In the early 18th century, Peter I ordered the collection of ancient artillery pieces in Saint Petersburg to immortalize their glory. He approved the construction project of an armory, which he named "Zeughaus." Under his direction, the collection was expanded over the centuries and eventually became the largest military-historical museum in the world.

Today, this institution is officially called the "Military-Historical Museum of Artillery, Engineer Troops, and Signal Troops," but it is often referred to as the "Artillery Museum" by the public. Its exhibition features 850,000 unique exhibits, some of which date back to the 14th century.

The history of the museum's creation began in the Peter and Paul Fortress of Saint Petersburg on August 29, 1703. Initially, the Zeughaus was wooden, but it was later built from brick. The first exhibit was a bronze mortar created in 1605 by masters Andrei Chokhov and Proney Fyodorov. By Peter's order, both domestic and trophy artillery samples were brought to the capital.

Peter I personally evaluated the first pieces for the museum and even refused to use them for army needs during difficult times. As a result, new pieces had to be cast from church bells.

Over time, the collection expanded, and not only artillery but also other types of weapons, military equipment, uniforms, awards, and banners began to be brought to Saint Petersburg.

In the 1770s, the collection was moved to a three-story arsenal building on Liteiny Avenue, constructed by Prince G.G. Orlov. This storage facility was named the "Memorable Hall."

By the end of the 18th century, the collection numbered about 6,000 items and was considered the richest in the world. Access to it was strictly limited, but on June 1, 1808, the hall opened to all, becoming the Artillery Museum.

By the 1860s, the number of exhibits increased to 10,000, stored in 19 halls of the arsenal. However, in 1864, the building was transferred to the Ministry of Justice, and the collection found itself in unsuitable conditions. In 1868, thanks to the efforts of Emperor Alexander II, the exhibition was relocated to the Kronverk Arsenal of the Peter and Paul Fortress.

The museum became known as the "Artillery Historical Museum" and actively participated in international exhibitions, gaining high authority.

During World War I, the collection was supplemented with new trophies, but during the revolution, some exhibits were lost. Despite this, a significant part of the collection was preserved. During the Great Patriotic War, the museum acquired new exhibits.

Since the 1960s, the museum expanded with new funds and was renamed the "Military-Historical Museum of Artillery, Engineer Troops, and Signal Troops."

Today, the museum has an extensive collection of artillery pieces, firearms, cold weapons, engineering equipment, communication means, military uniforms, and other items. In 13 halls covering a total area of 17,000 square meters, works of art dedicated to military themes and works by famous battle painters are presented.

The museum's collection is an important part of Russia's cultural and historical heritage.