Putin congratulates Hermitage Director Piotrovsky on his 80th birthday

Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Mikhail Piotrovsky, Director of the State Hermitage Museum, on his 80th birthday. The corresponding message was published on the Kremlin website on December 9.

"Dear Mikhail Borisovich, please accept congratulations on your 80th birthday," the congratulatory message reads.

The head of state noted the huge contribution that the director of the Hermitage made to the development of the museum business in Russia. In addition, he called Piotrovsky's many years of work as head of the museum an example of heroic service to people and the Fatherland.

Putin wished him success and health.

Piotrovsky has headed the museum since 1992. He succeeded his father, Boris Piotrovsky, and in September 2022 he was reappointed to the post for another three years.

Chief at the exhibits: Mikhail Piotrovsky - 80

What path the Hermitage Director has traveled and to whom he may pass his post

Earlier, on December 2, Piotrovsky, during an Internet meeting dedicated to the Hermitage Days, figuratively spoke about the "changing of the guard" in the museum's leadership. At the same time, Mikhail Shvydkoy, the Russian president's special envoy for international cultural cooperation, noted in a conversation with Izvestia that he sees no replacement for Piotrovsky.

On December 4, Piotrovsky called the possible change of the Hermitage leadership rumors and did not comment on the matter.