From 5 July, it will be possible to take guided tours (in Russian) of the exhibition “An Archaeological Phenomenon. Between the Past and the Future”.
Accompanied by the tour guide, participants will take a journey into the history of this country’s last encyclopaedic expedition and immerse themselves in the world of the astonishing culture of the Xiongnu.
The excavations that the Mongolian-Tibetan Expedition under Pyotr Kozlov’s leadership conducted in 1924–25 in the Noin Ula hills of northern Mongolia revealed to the world rich burials of the elite of the nomadic Xiongnu people (3rd century BC – 1st century AD). The geographic location in the permafrost region, the incredible depths to which the graves were dug (over 10 metres), and the character of the ancient burial rite resulted in the excellent preservation of silk and woollen fabrics, wood and lacquer articles that usually vanish without a trace at ancient archaeological sites. The finds date back around 2,000 years.
Tour participants will get acquainted with the unique ancient Xiongnu artefacts, but also with historical documents and photographs connected with the study of the Noin Ula burial mounds, and with the results of the most recent studies.
The tours of the exhibition “An Archaeological Phenomenon. Between the Past and the Future” will take place on Fridays at 5:30 pm.
The approach to the meeting point for the tour group is by way of the Church Staircase. We recommend arriving at the meeting place 15 minutes ahead of the scheduled start time.
The tickets including guiding services cost 1,500 roubles per person. Following the tour, ticket-holders will also be able to independently view the rest of the Main Museum Complex without a guide.
Tickets can be obtained in advance through the State Hermitage website.
