The Pskov State Museum occupies several historic buildings in the centre of the old city and covers the full sweep of Pskovian history — from the medieval republic and its distinctive architecture through the Russian imperial period to the German occupation of 1941–44. The archaeological collections are particularly strong, with finds from excavations of the Krom and the surrounding medieval city.
The fine arts section includes a good collection of Pskovian icons — a distinct local school that developed its own character between the 14th and 16th centuries, characterised by deep red and green tones and a directness of expression that differs markedly from Novgorodian and Muscovite painting. Even if you have limited time, the icon collection alone is worth a visit.