Vladimir Nabokov, the famous Russian writer, lived in Saint-Petersburg until he was 18. It was time of his life. Nabokov got a perfect home education. The lessons were given by English and French governess and Russian teachers. The years spent in Petersburg were full of impressions. The writer’s father was a famous politician. In his house the famous resolution calling for new constitution and the revolution of 1905 was signed. His father was also a chairman of literature society. Different cultural workers always visited the family (Benua, Shalayapin, Wells). Family library included 11 thousand books in different languages.

 

In 1917 the property of writer’s family was nationalized and they moved to Europe.

 

Today the Nabokov’s museum is situated at the former writer’s department. Almost none of writer’s belongings were preserved. The museum administration did their best in order to gather the collection anew.

 

The collection is very nice. It tells a lot about the writers life and creative work (eyeglasses, small cards with Nabokov’s thoughts, photos, collection of butterflies). In the library now one can admire the first editions of author’s books.

 

Due to administration efforts, the house like a century ago still provides the atmosphere with a rich cultural life. Different philological meetings, theatrical performances, Nabokov’s readings are constantly held. Russian and foreign linguists often visit the meetings.

 

The house situated in the heart of Saint-Petersburg remained the only Nabokov’s house. He didn’t purchase another one even when he lived abroad. Those who read Nabokov understand how much the house and years spent in Russia meant to the author.