19th-century palaces and mansions

At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, Moscow was considered the commercial capital of Russia. Wealthy entrepreneurs actively commissioned the construction of luxurious mansions, which were not only residences but also centers of cultural life. Art exhibitions, concerts, and meetings with famous artists were held in these exquisite buildings. Let's take a tour and visit the beautiful and interesting mansions of Moscow from that era. Arseny Morozov Mansion Address: Vozdvizhenka, 16 This luxurious mansion was designed by the young architect Viktor Mazyrin, who was inspired by the Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal. The construction of the mansion caused mixed reactions at the time, and the owner's mother, Varvara Morozova, is said to have called it "the shame of all Moscow." However, decades later, the building became a cultural heritage site. After the revolution, the mansion was used by anarchists, and during the Soviet period, it became a reception house for the Russian government. Today, it attracts visitors with its unique appearance and rich history. Pavel Kharitonenko Estate Address: Sofiyskaya emb., 14 This luxurious mansion on the banks of the Moskva River was built for the "Sugar King" Pavel Kharitonenko. The architectural style combines Renaissance and Baroque, designed by architect Vladimir Zalessky, and the interior decoration was done by the young Fyodor Shekhtel. Music salons were held here, with participants including Chaliapin and Scriabin. After the revolution, the estate became the residence of the British ambassador, and celebrities such as Winston Churchill and Elizabeth II stayed here. Today, the mansion still retains its importance as a historical and diplomatic site. Nikolai Vtorov Mansion ("Spaso House") Address: Spasopeskovsky per., 10 The owner of this neoclassical mansion was Nikolai Vtorov, one of the largest entrepreneurs in Russia in the early 20th century. The mansion is known for its exquisite interior decoration: huge crystal chandeliers, expensive decorative materials, and spacious reception halls. After Vtorov was assassinated in 1918, the house became the residence of the US ambassador. Its history is closely linked to important international events of the 20th century. Perzova House Address: Prechistenskaya embankment, 32 This unique residential building is designed in a modernist style with elements of Russian architecture. Its facade is decorated with colorful tiles, reminiscent of fairytale towers. Designed by architect Sergey Malakhov, the house was not only a residential building but also a cultural center that brought together many artists and writers. Ryabushinsky Mansion Address: Malaya Nikitskaya Street, 6 The famous architect Fyodor Shekhtel designed this house for the merchant Stepan Ryabushinsky. The interior of the mansion is stunning with its symbolic decoration: stained glass windows, a modernist curved staircase, mosaics, and statues. Today, it is the Maxim Gorky Museum. Conclusion A tour of Moscow's mansions is an opportunity to immerse yourself in an era when Moscow was the center of Russian cultural and social life. These houses not only retain their beauty but also tell stories related to great people and historical events. Visit these palaces and mansions, feel the atmosphere of a bygone era, and be inspired by their greatness.