-The Small Hermitage-
Built between 1764 and 1769, this building served as a retreat for Catherine the Great where she could entertain her favourite courtiers and as a new space where she could display her immense art collection. The Small Hermitage consists of 2 long galleries split into northern and southern sections on either side of an enclosed floating garden. To the south of the garden are apartments for Catherine’s privacy. To the north, is the Pavillion Hall for hosting parties.
To get to the Small Hermitage you need to cross St. George's Hall (Room 198). This hall acts as the official throne room where the Tsar receives diplomats and holds court.
Behind the mirrored double doors on either side of the Throne dais is the Apollo Hall (Room 260). The Apollo Hall served as an anteroom for the Imperial Family to assemble before state events. This room is actually a second-floor bridge that links the Imperial Winter Palace to the Small Hermitage.
The western gallery is known as the Romanov Gallery (North and South).
The floating garden is a vast open space where many different species of plants can be cultivated. Those courtiers fortunate enough to have access to this private area of the palace bask in sun any chance they get.
The eastern wing is know respective as the Treasure Gallery (south) and the Eastern Gallery (north).