The Hermitage is opened!

Yes over the weekend there was major fanfare on the Amstel as the Queen and the Russian president got together along with several other important people to have a ceremony and declare the Hermitage- opened. The museum is the only branch outside of Russia, of the world famous Hermitage museum in St. Petersburg.

For the past 300+ years the building on the Amstel had served as a home for the elderly. Until the decision was made several years ago that it should be renovated and made into a permanent museum. As one would expect, it will offer visitors a chance to view rare works of Russian art.

The museum is opened daily, from 10am to 5pm. Admission is €15 for adults. But children under 16 or those with an I Amsterdam card, get in for free.

Here's a video of the opening ceremony: