The Chambers of the Romanov Boyars at 10 Ulitsa Varvarka in Moscow are the sole surviving building from the Romanov family’s former estate. Inside, period furnishings and carefully kept details give a close look at how Russian boyars lived in the 16th and 17th centuries. Michael Romanov, later elected tsar in 1613, was born here in 1596. The rooms are a useful stop if you want to understand the family’s life before its rise to the throne; allow time to find the entrance, as it can be hard to spot.
A Romanov family home
The chambers belonged to the Romanov boyars, a noble family whose estate once covered a larger complex. This house is the only building from that estate to survive. Its rooms help explain how the family lived before the Romanovs became Russia’s ruling dynasty.
Michael Romanov was born here on July 12, 1596. In 1613, he was elected tsar by the Council of the Russian Lands after the Time of Troubles.
Moving through the rooms
The museum presents the interiors with period furnishings and small details that convey the household’s way of life. Staff provide shoe covers, and covers are removed from furniture as you enter each room so you can see the displays clearly.
The museum is a branch of the State Historical Museum. Some room information may be harder to follow if you need English-language interpretation.
FAQ
Where are the Chambers of the Romanov Boyars?
The museum is at 10 Ulitsa Varvarka in Moscow, within walking distance of the Kremlin. The entrance can be difficult to find, so allow extra time.
What can you see inside?
The rooms contain period furnishings and details illustrating how Russian boyars lived in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Is the museum accessible by wheelchair?
The entrance is listed as wheelchair accessible.
Do you need shoe covers?
Shoe covers are provided as you enter the rooms.
