History of Religion Museum

Housed in a historic building near the Admiralty, the History of Religion Museum (officially the State Museum of the History of Religion) offers a fascinating journey through humanity's spiritual quests. The museum's extensive collection spans from ancient pagan rituals to modern faiths, with exhibits on Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and indigenous traditions. Visitors can see rare artifacts like Tibetan thangkas, medieval Christian icons, Islamic calligraphy, and ritual objects from Siberia. The museum is distinctive for its academic yet accessible approach, each gallery is arranged thematically, exploring how religion shapes art, ethics, and daily life. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring the exhibits to life. The building itself, a former church, adds to the contemplative atmosphere. A visit here provides context for understanding St. Petersburg's own religious diversity and history.

Don't miss

• View the collection of rare Buddhist artifacts, including a 19th-century Mongolian sand mandala.
• Explore the 'Origins of Religion' gallery with prehistoric burial items and shamanic tools.
• See the intricate Orthodox Christian iconostasis and vestments from the 17th-19th centuries.
• Don't miss the temporary exhibitions that often feature contemporary religious art.
• Visit the museum's library, which holds over 20,000 books on religious studies.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit History of Religion Museum

Cheapest way inImagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art General Admission4.2★ · 24 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedSt. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour5★ · 628 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$18 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Golf Cart Tour - The History of St. Petersburg5★ · 13 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$49 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• The museum is closed on Wednesdays; check current hours online before visiting.
• Audio guides are available in English and Russian; consider renting one for deeper context.
• Photography without flash is allowed in most galleries; some special exhibits may restrict it.
• A cloakroom is available for coats and bags; large backpacks must be checked.

A bit of history

Founded in 1932 as the Museum of the History of Religion and Atheism, it was originally housed in the Kazan Cathedral. The museum moved to its current location in 2000, focusing on the academic study of religion rather than propaganda.