History of Science and Engineering Annotation << Back Introduction A.A. Komar Introductory article depicts the history of Physical Institute organization, starting from its ancient history, going to Physical Chamber in the Academy of Sciences of Peter the Great, and re-creation in the new time in the form of Lebedev Physical Institute. Academician S.Vavilov was the main figure in organization of the new institute and definition of its broad physical profile. His role was also decisive in invitation of country outstanding scientists to lead the main institute laboratories. This well reasoned choice of the leading figure in the institute helped greatly in the quick development of scientific research and appearance of a number of first class achievements. After the 2-d world war institute’s personnel started to grow, number of laboratories greatly increased. Article gives information how changed institute directors, describes the new structure of the institute. During the article the recommendations are given which articles in this issue deserve special attention. Key words: optics, solid state physics, cosmic rays, nuclear physics, elementary particle physics, theoretical physics. komar@sci.lebedev.ru