Mendeleev museum and archives tour
The SPbU Mendeleev museum and archives offers weekly guided tours.
Since 1911, the museum dedicated to the renowned scientist has been housed in the scientist’s state-issued apartment at St Petersburg University in the Twelve Collegia Building, where he lived with his family from 1866 to 1890. While living here, Mendeleev discovered the Periodic Law of Chemical Elements, which influenced the development of scientific thought for subsequent generations of chemists. The classic textbook "Principles of Chemistry" was also written here, along with works on gas physics and studies of water solutions based on specific gravity. The university apartment witnessed intellectual gatherings known as «Mendeleev’s Wednesdays» and séances that attracted the attention of the entire capital’s intelligentsia, sparking numerous debates and mysteries.
During the tour you will learn about the work of the most outstanding natural scientist of the 19th century. You will see the scientist’s original belongings, furniture, unique rare books and portraits painted by great Russian artists. Most importantly, you will be able to enter Dmitry Ivanovich’s memorial study, reconstructed from archive photographs, which will instantly transport you to Mendeleev’s working environment. The scientist’s personal library, which he carefully collected and preserved throughout most of his life, is also of great interest.
Tour schedule
- 5, 19, 26 April 12.30 pm
- 8, 15, 29 April 3.30 pm
Duration: 1 hour. No prior booking is required. Please bring a valid form of identification to enter the University campus.