The State Tretyakov Gallery is one of the most renowned art museums in the world and holds the foremost collection of Russian fine art. Founded in 1856 by Moscow merchant Pavel Tretyakov, the gallery began as a private collection and was later donated to the city of Moscow in 1892. Today, the gallery's extensive collection includes more than 170,000 artworks, spanning over a millennium of Russian history—from ancient icons to Soviet-era masterpieces.

The gallery's main building, located in the historic Zamoskvorechye district, is instantly recognizable by its fairy-tale-like façade designed by Viktor Vasnetsov. Inside, visitors can explore works by legendary Russian artists such as Andrey Rublev, Ilya Repin, Ivan Shishkin, and Kazimir Malevich. Among the most famous pieces are Rublev's 'The Trinity,' Repin's 'Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan,' and Malevich's 'Black Square.' The gallery also showcases religious icons from the 11th century, including those created by Rublev, which are considered some of the finest in the world.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Tretyakov Gallery frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight various aspects of Russian art and culture. The gallery is also an important cultural center, offering lectures, educational programs, and public events. For those interested in modern and contemporary Russian art, the New Tretyakov Gallery, a branch of the Tretyakov, is located on Krymsky Val and focuses on 20th-century works, including those of the Russian avant-garde. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery provides an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Russian artistic heritage.