News / News Bulletin

Russia Hermitage museum holds annual cat festival

Sunday, 14 May 2017 2:57 PM [ Last Update: Sunday, 14 May 2017 4:47 PM ]

The Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg has held its annual 'Day of Hermitage Cat'.

During the event, dozens of cats welcome visitors in the Winter Palace. It is a special project of the Hermitage, which is dedicated to cats that claim the museum is their home.

Since the 18th century, Cats have become an important part of the life of the Museum and one of the significant legends of the Hermitage.

Russian Empress, Elizabeth, issued an order for authorities to obtain "the best and biggest cats" available due to the building being overrun with rats and mice. Currently there are about 50-60 cats in the Museum basement.