallery with the New Tretyakov
If your schedule allows, visiting both branches of the gallery provides a complete picture of Russian art. The main gallery on Lavrushinsky Lane offers the classics, while the New Tretyakov Gallery on Krymsky Val immerses visitors in 20th-century avant-garde, socialist realism, and contemporary movements. Seeing both allows you to trace the trajectory of Russian creativity from ancient icons to modern abstraction. Ideally, plan these visits on separate days, but if time is limited, you can combine them by spending a morning in the main gallery and an afternoon at the New Tretyakov, finishing with a walk in Gorky Park.
6. Visit in the Evening for a Different Mood
On days when the museum stays open late (usually Thursday, Friday, and Saturday), the atmosphere changes dramatically after 18:00. Fewer visitors remain, the lighting becomes softer, and the galleries take on a contemplative calm. This is a favorite time for locals who want to avoid crowds. For travelers, an evening visit offers the chance to enjoy the art in a more intimate setting and perhaps end the evening at a nearby restaurant.
7. Take Note of Temporary Exhibitions
The Tretyakov Gallery is constantly organizing temporary exhibitions that bring in works from other Russian museums or international collections. These often focus on specific artists, movements, or cultural themes. Checking the schedule in advance can help you plan your trip to coincide with an exhibition that matches your interests. Many locals plan repeat visits specifically around these rotating shows, making them an insider’s favorite.
8. Learn a Few Words of Russian Etiquette
Although staff at the gallery are accustomed to international visitors, a small effort in Russian etiquette goes a long way. Simple greetings such as Zdravstvuyte (Hello) or Spasibo (Thank you) are appreciated. It is also common courtesy to stand back slightly if someone is already viewing a painting closely. Russians value thoughtful, quiet engagement with art, and adopting this manner not only shows respect but also helps you blend in with local visitors.
9. Enjoy the Museum Café and Bookshop
The museum café offers more than just coffee; it provides a quiet space to rest and absorb the experience. Locals often stop there for a tea break, especially on winter afternoons when the contrast between the warm café and snowy streets outside adds to the charm. The bookshop is also worth browsing, with high-quality reproductions, scholarly catalogues, and souvenirs that make excellent mementos. Unlike generic gift shops, the Tretyakov’s shop reflects the richness of the collection itself.
10. Allow Time to Reflect
The Tretyakov Gallery is not a place to rush through. Locals often return multiple times, each visit focusing on a different section or theme. As a traveler, you may not have this luxury, but you can still follow the same principle: select a few rooms or works that resonate most and spend extra time with them. Sitting quietly in front of a masterpiece, rather than hurrying on, provides the deeper experience that makes the Tretyakov unforgettable.
Conclusion
The Tretyakov Gallery is more than one of the most important Moscow attractions—it is a living reflection of the Russian spirit. From the serene beauty of medieval icons to the bold experimentation of avant-garde artists, the collection encapsulates the full spectrum of Russia’s artistic journey. For visitors, it provides not only a chance to see world-class artworks but also to understand how art and history intertwine in shaping a nation’s identity.
Including the Tretyakov Gallery in a Moscow travel itinerary ensures a deeper appreciation of the city’s cultural landscape. It is a place where history, creativity, and national pride converge, offering insights that go beyond the surface of tourism. For anyone seeking to explore the essence of Russia, the Tretyakov Gallery stands as an indispensable destination—one that leaves a lasting impression long after leaving its halls.