Founded in 1990, the Museum of the Town of Shlisselburg presented its first exhibit to the public in 1997. Being one of the youngest museums in Leningrad region, it features the history of one of its oldest towns.

Back in the 14th century the Russian fortress Oreshek (Nutlet) towered above the head of the Neva River connecting Ladoga Lake with the Gulf of Finland. It was renamed Noteburg in the 17th century when under the Swedes and obtained the current name, Shlisselburg (Key-town), after being retaken by the Russians in the course of Northern War. Defense of the fortress in World War II days is another stormy period in its history.

More than 4,000 authentic objects of the museum collection including archeological findings, documents, drawings, models illustrate those times, as well as present day of the town centered around shipbuilding and ship-repairing facilities.