Founded in 1923, The Vologda History, Architecture and Art Museum Complex is one of the largest cultural centres in the North of Russia. More than 40 architectural monuments make up the complex, which houses displays and exhibitions on a wide variety of themes: art, literature, history, science, and ethnology to name but a few. The museums have over 40, 000 exhibits, including unique works of old Russian painting, drawings, ancient manuscripts, coins and archeological materials. As well as the permanent display, the museums organise over 40 exhibitions every year, many of which are lent to other museums all over Europe. There are 80 different excursions around the exhibits available, as well as tours, either by bus or on foot, around the town itself.