Housed in the original residence of the great Russian author Fyodor Dostoyevsky, the museum dedicated to his memory is a must visit for all those who are interested in his work. A major part of the writer's youth and old age was spent here and his popular novel 'The Brothers Karamazov' was composed here. Many of his personal belongings including his toys, books, quills, clothes are on display along with pictures, letters and manuscripts. The interior of the building has been restored to Dostoyevsky's era and offers a rare glimpse into the mind and personal life of the literary genius. A number of events such as lectures, conferences and other functions are conducted here on the author's birthday to honor his contribution to Russian literature.
The Arctic and Antarctic Museum of St Petersburg, Russia is home to the world's largest collection of exhibits and information on the polar regions. Established in 1930, it is housed in a beautiful neoclassical church from the early 19th Century. A wide variety of display items can be seen here including stuffed polar animals, personal belongings of polar explorers, expedition equipment, protective clothing, memorabilia pieces among other rare fascinating pieces. The primary attractions however remain the large stuffed polar bears, a small rescue plane and mammoth tusks and teeth. Most of the information is available in Russian but foreign visitors can opt for an audio guide in English. Many excursions based on Arctic life and nature are organized for kids and families, and are charged extra apart from the entrance fees.