“Ever wonder how chocolate conquered Russia?” asks the aroma wafting from within. Today we explore the Museum of Russian Chocolate History in Moscow. This museum is dedicated to the history of chocolate. It also covers the history of cacao.
Moscow’s Museum of Russian Chocolate History opened in 2014. It is located on Triumph Square. Before the museum, the building housed the Alexander Khanzhonkov cinema.
The Museum of Russian Chocolate History sees many visitors each year. Around 50,000 people visit annually. The museum boasts over 15,000 exhibits. More than 10,000 are in the museum’s reserves.
The museum has three halls. These halls showcase the history of chocolate. They also detail cacao’s journey into the modern world.
The first hall covers chocolate’s history. It begins with the Aztecs. For them, a cacao bean drink had sacred value. This hall displays ancient vessels. It also features examples of how cacao beans became currency. Visitors will see antique porcelain. Products from well-known modern confectioners are on display too.
Before 1917, Russia was a leader in chocolate production. By 1914, Moscow and Petrograd had 383 confectionery businesses. The second hall tells of Russia’s chocolate glory. It highlights the best chocolate factories. These factories date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This hall reveals secrets of that era. Graphic design and packaging were entrusted to the best artists.
The third hall covers the Soviet era. Here, you can find familiar names. “Mishka Kosolapy” and “Alenka” are iconic. Also featured are New Year’s sets with sweet gifts. This hall showcases the art of Soviet-era illustrators.
The Museum of Russian Chocolate History also hosts a mini-production area. Here, visitors see how chocolate is made. The process starts with cacao bean roasting. It ends with a finished bar. Visitors watch as cacao beans are processed. They are transformed into a finished tile.
Museum-exhibition programs include historical tastings. You can sample sacred drinks of the ancients. You can also try chocolate loved by Diderot. Modern natural chocolate is also available.
Master classes are part of the museum’s program. These teach how to make chocolate figures. They also cover tile creation.
The Museum of Russian Chocolate History participated in the Salon du Chocolat in Paris. This event promoted Russian chocolate production. It is a unique platform. It encourages experience exchange between chocolate makers. Both European masters and novices can connect.
The creation of the Museum of Chocolate is part of a program. It aims to revive Russian chocolate production traditions. The Russian history of chocolate includes examples of success. In the early 20th century, Russian factories held leading positions.
So, as you leave the Museum of Chocolate, remember its goal. It strives to revive traditions. It promotes Russian chocolate on the world stage. A sweet ending to our tour awaits you just around the corner.