History is beside us
We have gathered fascinating information for you about the history and residents of the streets, apartments, and attractions near our addresses
Rubinstein Street
A Brief History of Interesting Places on the Street and Our Apartments
The essence and character of a street can be described in various ways. For some, it is associated with great names, for others with vibrant youth, for some with childhood memories, the Soviet Union, art, and for a few, with chaos and debauchery. Rubinstein Street divides St. Petersburg into two parts: the grand and the one depicted by Dostoevsky. There are those who actively participate in the life of the street's restaurants, and there are those who do everything to erase the aforementioned association with its name.
Rubinstein Street is incredibly diverse despite its relatively short length, and that, I believe, is its charm. In its early days, it was a narrow path, an alley, and only later became a full-fledged street. Initially, there were wooden houses here, with their own smallholdings. This was in the 18th century when there were even chickens, goats, and the alley was named after Golovin. Towards the end of the century, it acquired another name associated with the courtyard of the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius - Troitsky Pereulok, and a little later, Troitskaya Street. In 1812, a catastrophic fire destroyed a significant part of the shady side of Nevsky Prospekt. The burnt area turned out to be incredibly attractive for new development, and the street began to take on the appearance you see today.
During the time of Leningrad, Anton Grigorievich Rubinstein lived in House No. 38, and it is in his honor that the street bears its name today. It is said that in 1929, the composer's surname was chosen for the street simply to avoid any religious connotations.
During the time of Leningrad, Anton Grigorievich Rubinstein lived in House No. 38, and it is in his honor that the street bears its name today. It is said that in 1929, the composer's surname was chosen for the street simply to avoid any religious connotations.
History Lives in Names
Have you noticed House No. 7, which astonishingly stands out from the external image of St. Petersburg? Here's the story: In 1929, as part of the "struggle against old customs," the developers implemented the project of the House-Commune for engineers and writers, also known as the infamous "tear of socialism." Olga Berggolts, a resident of the house and a writer, recalled the life there: "I looked at our house; it was the most absurd house in Leningrad... We, its initiators and tenants, were commonly referred to as 'teardrops.' We, a group of young (very young!) engineers and writers, built it together in the early 1930s in a resolute struggle against the 'old way of life' (kitchens and cradles!), so not a single apartment had a kitchen, not even a corner for cooking. There weren't even individual front entrances with coat racks — the coat rack was communal, downstairs, and on the first floor, there was a communal children's room and a communal rest area: we had decided during preliminary meetings that we would only rest collectively, without any individualism."
In short, a building with 52 apartments, a cafeteria for 200 people on the ground floor, and a children's room quickly started leaking from within, turning from a socialist dream into a tear.
Have you noticed House No. 7, which astonishingly stands out from the external image of St. Petersburg? Here's the story: In 1929, as part of the "struggle against old customs," the developers implemented the project of the House-Commune for engineers and writers, also known as the infamous "tear of socialism." Olga Berggolts, a resident of the house and a writer, recalled the life there: "I looked at our house; it was the most absurd house in Leningrad... We, its initiators and tenants, were commonly referred to as 'teardrops.' We, a group of young (very young!) engineers and writers, built it together in the early 1930s in a resolute struggle against the 'old way of life' (kitchens and cradles!), so not a single apartment had a kitchen, not even a corner for cooking. There weren't even individual front entrances with coat racks — the coat rack was communal, downstairs, and on the first floor, there was a communal children's room and a communal rest area: we had decided during preliminary meetings that we would only rest collectively, without any individualism."
In short, a building with 52 apartments, a cafeteria for 200 people on the ground floor, and a children's room quickly started leaking from within, turning from a socialist dream into a tear.
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We moved into our house with enthusiasm, ... and even the incredibly unattractive exterior of the "Corbusian" building with a multitude of tall, tiny iron cage balconies didn't bother us. The extreme poverty of its architecture seemed to us like a special "austerity" that matched the new way of life...
- Run and get some vodka. Buy six bottles. There will be some change left - get something for snacks. Maybe some smoked cod. Or some other kind of crap.
Ten years pass. I'm walking down the street. I see a queue. And it stretches from the corner of Nevsky and Rubinstein all the way to Fontanka. I ask, "What are they giving out?"
In response, I hear:
"What do you mean? Hot smoked cod!"
S. Dovlatov, "Solo on the Underwood"
Ten years pass. I'm walking down the street. I see a queue. And it stretches from the corner of Nevsky and Rubinstein all the way to Fontanka. I ask, "What are they giving out?"
In response, I hear:
"What do you mean? Hot smoked cod!"
S. Dovlatov, "Solo on the Underwood"
Nationality - Leningrader. By patronymic - "from the Neva."
From 1944 to 1972, Sergei Dovlatov lived in House No. 23, and now there is a monument to him nearby. There is also a monument to Glasha, the writer's beloved fox terrier. He lived, of course, in an intellectual and densely populated communal apartment with its quirks. It is said that the writer used to stroll along the street in slippers and a robe. There are many Dovlatov-related places in St. Petersburg, including Mokhovaya Street, where a famous beer stall was located, and where we also have wonderful apartments. By the way, in the last building on the street, near Nevsky Prospekt, there was a store called "Okean" (Ocean), and through Dovlatov's efforts, the street came to be named Rybinshteina.
From 1944 to 1972, Sergei Dovlatov lived in House No. 23, and now there is a monument to him nearby. There is also a monument to Glasha, the writer's beloved fox terrier. He lived, of course, in an intellectual and densely populated communal apartment with its quirks. It is said that the writer used to stroll along the street in slippers and a robe. There are many Dovlatov-related places in St. Petersburg, including Mokhovaya Street, where a famous beer stall was located, and where we also have wonderful apartments. By the way, in the last building on the street, near Nevsky Prospekt, there was a store called "Okean" (Ocean), and through Dovlatov's efforts, the street came to be named Rybinshteina.
Russian Book Society "Deyatel"
The history of the street can be talked about endlessly. Troitskaya Street invited people to hideouts, theaters, luxurious shops, amateur houses of creativity and culture. Chernyshevsky wrote "What is to be done?" here, Dostoevsky wrote "The Brothers Karamazov." The residents of Leningrad came here illegally to exchange precious metals, visit a café-automat, attend family counseling, and try the first pizza. Every building is steeped in the incredible history of the creation, life, and upbringing of the street and the city.
Our house number is 26. Its history begins in 1822 according to the design by Ludwig Charlemagne, at Troitskaya Street, 26. In 1873, O.F. Fontana reconstructed the building.
We would like to dwell on the word "parade." In income houses, there were always two staircases: the parade staircase and the back staircase. In the novel "Poor Folk," Fyodor Dostoevsky provided a wonderful description of these two staircases.
One was described as "clean, bright, wide, all iron and red wood," while the other was "winding, damp, dirty, with broken steps and walls so greasy that your hand sticks to them when you lean on them. Each landing is filled with chests, broken chairs, and cabinets, rags hanging, windows shattered; buckets are filled with all sorts of filth, dirt, shame, eggshells, and fish bladders; the smell is bad... in short, it's unpleasant." We are very pleased that the parade of the building on Rubinstein Street has preserved its original features: a huge entrance door, elegant stucco molding, and tiles in the Art Nouveau style. Excursions and photo shoots are conducted here.
It is known that at different times, the building housed a small shop, a leather workshop, a tailor's workshop, a men's hat workshop, a tobacco shop, a courier cooperative, the editorial offices of the "Sankt-Peterburgskie Vedomosti" and "Khudozhnik" magazines, and a society of factory owners and manufacturers.
During the renovation, bricked-up doors were discovered in the walls, which were originally passages between rooms according to the original enfilade layout. These doors have been restored and now serve you inside the apartments. Before the renovation, the apartment was a typical communal living space with a layout called "a comb" or "a hairpin": a long corridor and several rooms on both sides. Some of our apartments have historically restored fireplaces.
Our house number is 26. Its history begins in 1822 according to the design by Ludwig Charlemagne, at Troitskaya Street, 26. In 1873, O.F. Fontana reconstructed the building.
We would like to dwell on the word "parade." In income houses, there were always two staircases: the parade staircase and the back staircase. In the novel "Poor Folk," Fyodor Dostoevsky provided a wonderful description of these two staircases.
One was described as "clean, bright, wide, all iron and red wood," while the other was "winding, damp, dirty, with broken steps and walls so greasy that your hand sticks to them when you lean on them. Each landing is filled with chests, broken chairs, and cabinets, rags hanging, windows shattered; buckets are filled with all sorts of filth, dirt, shame, eggshells, and fish bladders; the smell is bad... in short, it's unpleasant." We are very pleased that the parade of the building on Rubinstein Street has preserved its original features: a huge entrance door, elegant stucco molding, and tiles in the Art Nouveau style. Excursions and photo shoots are conducted here.
It is known that at different times, the building housed a small shop, a leather workshop, a tailor's workshop, a men's hat workshop, a tobacco shop, a courier cooperative, the editorial offices of the "Sankt-Peterburgskie Vedomosti" and "Khudozhnik" magazines, and a society of factory owners and manufacturers.
During the renovation, bricked-up doors were discovered in the walls, which were originally passages between rooms according to the original enfilade layout. These doors have been restored and now serve you inside the apartments. Before the renovation, the apartment was a typical communal living space with a layout called "a comb" or "a hairpin": a long corridor and several rooms on both sides. Some of our apartments have historically restored fireplaces.
Doors found during renovation
Fireplace in Apartment #6 before restoration
Fireplace in Apartment #7 before restoration
Fontanka River
A few words about the embankment and interior details of the apartments, as well as personal notes
Being close to Rubinsteina Street, it is impossible to resist taking a stroll along the charming Fontanka River embankment in St. Petersburg! The river stretches for 7 and a half kilometers, surrounded by buildings that embody the city's heritage. Fondly cherished by the people of St. Petersburg, the Fontanka River encapsulates strength, beauty, and spaciousness. While some may find it mundane, for others, it holds great significance. Fontanka is a symbol of the city, and it's hard to argue with that.
Without abruptly changing the topic to Fontanka, let's focus on a building that occupies a unique position on both Rubinsteina Street and Fontanka simultaneously - the Tolstovsky House (15-17 Rubinsteina Street, 54 Fontanka Embankment). The dates of construction are inscribed above the arches that connect three different courtyards. The building was designed by Fyodor (Frederik) Lidval, who studied at the Saint Petersburg Stieglitz State Academy of Art and Design and the Imperial Academy of Arts under the guidance of Benois himself. The house was commissioned by Major General Count Mikhail Pavlovich Tolstoy, the great-nephew of the hero of the Patriotic War, a general of infantry, and a recipient of all the Russian orders, Peter Aleksandrovich Tolstoy.
"The Fontanka Canal! It's such an abyss of wooden barges that you can't comprehend where it all fits. On the bridges, there are women with wet gingerbread cookies and rotten apples, and they are all dirty, wet women. It's dull to walk along the Fontanka!"
- Fyodor Dostoevsky
- Fyodor Dostoevsky
In the building, according to the plan, various social classes were meant to reside, so there were both small apartments and luxurious chambers. Films such as "Gangster Petersburg," "Winter Cherry," "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson," and many others were shot here. Arkady Averchenko and Alexander Kuprin, the director of the Mikhailovsky Theater Vladimir Kekhman and ballerina Irina Kolpakova, artist Mikhail Shemyakin and poet Evgeny Rein, conductor Mariss Jansons and athlete Tatyana Zats, and singer Eduard Khil all lived in the Tolstoy House!
Passing through the courtyards of the Tolstoy House, we reach the Fontanka Embankment or the embankment of the Fontanka River - it varied. It's different for all of us on the Fontanka! One can spend a lot of time exploring the embankment as it houses the Summer Garden and the Summer Palace. You can make a wish at the Chizhik-Pyzhik statue or visit the Chinizelli Circus or the Youth Theater on the Fontanka. The Faberge Museum often hosts unique and rare exhibitions, and in the mysterious Engineer's Castle, one can catch a glimpse of the ghost of the murdered emperor.
On the Fontanka, we have apartments in both dark and light tones. Our designer, Natalia Popandopulo, explains:
"In the dark apartments, both bedrooms were so narrow that a regular bed wouldn't fit. We couldn't change the layout, so we built a bed on a podium, and now, whoever wakes up on it sees the river as the first thing in the morning. You can lie on the soft mattress for a long time and admire the passing boats.
The upper step of the podium is upholstered with a soft panel and serves as additional seating. In the Fontanka apartment, there was a lot of IKEA furniture and little time for renovations. We repainted almost all the modular furniture from IKEA and added modern metal chairs to the dining area. And above the kitchen, my favorite technique for quick space revitalization is hanging a gallery of paintings.
In the light-toned apartments, we acquired an antique buffet filled with vintage tableware, creating a light countryside atmosphere. By the way, in this apartment, in addition to the beautifully set tableware by Julia Chistyakova, we also have dishes from the collaboration between Julia Vysotskaya and the Imperial Porcelain Factory."
Passing through the courtyards of the Tolstoy House, we reach the Fontanka Embankment or the embankment of the Fontanka River - it varied. It's different for all of us on the Fontanka! One can spend a lot of time exploring the embankment as it houses the Summer Garden and the Summer Palace. You can make a wish at the Chizhik-Pyzhik statue or visit the Chinizelli Circus or the Youth Theater on the Fontanka. The Faberge Museum often hosts unique and rare exhibitions, and in the mysterious Engineer's Castle, one can catch a glimpse of the ghost of the murdered emperor.
On the Fontanka, we have apartments in both dark and light tones. Our designer, Natalia Popandopulo, explains:
"In the dark apartments, both bedrooms were so narrow that a regular bed wouldn't fit. We couldn't change the layout, so we built a bed on a podium, and now, whoever wakes up on it sees the river as the first thing in the morning. You can lie on the soft mattress for a long time and admire the passing boats.
The upper step of the podium is upholstered with a soft panel and serves as additional seating. In the Fontanka apartment, there was a lot of IKEA furniture and little time for renovations. We repainted almost all the modular furniture from IKEA and added modern metal chairs to the dining area. And above the kitchen, my favorite technique for quick space revitalization is hanging a gallery of paintings.
In the light-toned apartments, we acquired an antique buffet filled with vintage tableware, creating a light countryside atmosphere. By the way, in this apartment, in addition to the beautifully set tableware by Julia Chistyakova, we also have dishes from the collaboration between Julia Vysotskaya and the Imperial Porcelain Factory."
From personal and the beloved person's notes:
"I'm running to work in the apartment on the Fontanka. Near the Gorokhovaya Street I have 3% battery left on my phone. The Bryantsev Youth Theatre is visible in the distance, the green light is on. I step onto Semenovsky Bridge, running late for a meeting. I gaze at the embankment and realize how much I love it. Unfortunately and fortunately, my phone died on the way, and I thought, 'Well, now I don't have to respond to anyone.' And I look towards the Trinity Cathedral, at the white pedestrian bridge.
This bridge is the best place on earth. White, wooden, without cars, on the Fontanka. Once, I sat on it in the summer and felt like a mountain, beautiful, free. I was the air at its peak, knocking people off their feet, refreshing. And I was in a hurry, thinking, 'How magically one can fall in love in St. Petersburg in June, walk on this bridge, sit on it all night.' Couples passed by. The dome of the Trinity Cathedral shimmered under the pink sky. I got up from the bridge, and the first thing I saw was a party in a window overlooking the bridge. Girls were drinking red wine from glasses and looking down. A bicycle was riding on the lone bike path in the center.
In the apartment on the Fontanka, the neighbors upstairs played the piano for several hours. The music was so clear that the bay windows seemed like a theater box. I felt a strong desire to dance!"
"I'm running to work in the apartment on the Fontanka. Near the Gorokhovaya Street I have 3% battery left on my phone. The Bryantsev Youth Theatre is visible in the distance, the green light is on. I step onto Semenovsky Bridge, running late for a meeting. I gaze at the embankment and realize how much I love it. Unfortunately and fortunately, my phone died on the way, and I thought, 'Well, now I don't have to respond to anyone.' And I look towards the Trinity Cathedral, at the white pedestrian bridge.
This bridge is the best place on earth. White, wooden, without cars, on the Fontanka. Once, I sat on it in the summer and felt like a mountain, beautiful, free. I was the air at its peak, knocking people off their feet, refreshing. And I was in a hurry, thinking, 'How magically one can fall in love in St. Petersburg in June, walk on this bridge, sit on it all night.' Couples passed by. The dome of the Trinity Cathedral shimmered under the pink sky. I got up from the bridge, and the first thing I saw was a party in a window overlooking the bridge. Girls were drinking red wine from glasses and looking down. A bicycle was riding on the lone bike path in the center.
In the apartment on the Fontanka, the neighbors upstairs played the piano for several hours. The music was so clear that the bay windows seemed like a theater box. I felt a strong desire to dance!"
Mokhovaya Street
The Story of Street and House No. 25, Dovlatov, and Bob Marley
Perhaps Mokhovaya seems unremarkable: a narrow street with almost no grandeur. Here, one can easily be deceived! Here, there was a series of our "firsts" and "never agains," which is why we earnestly and incredibly tenderly ask you, dear guests, to spend your time here eagerly, wholeheartedly, honestly, and beautifully!
The street holds within itself the lives and destinies of the greatest individuals, important events, amusing conversations, and, oh, believe me, the love of all St. Petersburg residents for the city. Currently, it is where artists and musicians are emerging, and the student life is bustling. I dare to say that it is precisely in this part of the city that those who are typically envisioned as true residents of St. Petersburg dwell, labor, drink, and work.
First, I suggest that you learn a little more about Mokhovaya, or rather, Khamovaya as it was called before.
First, I suggest that you learn a little more about Mokhovaya, or rather, Khamovaya as it was called before.
During the years 1710-1720, the term "Khamovniki" referred to weavers who primarily produced fabrics and sails. Peter the Great, as he liked to do, sent Russian weavers abroad to learn the craft, and upon their return, he settled them specifically on Khamovskaya Street. The street, as it is today, ran from Belinsky Street to Tchaikovsky Street (by the way, we also have apartments on Tchaikovsky Street!). The first residents of Mokhova Street were not only weavers but also soldiers and officers of the Semyonovsky and Preobrazhensky regiments. Here, the servants of the palace administration lived: cooks, bakers, brewers, and kvass makers. Next to them resided the first builders of St. Petersburg. As time went on, the street grew, and by the end of the 18th century, various sections were owned by the Stroganovs, Vorontsovs, and Skavronskys. Initially, the street was called Khamovaya or Khamovskaya, but there were also other names: Makhovaya, Makhavaya, and The First Mokhovaya. What happened to the name, we do not know: whether the aristocracy rebelled or it was difficult to pronounce - in any case, it is now called Mokhovaya Street. The street brought together everything typical of St. Petersburg: sailmakers living next to soldiers, bakers, and workers of drinking establishments. The arriving aristocracy and intelligentsia transformed everything according to their own taste. And, of course, the entire history of the street was eventually polished by art. A classic example!
"A beer stall, painted with green paint, stood on the corner of Belinsky Street and Mokhovaya. The line stretched along the lawn all the way to the food distribution building. People crowded around the counter, pressed against each other. Further on, the crowd gradually thinned out. In the end, it dispersed into a dozen gloomy, closed-off figures. Men in gray jackets and greatcoats stood there, stern and indifferent, as if by a stranger's grave. Some of them held canisters and teapots. There were few women in the crowd, five or six. They behaved more loudly and impatiently. One of them shouted something mysterious:
'Let me through out of respect for the old mother!'
Having reached their goal, people stepped aside, anticipating bliss. Gray foam flew onto the lawn." - S.D. Dovlatov
'Let me through out of respect for the old mother!'
Having reached their goal, people stepped aside, anticipating bliss. Gray foam flew onto the lawn." - S.D. Dovlatov
To abstain from drinking means to insult what God created for joy. Leningrad Stories.
Not that we agree with the title's name, but there was indeed plenty of fun on the street! On the corner of Belinsky Street and Mokhovaya Street, there was a remarkable drinking establishment that was known throughout the city! Perhaps you remember Dovlatov's "Driver's Gloves"? It precisely describes a beer stall on the corner of Belinsky Street and Mokhovaya Street. (By the way, Sergey Dovlatov's Leningrad beer route started from Rubinsteina Street, where he lived. And we also have apartments there!) The stall was also written about by Alexander Gorodnitsky, but it would be quite improper to quote his lines.
As it often happens, right there is also the Church of St. Simeon the God-Receiver and Anna the Prophetess. The church was founded almost at the same time as St. Petersburg, in 1712, the year of Anna's birth, the eldest daughter of Peter the Great. Surprisingly, it is not the only church on Mokhovaya Street.
Not that we agree with the title's name, but there was indeed plenty of fun on the street! On the corner of Belinsky Street and Mokhovaya Street, there was a remarkable drinking establishment that was known throughout the city! Perhaps you remember Dovlatov's "Driver's Gloves"? It precisely describes a beer stall on the corner of Belinsky Street and Mokhovaya Street. (By the way, Sergey Dovlatov's Leningrad beer route started from Rubinsteina Street, where he lived. And we also have apartments there!) The stall was also written about by Alexander Gorodnitsky, but it would be quite improper to quote his lines.
As it often happens, right there is also the Church of St. Simeon the God-Receiver and Anna the Prophetess. The church was founded almost at the same time as St. Petersburg, in 1712, the year of Anna's birth, the eldest daughter of Peter the Great. Surprisingly, it is not the only church on Mokhovaya Street.
Our apartments
Let's return to our home at 25 Mohovaya Street. There was a merchant named T.O. Turanov. In 1862, a three-story house was built for this devout owner at the corner of Mohovaya and Pestel streets. Around the same time, a small stone chapel of the Cheremenetsky Monastery was added from the side of Mohovaya Street. In the late 1870s, a new owner appeared, and according to her decree, a fourth floor was added to the building. Fortunately, many details have survived. For example, on the Pestel Street side, you can see wooden gate shutters that have remained since that time! However, in 1931, the chapel was apparently demolished. Nevertheless, its ghostly silhouette remains, visible from the Mohovaya side, slightly to the left of the entrance. It seems that our apartment was once inhabited by a whole dynasty of educated St. Petersburg residents! However, the spouse of one of the sons decided to sell the apartment. That family left us a couple of books, which are now on the shelf to the left of the television. The current owner of the apartment, who is also an interior designer, carefully left other books for you in modern bindings.
Tchaikovsky Street
The history of the street and its residents
Tchaikovsky Street in St. Petersburg stands out for its elegance and prosperity. This street truly exudes intellectualism! The headlines of its events and memorable moments were once scandalous betrayals among partners and the awarding of diplomas to various personalities from universities.
The street was laid in the first half of the 18th century on the territory of the former Foundry (Artillery) Suburb, which is why it initially received the name Artillery Street. In 1731, the Cathedral of St. Sergius of All Artillery was built here, now known as House No. 17, after which the street was named Sergievskaya. Apparently, during the union, the cathedral was dismantled.
The street was laid in the first half of the 18th century on the territory of the former Foundry (Artillery) Suburb, which is why it initially received the name Artillery Street. In 1731, the Cathedral of St. Sergius of All Artillery was built here, now known as House No. 17, after which the street was named Sergievskaya. Apparently, during the union, the cathedral was dismantled.
In House No. 1, at the Imperial School of Jurisprudence, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky studied for his cadet position. His parents also lived in the same house, in House No. 41, to the right of us.
Currently, the street extends from Potemkinskaya Street to Fontanka River. Although initially, the street only reached Kosoy Lane (now Oruzheinika Fedorova Street). Between the canal and Fontanka Embankment, there were ponds for fish breeding for the tsar, and there was also a Reserve Yard for storing supplies for the royal court.
Currently, the street extends from Potemkinskaya Street to Fontanka River. Although initially, the street only reached Kosoy Lane (now Oruzheinika Fedorova Street). Between the canal and Fontanka Embankment, there were ponds for fish breeding for the tsar, and there was also a Reserve Yard for storing supplies for the royal court.
As we delve into the history of specific houses, it gives the impression that the street was a haven for wealthy high-ranking officials and their privileged children who studied at the university, such as Tchaikovsky. These children eventually became bureaucrats.
For example, Spiransky also graduated from the same school as Tchaikovsky, House No. 32 belonged to the Counts Apraksin, and Houses 46-48 belonged to P.N. Trubetskoy. House No. 11 belonged to the Stroganovs and even had a house church! During World War I, the mansion served as a hospital for the wounded. In Soviet times, it housed the Mussorgsky Music School, followed by a technical school and university.
World War I also affected House No. 10. Interestingly, Vasily Kachmin, who supposedly gave his name to Vasilievsky Island, lived there. The mansion was originally built for Vutermina, the wife of the director of the public library. The building changed hands multiple times, and it was even owned by the Austro-Hungarian Embassy. During the early days of World War I, a crowd pelted the house with stones and set it on fire. After the revolution, prisoners of war resided in the house and used furniture as fuel for the stoves.
For example, Spiransky also graduated from the same school as Tchaikovsky, House No. 32 belonged to the Counts Apraksin, and Houses 46-48 belonged to P.N. Trubetskoy. House No. 11 belonged to the Stroganovs and even had a house church! During World War I, the mansion served as a hospital for the wounded. In Soviet times, it housed the Mussorgsky Music School, followed by a technical school and university.
World War I also affected House No. 10. Interestingly, Vasily Kachmin, who supposedly gave his name to Vasilievsky Island, lived there. The mansion was originally built for Vutermina, the wife of the director of the public library. The building changed hands multiple times, and it was even owned by the Austro-Hungarian Embassy. During the early days of World War I, a crowd pelted the house with stones and set it on fire. After the revolution, prisoners of war resided in the house and used furniture as fuel for the stoves.
From the children's book "Orchestra" by Yuri Vladimirov
Doors in House No. 40 prior to their replacement
House No. 14 was built according to the design by architect Imertsov. The building housed an arsenal. It was here that Lermontov was held during the duel case, reminding you that he was eventually exiled to the Caucasus. Saltykov-Shchedrin was also held here.
House No. 40, where our apartments are located, was originally made of wood. It was built in 1850. It is known that in 1906, using the existing building, Nikolai Klavdievich Chizhov constructed a house for his wife, Anna Dornidontovna. It was a rental house, and the Chizhov family themselves lived on the third floor. After the revolution, the house remained residential. It was home to a person with an extraordinary fate, Anatoly Gurevich, a spy. He acquired fluency in French and Spanish during his school years. Under the name Kent, Anatoly worked in Spain and France, passing information to Moscow, which led to his arrest by the Geheime Staatspolizei (Gestapo), and in 1945, he was arrested on charges of treason against his homeland. The charges were dropped only in 1991.
House No. 40, where our apartments are located, was originally made of wood. It was built in 1850. It is known that in 1906, using the existing building, Nikolai Klavdievich Chizhov constructed a house for his wife, Anna Dornidontovna. It was a rental house, and the Chizhov family themselves lived on the third floor. After the revolution, the house remained residential. It was home to a person with an extraordinary fate, Anatoly Gurevich, a spy. He acquired fluency in French and Spanish during his school years. Under the name Kent, Anatoly worked in Spain and France, passing information to Moscow, which led to his arrest by the Geheime Staatspolizei (Gestapo), and in 1945, he was arrested on charges of treason against his homeland. The charges were dropped only in 1991.
Malaya Morskaya Street
About the residents, intellectuals, literary geniuses, and photographs
Malaya Morskaya Street was one of the most bohemian streets in St. Petersburg in the past. Fashion, the center of the capital's social life, exclusive societies, poetry, hotels...
Around 1730, there was Malaya Morskaya Sloboda (a type of settlement) located here, where employees of the Maritime Office lived. Later, the street was renamed Bolshaya Lugovaya Street. This happened because Admiralteysky Meadow was located nearby. According to the laws, a fortress should be surrounded by open space, namely a meadow, for better visibility and protection in case of an attack. And Malaya Morskaya Street was at the border of this territory at that time. The street regained its original name in the 1820s. But that's not all!
In 1902, the street was named after Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his death, as he had lived for quite a long time in House No. 17. And after the dissolution of the USSR, in 1993, everything returned to its original state.
In 1902, the street was named after Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his death, as he had lived for quite a long time in House No. 17. And after the dissolution of the USSR, in 1993, everything returned to its original state.
There is nothing more burdensome than the awareness of having just committed a foolish act
As we turn from Nevsky Prospect onto Malaya Morskaya Street, we are greeted by the impressive and incredible Vavelberg Rental House, designed by architect Peretyatkovich Marian Marianovich. By the way, he also built the house at 4 Gorokhovaya Street, where our apartments are located. Previously, there were banks, savings banks, and shops here. The older generation of St. Petersburg residents remembers the "Aeroflot" ticket offices and the Air Communications Agency in this building.
Ivan Sergeyevich Turgenev lived in House No. 2. In the same house, in the 20th century, the great scientist and statesman Nikolai Ivanovich Vavilov lived until his arrest. And in that same apartment, imagine, the renowned ballet dancer Natalya Mikhailovna Dudinskaya lived.
The two-story House No. 17 was built in 1737. It is believed that there was a large and spacious hall inside that was rented out for events. The English Club, consisting of representatives of the foreign community, gathered here for five years. As mentioned before, N.B. Gogol lived in this house (at that time, it was House No. 97 in the 1830s). To enter his apartment, one had to go through the courtyard and climb the dark staircase to the third floor. The writer's apartment consisted of two rooms, one of which he used for writing at night until two candles burned out. It was here that "The Inspector General," "Nevsky Prospect," and "The Old World Landowners" were created. The address is mentioned in the play by Chlestakov: "...in the house under the number ninety-seventh, turning into the courtyard, on the third floor to the right."
Ivan Sergeyevich Turgenev lived in House No. 2. In the same house, in the 20th century, the great scientist and statesman Nikolai Ivanovich Vavilov lived until his arrest. And in that same apartment, imagine, the renowned ballet dancer Natalya Mikhailovna Dudinskaya lived.
The two-story House No. 17 was built in 1737. It is believed that there was a large and spacious hall inside that was rented out for events. The English Club, consisting of representatives of the foreign community, gathered here for five years. As mentioned before, N.B. Gogol lived in this house (at that time, it was House No. 97 in the 1830s). To enter his apartment, one had to go through the courtyard and climb the dark staircase to the third floor. The writer's apartment consisted of two rooms, one of which he used for writing at night until two candles burned out. It was here that "The Inspector General," "Nevsky Prospect," and "The Old World Landowners" were created. The address is mentioned in the play by Chlestakov: "...in the house under the number ninety-seventh, turning into the courtyard, on the third floor to the right."
Let's focus on our house, No. 19. In Apartment No. 13, the city's first photo studio was located! In the 19th century, on Malaya Morskaya Street in St. Petersburg, there was the first photo studio in Russia owned by William Carrick. It is worth mentioning that in 1860, there was a trend of bringing the intellectuals closer to the common people. Carrick and his friend, J.G. McGregor, worked on portrait photography on Morskaya Street. However, the public's attention was drawn to the works that captured Russian daily life: street scenes (coachmen and couriers) and rural scenes from the surrounding capital. If you're lucky, you can see the photographer's works at Bolshaya Morskaya Street, 35, in the museum-exhibition center called "ROSFOTO." It's amazing that our most photogenic apartment is located in the house of the first photo studio. |
"The main idea of the new interior is to preserve the atmosphere of an old St. Petersburg house. It feels as if nothing has been changed here, but modern furniture has simply been added. The grand scale of the living-dining room is emphasized by the symmetrical arrangement of ornamental plasterwork on the walls and ceiling. The apartment still retains the parquet flooring laid over a hundred years ago. To our great delight, it hardly squeaked but acquired a beautiful patina, so we decided to forgo restoration. The clients, people with a noble and restrained taste yet broad-mindedness, live in England but have strong connections to St. Petersburg and readily agreed to playful touches, such as bird heads in the bed's headboard. The kitchen in the apartment is unusual—very small and resembling more of a large niche in the corridor. However, this seemingly obvious drawback gives the apartment a certain charm and alludes to Parisian apartments where similar mini-kitchens are often found. As we know, the historical interiors of St. Petersburg apartments were often inspired by the Parisian style. The kitchen set was inherited from the previous owners and was in decent condition, so it was decided to keep it. The walls of the kitchen and the adjacent corridor were painted in a color that precisely matches the color of the kitchen fronts. This technique allowed the furniture to blend in and visually expand the kitchen, as if merging it with the corridor through color", explain designers Natalya and Konstantin Popandopulo.
Gorokhovaya Street
O tempora, o mores!
Oh, Gorokhovaya Street, as you might have guessed, is one of the most important and rich in history streets of St. Petersburg. Here, everything happened that one can imagine in the context of the country's history, the city's history, and the personal stories of its residents. Here, people worked and studied, loved and destroyed, made fortunes and went bankrupt. And they continue to do so.
This street is the birthplace, I dare say, of ingenious works, fateful encounters, and the most mysterious legends.
This street is the birthplace, I dare say, of ingenious works, fateful encounters, and the most mysterious legends.
Let's delve into history. From the Admiralty, Voznesensky Avenue, Nevsky Avenue, and Gorokhovaya Street radiate in three directions. Please take note of the image of the trident - the main "perspectives" of St. Petersburg.
Up until the 1760s, we would have welcomed you to Middle Perspective. However, at that time, a certain merchant named Garrakh settled here. He served under Peter the Great, although why the emperor needed a German entrepreneur specifically, we do not know. Garrakh opened his shop, and the city's residents quickly associated it with the street. His foreign-sounding surname was adapted to a more familiar manner: "Gorokh", which ultimately led to the renaming of the street to Gorokhovaya. But that is just one of the legends. After the revolution of 1917, the street was given a different name - Komissarskaya, and later it was renamed Dzerzhinskaya.
Up until the 1760s, we would have welcomed you to Middle Perspective. However, at that time, a certain merchant named Garrakh settled here. He served under Peter the Great, although why the emperor needed a German entrepreneur specifically, we do not know. Garrakh opened his shop, and the city's residents quickly associated it with the street. His foreign-sounding surname was adapted to a more familiar manner: "Gorokh", which ultimately led to the renaming of the street to Gorokhovaya. But that is just one of the legends. After the revolution of 1917, the street was given a different name - Komissarskaya, and later it was renamed Dzerzhinskaya.
The intersection of Gorokhovaya and Malaya Morskaya streets is rich in legends about almost everyone imaginable. In building 8/13, lived and passed away none other than Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky himself. There are rumors that after the premiere of his Sixth Symphony, the composer was poisoned with water at a restaurant on Nevsky Avenue. Another version suggests that envious classmates or fellow students (you can choose one) intentionally poisoned him. However, Pyotr Ilyich was not the only one to make a "musical" contribution to the street.
Across from our building, Mikhail Glinka's mother used to live. They say it was there that the opera "Ruslan and Lyudmila" began its journey
Across from our building, Mikhail Glinka's mother used to live. They say it was there that the opera "Ruslan and Lyudmila" began its journey
It would be unforgivable not to mention the author of the aforementioned poem. Alexander Sergeyevich, of course, also made his mark here. (By the way, in the building of our apartments on Srednyaya Podyacheskaya Street, his father-in-law, comrade, and faithful friend, A.S. Griboedov, lived). Do you remember the list of his ladies? Yes, he encountered many of them right here. As we know, the poet derived pleasure not only from "women's legs" but also from card games. In building No. 5, at Luka Zhemchuzhnikov's gambling establishment, Pushkin lost 24,800 rubles, which was an exorbitant and indecent sum of money in those times!
Gambling inclinations do not end with debts but find their reflection in his works. In building 10, once lived the indescribably beautiful N.P. Golitsyna, or the princess "Musash" in her old age, or the prototype of the old countess from "The Queen of Spades."
By the way, many characters from Dostoevsky, Goncharov, Chernyshevsky, and many others also lived on Gorokhovaya Street. Returning to the genius of Russian literature, you might recall the story of his demise. It seems that he also met Dantes on Gorokhovaya Street, across from Tchaikovsky's house.
By the way, many characters from Dostoevsky, Goncharov, Chernyshevsky, and many others also lived on Gorokhovaya Street. Returning to the genius of Russian literature, you might recall the story of his demise. It seems that he also met Dantes on Gorokhovaya Street, across from Tchaikovsky's house.
"My life in Petersburg is neither here nor there. The cares of life prevent me from being bored. But I lack leisure, the free bachelor's life necessary for a writer. I revolve in society, my wife is in high fashion — all of this requires money, money that I acquire through my labors, and labors require solitude." - A.S. Pushkin
Have you paid attention to the relief and details of the building where our house is located?
Let's get back to the topic of the trident. So, on one of the streets of the maritime symbol, I'm talking about Gorokhovaya, a certain Marian Marianovich Peretyatkovich became the architect of the building, which later came into the possession of the insurance company "Salamandra." The company was engaged in fire insurance. Amazing coincidences, isn't it?
Before that, in 1762, a certain Johann Belert laid the first floors of a 4-story building on Gorokhovaya, and then the building was passed down to his children and grandchildren, with additional floors being added until 1903. In 1918, the building belonged to the Cheka, and one can only imagine what took place here, which was terrifying.
Lizards and flowing female silhouettes are depicted on the house. This is associated with mysticism, the insurance company, and art!
In our house, Anna Pavlova and her student Galina Ulanova lived! The contribution of these ballet artists to the culture is indescribable! You can watch Galina Ulanova's performance in our house at the following link.
Let's get back to the topic of the trident. So, on one of the streets of the maritime symbol, I'm talking about Gorokhovaya, a certain Marian Marianovich Peretyatkovich became the architect of the building, which later came into the possession of the insurance company "Salamandra." The company was engaged in fire insurance. Amazing coincidences, isn't it?
Before that, in 1762, a certain Johann Belert laid the first floors of a 4-story building on Gorokhovaya, and then the building was passed down to his children and grandchildren, with additional floors being added until 1903. In 1918, the building belonged to the Cheka, and one can only imagine what took place here, which was terrifying.
Lizards and flowing female silhouettes are depicted on the house. This is associated with mysticism, the insurance company, and art!
In our house, Anna Pavlova and her student Galina Ulanova lived! The contribution of these ballet artists to the culture is indescribable! You can watch Galina Ulanova's performance in our house at the following link.
Our designer, Natalia Popandopulo, hasn't forgotten about the ballet heritage of the house. Retro posters of ballet performances adorn one of the apartment walls. Due to the window layout in the apartment, it was not possible to create a separate bedroom, so the bed is hidden behind a partition made of glass blocks, which were popular during the Soviet era. This gave rise to the idea of combining several eras that the house has witnessed in its interior design. The window frames are reminiscent of traditional interiors from the early 20th century, while the dresser, glass blocks, and chairs reflect the mid-century style. The sofa, bed, and armchair, on the other hand, feature sleek modern forms.
Srednyaya Podyacheskaya Street
"The Russian literature has merged with reality to such an extent that when one thinks of St. Petersburg now, it is impossible to distinguish the imagined from the genuinely existing." - Joseph Brodsky.
Let's begin the narrative with this quote by Brodsky, as you live in an unremarkable-looking building that has been talked about for decades! It's unlikely that just passing by, we would pay any attention to it at all - a typical classical building in the center of Petersburg with nothing extraordinary about it. Oh, and as always, this house, located at 25 Rimsky-Korsakov Avenue, 104 Griboedov Canal Embankment, 15A Srednyaya Podyacheskaya Street, seems to hold almost epochal significance.
With a sinking heart and a nervous tremor, he went up to a huge house which on one side looked on to the canal, and on the other into the street. This house was let out in tiny tenements and was inhabited by working people of all kinds—tailors, locksmiths, cooks, Germans of sorts, girls picking up a living as best they could, petty clerks, &c. There was a continual coming and going through the two gates and in the two courtyards of the house. Three or four door-keepers were employed on the building.
The young man ... slipped unnoticed through the door on the right, and up the staircase. It was a back staircase, dark and narrow...
"If I am so scared now, what would it be if it somehow came to pass that I were really going to do it?" he could not help asking himself as he reached the fourth storey.
- "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky
The young man ... slipped unnoticed through the door on the right, and up the staircase. It was a back staircase, dark and narrow...
"If I am so scared now, what would it be if it somehow came to pass that I were really going to do it?" he could not help asking himself as he reached the fourth storey.
- "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Not everyone would agree that the old moneylender was murdered in this particular house, but its description from Dostoevsky's novel fits very well.
Let's go back in time to the year 1739 when the street was founded. By the way, Podyacheskaya Street (there are three parts: Small, Middle, and Big) is one of the few streets that have retained their name since the very beginning. "Podyachiy" refers to petty officials, scribes, and clerks. Perhaps you have taken a stroll around and noticed that there are two wells near the house, which is also mentioned in "Crime and Punishment," as the old woman lived in the second narrow courtyard. And it is 730 steps to Raskolnikov's house. If you try to verify it, the address is Civil Street, 19.
Let's go back in time to the year 1739 when the street was founded. By the way, Podyacheskaya Street (there are three parts: Small, Middle, and Big) is one of the few streets that have retained their name since the very beginning. "Podyachiy" refers to petty officials, scribes, and clerks. Perhaps you have taken a stroll around and noticed that there are two wells near the house, which is also mentioned in "Crime and Punishment," as the old woman lived in the second narrow courtyard. And it is 730 steps to Raskolnikov's house. If you try to verify it, the address is Civil Street, 19.
Designer Natalia Popandopulo's comments
Sensibly, thoughtfully, deliberately
The history of the design begins with the paintings that are present in the apartment. These are paintings featuring two girls and monkeys. It is the color palette of these paintings that forms the basis of the entire interior. The owners of the apartment are also the owners of the antique gallery Le Connaisseur in Moscow.
The layout was modified to accommodate a dresser in the bedroom. It was of great importance to the designer, Natalia Popandopulo, as it perfectly matched the color scheme. Additionally, the bedroom doors were relocated to be near the windows, allowing more light and space to flow into the living room when they are open. The Thinker statue is very heavy, and Natalia created a museum-like pedestal to imitate its display.
The apartment owner also suggested using tiles around the fireplace, which were happily incorporated into the beautiful interior composition.
The layout was modified to accommodate a dresser in the bedroom. It was of great importance to the designer, Natalia Popandopulo, as it perfectly matched the color scheme. Additionally, the bedroom doors were relocated to be near the windows, allowing more light and space to flow into the living room when they are open. The Thinker statue is very heavy, and Natalia created a museum-like pedestal to imitate its display.
The apartment owner also suggested using tiles around the fireplace, which were happily incorporated into the beautiful interior composition.
6-Sovetskaya
The district of Sovetskaya streets, also known as Peski, bordered by Nevsky Prospekt and the Neva River, has a number of interesting names and stories. Even before the foundation of St. Petersburg, there was a sandy ridge here, which, due to its natural features, made the Peski district the highest point in the city and never flooded during floods.
In general, Peski began to be populated in the 18th century mainly by craftsmen and merchants, which is why many names of the district are associated with them. For example, Telezhnaya Street got its name because there were shops selling carts and wheels. The name Sovetskaya was given to them, presumably not immediately. Initially, the streets were called Rozhdestvenskaya (Christmas). (By the way, there are currently active disputes about restoring their original names.)
From the 1720s, at the intersection of the present-day 6 Sovetskaya Street and Krasnoborskiy Lane, there was a wooden church. By 1737, it was dismantled. In 1752-1753, a new wooden church was built to replace the old one for the resettled officials of the "Office for the Construction of Houses and Gardens," which oversaw the construction of palaces and court buildings during the first half-century of St. Petersburg's existence. However, the rapid population growth of Peski soon required a larger church. The Church of the Nativity of Christ in Peski was laid on September 18, 1781. From 1781 to 1789, a three-altar stone church was built here on the square, which subsequently received the name Rozhdestvenskaya Square. It was demolished in 1934, and a square was arranged in its place. The church was reconstructed between 2017 and 2020 on its historical foundation. The church is literally around the corner from our apartments.
In general, Peski began to be populated in the 18th century mainly by craftsmen and merchants, which is why many names of the district are associated with them. For example, Telezhnaya Street got its name because there were shops selling carts and wheels. The name Sovetskaya was given to them, presumably not immediately. Initially, the streets were called Rozhdestvenskaya (Christmas). (By the way, there are currently active disputes about restoring their original names.)
From the 1720s, at the intersection of the present-day 6 Sovetskaya Street and Krasnoborskiy Lane, there was a wooden church. By 1737, it was dismantled. In 1752-1753, a new wooden church was built to replace the old one for the resettled officials of the "Office for the Construction of Houses and Gardens," which oversaw the construction of palaces and court buildings during the first half-century of St. Petersburg's existence. However, the rapid population growth of Peski soon required a larger church. The Church of the Nativity of Christ in Peski was laid on September 18, 1781. From 1781 to 1789, a three-altar stone church was built here on the square, which subsequently received the name Rozhdestvenskaya Square. It was demolished in 1934, and a square was arranged in its place. The church was reconstructed between 2017 and 2020 on its historical foundation. The church is literally around the corner from our apartments.
The names of the ten Rozhdestvenskaya streets and the district itself originated from the name of the church. However, these names did not immediately become established. In the 1776 plan, the current Sovetskaya streets were designated as lines of the Elephant Yard, where elephants brought from India were kept. They were led to the watering place from the menagerie. The yard was located approximately where the current Oktyabrskaya Hotel is situated, which was originally called Znamenskaya and had four floors. Later it was renamed "Great Northern Hotel." It housed a municipal dormitory for young homeless proletarians, yes, "gopniks." After 10 years, the building was returned to the hotel and renamed "Oktyabrskaya." Next to the hotel, there is a Great Concert Hall. On its site, there was also a Greek church from 1865. In the 1930s, the temple was closed, and the Oktyabrsky Concert Hall was built in its place.
The name of the streets, Rozhdestvenskiye, remained unchanged for over a hundred years (at the end of the 18th - beginning of the 19th century, there were still other variations: lines on Peski and lines of the Rozhdestvenskaya part), but the numbering of the streets changed. It wasn't easy for the postmen!
The name of the streets, Rozhdestvenskiye, remained unchanged for over a hundred years (at the end of the 18th - beginning of the 19th century, there were still other variations: lines on Peski and lines of the Rozhdestvenskaya part), but the numbering of the streets changed. It wasn't easy for the postmen!
Now so few Greeks remain in Leningrad,
That we demolished the Greek church,
In order to build on the vacant space
A concert hall. In such architecture
There is something despairing.
- Joseph Brodsky
That we demolished the Greek church,
In order to build on the vacant space
A concert hall. In such architecture
There is something despairing.
- Joseph Brodsky
Volynsky Lane
The name of the statesman Artemy Volynsky is closely associated with the history of a lane located between the Moika River and Bolshaya Konyushennaya Street. This statesman, whose career began under Peter the Great, experienced both highs and lows: he gained the favor of Peter, served as an envoy to Persia, and was appointed governor of the Astrakhan province. However, he lost his positions due to the failure during the Persian campaign. Under Catherine I, he obtained the rank of Major General and became the governor of Kazan, but once again lost his position. During Peter II's reign, he managed to regain a high rank and held it until the rule of Anna Ivanovna. The empress granted Volynsky a plot of land near the Moika River, not far from the imperial stables.
Volynsky found like-minded individuals, and together they developed a project for the restructuring of Russia. Naturally, his ideas faced resistance from A.I. Osterman and Prince A.B. Kurakin. This was followed by a sudden downfall, arrest, torture, humiliated repentance, and public execution of Volynsky and his associates in 1740.
Volynsky's courtyard was transformed into the Volkovsky Rooms, a small hotel.
Volynsky found like-minded individuals, and together they developed a project for the restructuring of Russia. Naturally, his ideas faced resistance from A.I. Osterman and Prince A.B. Kurakin. This was followed by a sudden downfall, arrest, torture, humiliated repentance, and public execution of Volynsky and his associates in 1740.
Volynsky's courtyard was transformed into the Volkovsky Rooms, a small hotel.
In 1907, the land plot formerly owned by A.P. Volynsky was acquired by the Guard Economic Society with the intention of building a large department store there. A special international competition was organized for the construction of the department store, with 25 projects participating. Eventually, the project by architect E. Virrikh was chosen. The construction of the building marked the first use of reinforced concrete framework. After the October Revolution of 1917, the building of the department store was handed over to the Leningrad Union of Consumer Cooperatives. In 1927, the former building of the Guard Economic Society's department store was opened as the House of Leningrad Cooperation (DLC). In November 1935, the department store was renamed the House of Leningrad Trade (DLT). During World War II and the siege of Leningrad, the building suffered significant damage from artillery shelling and aerial bombings, but it was promptly restored after the war. In 1945-1946, it reopened as the Central Commercial Department Store - the Leningrad Trade House (DLT).
DLT is visible from the windows of our apartments near the Hermitage. The address is Volynsky Lane, House 4. According to the 1869 House Tables of St. Petersburg, House No. 4 belonged to Korsakova, as did House No. 28 (now No. 30) on the Moika Embankment. Directories such as "Entire Petersburg" for 1894-1898 indicate that House No. 4 was owned by Georgy Sergeevich Korsakov, who resided in his own house at Bolshaya Konyushennaya, 17. The directory provides no additional information about him other than his property ownership. Houses No. 6 and 8 (corner) on Volynsky Lane belonged to Maria Nikolaevna Melzer. According to the directory for 1899, all the houses previously owned by Georgy Sergeevich passed into the ownership of hereditary noblewoman Lydia Alexandrovna Korsakova. By 1905, House No. 6 on Volynsky Lane returned to the ownership of L.A. Korsakova from the heir of M.N. Melzer - Nikolay Adamovich Melzer. By 1911, L.A. Korsakova remained the owner of only House No. 30 on the Moika Embankment, where she resided. The owner of the houses on Volynsky Lane became Fyodor Fyodorovich Fukke, who retained ownership until 1917.
DLT is visible from the windows of our apartments near the Hermitage. The address is Volynsky Lane, House 4. According to the 1869 House Tables of St. Petersburg, House No. 4 belonged to Korsakova, as did House No. 28 (now No. 30) on the Moika Embankment. Directories such as "Entire Petersburg" for 1894-1898 indicate that House No. 4 was owned by Georgy Sergeevich Korsakov, who resided in his own house at Bolshaya Konyushennaya, 17. The directory provides no additional information about him other than his property ownership. Houses No. 6 and 8 (corner) on Volynsky Lane belonged to Maria Nikolaevna Melzer. According to the directory for 1899, all the houses previously owned by Georgy Sergeevich passed into the ownership of hereditary noblewoman Lydia Alexandrovna Korsakova. By 1905, House No. 6 on Volynsky Lane returned to the ownership of L.A. Korsakova from the heir of M.N. Melzer - Nikolay Adamovich Melzer. By 1911, L.A. Korsakova remained the owner of only House No. 30 on the Moika Embankment, where she resided. The owner of the houses on Volynsky Lane became Fyodor Fyodorovich Fukke, who retained ownership until 1917.
Nevsky Prospect
"There is nothing quite like Nevsky Prospekt, at least in St. Petersburg. Oh, don't trust this Nevsky Prospekt, it's all deceit, it's all a dream..."
The street is the showcase of the city. I believe that no single tour would be enough to tell the entire history of the avenue and its most significant events. Every building, without exception, reflects the history of the city, the country, and its residents. Nevsky Prospect consists of such unmatched and diverse buildings, stories, and people that it appears entirely harmonious.
Four and a half kilometers: the quiet Staronievsky section (from Lavra to Vosstaniya Square) and the grand, loud, ceremonial part of the street leading to Palace Square.
On Nevsky, we have three addresses: Nevsky 74, 88, and 91.
Four and a half kilometers: the quiet Staronievsky section (from Lavra to Vosstaniya Square) and the grand, loud, ceremonial part of the street leading to Palace Square.
On Nevsky, we have three addresses: Nevsky 74, 88, and 91.
The residents of the building at Nevsky Prospect 91 call it the "police building." It was built from 1846 to 1850 by architect T. F. Krasnopevkov for the needs of the police and had an official name - the Carriage Department Assembly House, which also had an observatory for "fire surveillance." The police departments of that time in St. Petersburg also served as fire departments, which is why there were fire observatories crowned with special masts. Such observatories were installed in all administrative areas of the city, and in case of a fire or flood, black balls were raised on them. Hence the expression: "To sit under the balls," which was a euphemism for being taken to a police station.
"Union" movie theater's illuminated advertisement on Nevsky Prospekt, 88
It is impossible to imagine the number of legal and not-so-legal establishments, events, and activities that have taken place here. The amount of love and hate felt by the city's residents towards the main avenue is indescribable.
The income house of Kushelova on Nevsky Prospekt, 88, at the end of the 18th century consisted of two small buildings. Later, in the 19th century, a stone building was constructed upon the order of the merchants Menyaev. In the early 20th century, the courtyard sections of the building were constructed by architect A.C. Khrenov, where our apartments are located.
In the 20th century, the building was a rather cultured place. It housed publishing houses, meetings of the Russian Literary Society, and a printing press. The editorial office of the magazine "Novy Put" by Zinaida Gippius and Dmitry Merezhkovsky brought together the work of authors such as Konstantin Balmont, Andrei Bely, and others. The first poems by Alexander Blok were published here.
The editorial office of the magazine "Novy Satirikon," where works by Vladimir Mayakovsky, Sasha Cherny, Alexander Green, and others were published, was also located at Nevsky Prospekt, 88.
In the 20th century, the building was home to other progressive enterprises as well. Women's natural science courses could be attended here, and in the courtyard, there was the "Union" cinema, which changed its name several times. After the war, documentaries and newsreels were shown in the cinema. In the 1980s, it was even possible to watch 3D films there.
The income house of Kushelova on Nevsky Prospekt, 88, at the end of the 18th century consisted of two small buildings. Later, in the 19th century, a stone building was constructed upon the order of the merchants Menyaev. In the early 20th century, the courtyard sections of the building were constructed by architect A.C. Khrenov, where our apartments are located.
In the 20th century, the building was a rather cultured place. It housed publishing houses, meetings of the Russian Literary Society, and a printing press. The editorial office of the magazine "Novy Put" by Zinaida Gippius and Dmitry Merezhkovsky brought together the work of authors such as Konstantin Balmont, Andrei Bely, and others. The first poems by Alexander Blok were published here.
The editorial office of the magazine "Novy Satirikon," where works by Vladimir Mayakovsky, Sasha Cherny, Alexander Green, and others were published, was also located at Nevsky Prospekt, 88.
In the 20th century, the building was home to other progressive enterprises as well. Women's natural science courses could be attended here, and in the courtyard, there was the "Union" cinema, which changed its name several times. After the war, documentaries and newsreels were shown in the cinema. In the 1980s, it was even possible to watch 3D films there.
"The first part of Liteyny Prospekt is, in general, a continuation of Nevsky Prospekt. More precisely, it's a branch, an object of influence, a subsidiary. Nevsky Prospekt is cramped within itself, it strives to occupy all the adjacent spaces.
And yet, this is Liteyny Prospekt.
A guidebook from pre-revolutionary times stated: 'After Nevsky Prospekt, Liteyny Prospekt should take the first place both in terms of its correct location and the beauty of the buildings erected on both sides.'
And indeed, it does. Moreover, in terms of fame, it cannot be compared to Ligovsky Prospekt, Voznesensky Prospekt, or Moskovsky Prospekt. There are numerous avenues like Moskovsky Prospekt, but Liteyny is unique.
By the way, it is also the safest, at least in the city center. P.G. Bruce once mentioned: 'All members of the imperial family live here because of the excellent location and healthy air, as this area is not prone to flooding like other parts of the city.'
Indeed, Liteyny is situated slightly elevated.
The avenue begins with a house where the famous Palkin restaurant used to be located. After the revolution, another entertainment establishment, the cabaret "Petrushka," appeared here. It emerged immediately after the revolution, in 1918. The newspaper "Vechernye Slovo" wrote: 'People are languishing from oppressive hopelessness. At least one place has been found where one can unload the heavy burden of worries and convulsive struggles... It is from these considerations that the cabaret "Petrushka" was born.'
On this topic, the residents of Petrograd even composed a grateful little verse:
The heart withers, like parsley's plight,
Shame holds tight, oh what a sorry sight.
But "Petrushka" shall heal our woes,
From melancholy and gloom it bestows.
However, "Petrushka" only lasted for three months. Unfortunately, carefree fun was not to the liking of the Petrograd commissioners.
Strangely enough, the "Family Cafe" located at the same intersection turned out to be more resilient. Despite the fact that this establishment did not live up to its respectable name. Yefim Zozulya recalled: 'On the corner of Nevsky and Liteyny (now Volodarsky Prospekt) in 1918, there was a cafe with a rather premature name. It was called the "Family Cafe". An astonishing name! There were many bloody fights and killings there. Three robbers played the violins, while the fourth conducted. Prostitutes and bandits, speculators and all sorts of riffraff filled this "cafe". The conductor of this violin orchestra conducted at another tavern for a while - they killed a waiter with stools for something, but he was ordered to keep conducting without looking back, so that the "audience" wouldn't gather.'"
And yet, this is Liteyny Prospekt.
A guidebook from pre-revolutionary times stated: 'After Nevsky Prospekt, Liteyny Prospekt should take the first place both in terms of its correct location and the beauty of the buildings erected on both sides.'
And indeed, it does. Moreover, in terms of fame, it cannot be compared to Ligovsky Prospekt, Voznesensky Prospekt, or Moskovsky Prospekt. There are numerous avenues like Moskovsky Prospekt, but Liteyny is unique.
By the way, it is also the safest, at least in the city center. P.G. Bruce once mentioned: 'All members of the imperial family live here because of the excellent location and healthy air, as this area is not prone to flooding like other parts of the city.'
Indeed, Liteyny is situated slightly elevated.
The avenue begins with a house where the famous Palkin restaurant used to be located. After the revolution, another entertainment establishment, the cabaret "Petrushka," appeared here. It emerged immediately after the revolution, in 1918. The newspaper "Vechernye Slovo" wrote: 'People are languishing from oppressive hopelessness. At least one place has been found where one can unload the heavy burden of worries and convulsive struggles... It is from these considerations that the cabaret "Petrushka" was born.'
On this topic, the residents of Petrograd even composed a grateful little verse:
The heart withers, like parsley's plight,
Shame holds tight, oh what a sorry sight.
But "Petrushka" shall heal our woes,
From melancholy and gloom it bestows.
However, "Petrushka" only lasted for three months. Unfortunately, carefree fun was not to the liking of the Petrograd commissioners.
Strangely enough, the "Family Cafe" located at the same intersection turned out to be more resilient. Despite the fact that this establishment did not live up to its respectable name. Yefim Zozulya recalled: 'On the corner of Nevsky and Liteyny (now Volodarsky Prospekt) in 1918, there was a cafe with a rather premature name. It was called the "Family Cafe". An astonishing name! There were many bloody fights and killings there. Three robbers played the violins, while the fourth conducted. Prostitutes and bandits, speculators and all sorts of riffraff filled this "cafe". The conductor of this violin orchestra conducted at another tavern for a while - they killed a waiter with stools for something, but he was ordered to keep conducting without looking back, so that the "audience" wouldn't gather.'"
Income House of A.L. Kekin
Here we have two apartment options: a studio and an apartment with a balcony. An interesting detail is the headboard of the bed in the studio. Here's what our designer Natalya Popandopulo says about it: "The idea of using antique doors as a headboard has been with me for a long time, and it was implemented in this project. However, the bed still has a small, simple, and soft headboard in terms of form. It doesn't interfere with the composition but provides protection against accidental hits with hands or head.
...Our task was to arrange two equivalent bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a dining-living area. The apartment's layout included only two rooms, limited by load-bearing walls, and a spacious entrance corridor. There was no additional room available, so the role of the second bedroom is fulfilled by the living room. Instead of a sofa bed, we installed a transforming bed that is hidden in the wall next to the fireplace. Additionally, we separated the sleeping area with a thick curtain on an electric drive."
...Our task was to arrange two equivalent bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a dining-living area. The apartment's layout included only two rooms, limited by load-bearing walls, and a spacious entrance corridor. There was no additional room available, so the role of the second bedroom is fulfilled by the living room. Instead of a sofa bed, we installed a transforming bed that is hidden in the wall next to the fireplace. Additionally, we separated the sleeping area with a thick curtain on an electric drive."
Designer Natalia Popandopulo comments
"The large wet area allowed us to design two bathrooms. One of them still has a window that originally overlooked a light shaft. Over time, it was covered up, but we decided to preserve the window frame, which now serves as a mirror.
Color plays a crucial role in the interior. To create the effect of enveloping space, we chose two shades of green for the walls and ceiling, differing by just a couple of tones. The green palette is complemented by rare accents of terracotta and graphite, which establish a visual connection with the view outside the windows. The dirty pink color of the building facades seamlessly transitions onto the armchairs, patterns on the carpet, and a vintage dresser.
The relaxing atmosphere is enhanced by the soft lines of furniture and decor items. The rounded shape of the chandelier is echoed in the patterns on the carpet, while the contours of the vases rhyme with the shape of the lamps in the fireplace. Images of circles transition from the painting above the table to the poster in the bedroom..."
Color plays a crucial role in the interior. To create the effect of enveloping space, we chose two shades of green for the walls and ceiling, differing by just a couple of tones. The green palette is complemented by rare accents of terracotta and graphite, which establish a visual connection with the view outside the windows. The dirty pink color of the building facades seamlessly transitions onto the armchairs, patterns on the carpet, and a vintage dresser.
The relaxing atmosphere is enhanced by the soft lines of furniture and decor items. The rounded shape of the chandelier is echoed in the patterns on the carpet, while the contours of the vases rhyme with the shape of the lamps in the fireplace. Images of circles transition from the painting above the table to the poster in the bedroom..."
The Hermitage
The collection of European masterpieces acquired by Catherine II in the 18th century laid the foundation for the largest museum in Russia and one of the greatest in the world. The Empress purchased art pieces in whole collections from European connoisseurs, including Rembrandt, Raphael, Rubens, and others. By Catherine's decree, the architect Vallin de la Mothe created a special extension to the Winter Palace where the Empress could find solitude and escape from the bustle of state affairs, indulging in the contemplation of beauty. This is how the name "Hermitage" (from the French "le hermitage," meaning a place of seclusion) originated.
During Catherine II's time, the collection was only accessible to her closest circle and even servants were not allowed entry. In the 19th century, students from the Academy of Fine Arts gained access to the Hermitage.
Even Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin couldn't visit the Hermitage for a long time. Eventually, he obtained a pass through the efforts of his friend, the poet Vasily Zhukovsky, who was a mentor to the future Emperor Alexander II.
To view all the exhibits in the Hermitage, spending just 1 minute on each, it would take approximately 11 years of your life, dedicating 8 hours a day to this activity.
In the entire Russia, only in the Hermitage can you see paintings by Leonardo da Vinci.
You can also see a golden snuffbox with a dent here. It was with this snuffbox that the Russian Emperor Paul I was killed.
Since the 18th century, the Hermitage has been home to numerous cats, and it is completely official. They are even provided with allowances. The cats help combat mice and rats, which can damage priceless works of art.
You can see the cats during guided tours held on Hermitage Cat Day. This event is celebrated annually in April-May at the museum.
Another option is to make arrangements with the staff member responsible for the cats. However, this allows access to the basements only if a person wants to adopt a cat, which requires a special interview. New owners, in addition to receiving a certificate for the cat, are granted lifetime free access to the museum. Otherwise, casual visitors are not allowed into the basements since they are considered restricted areas.
Choose apartments near the Hermitage: "near the Hermitage," "near the Admiralty" or "on Malaya Morskaya Street"
During Catherine II's time, the collection was only accessible to her closest circle and even servants were not allowed entry. In the 19th century, students from the Academy of Fine Arts gained access to the Hermitage.
Even Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin couldn't visit the Hermitage for a long time. Eventually, he obtained a pass through the efforts of his friend, the poet Vasily Zhukovsky, who was a mentor to the future Emperor Alexander II.
To view all the exhibits in the Hermitage, spending just 1 minute on each, it would take approximately 11 years of your life, dedicating 8 hours a day to this activity.
In the entire Russia, only in the Hermitage can you see paintings by Leonardo da Vinci.
You can also see a golden snuffbox with a dent here. It was with this snuffbox that the Russian Emperor Paul I was killed.
Since the 18th century, the Hermitage has been home to numerous cats, and it is completely official. They are even provided with allowances. The cats help combat mice and rats, which can damage priceless works of art.
You can see the cats during guided tours held on Hermitage Cat Day. This event is celebrated annually in April-May at the museum.
Another option is to make arrangements with the staff member responsible for the cats. However, this allows access to the basements only if a person wants to adopt a cat, which requires a special interview. New owners, in addition to receiving a certificate for the cat, are granted lifetime free access to the museum. Otherwise, casual visitors are not allowed into the basements since they are considered restricted areas.
Choose apartments near the Hermitage: "near the Hermitage," "near the Admiralty" or "on Malaya Morskaya Street"
Pushkin's Apartment-Museum on Moyka
The enfilade layout of the 11 rooms in the former mansion of the Volkonsky princes, where Pushkin resided during his final days, showcases restored interiors and a multitude of unique items, all vividly capturing the spirit of the Neoclassical era in the imperial capital.
In the famous apartment on Moyka Street, the poet, together with his wife and children, moved in four months before the fateful duel.
In 1833, Pushkin was appointed as a Chamber Junker by Nicholas I. Since then, he and his wife were obliged to attend court balls. The balls, attended only by those closest to the emperor, were held at the Anichkov Palace. "On the third day, I was appointed as a Chamber Junker (which is quite indecent at my age)," writes Pushkin in his diary. "But the court wanted Natalya Nikolaevna to dance at the Anichkov Palace." At the court balls, the poet's wife danced in slippers, which are preserved and displayed in the museum. They are made of prunella, a dense and fine fabric. In the 19th century, prunella footwear was worn by the most elegant ladies and fashion-conscious women.
In November 1836, anonymous lampoons reached Pushkin, in which the author referred to the poet as the "master of the cuckold's order," hinting at the officer Georges d'Anthès' overt courtship of the poet's wife. The conflict escalated, and on February 8, 1837, the duel took place. Its harsh conditions were set by Viscount d'Archiac. According to the document, the distance between the opponents was only twenty paces. Barriers were placed halfway, at a distance of ten paces. The dueling parties could shoot at each other immediately or approach the barrier. The duel was to continue until both opponents were wounded.
During the duel, Pushkin was wounded in the lower abdomen. The bullet shattered a bone and remained in the poet's body. Modern specialists believe that the poet would have survived if the bullet had passed through. On the way from the duel site, Pushkin lost over two liters of blood, which soaked his shirt and waistcoat. The poet's wife, Natalya Nikolaevna, gave this silk waistcoat to the critic Pyotr Vyazemsky, who managed to preserve this relic. Geneticists obtained blood samples from the waistcoat and determined that Pushkin had type AB blood. Alongside the waistcoat, the museum houses one of Vyazemsky's gloves; the other was placed in the poet's coffin.
The exhibition also features a lock of Pushkin's hair, his death mask, as well as his working chair, quill, and other original personal belongings.
Choose exclusive accommodation near the museum. One of our addresses is the house at the corner of Moyka Embankment and Volynsky Lane: "Near the Hermitage" apartments.
In the famous apartment on Moyka Street, the poet, together with his wife and children, moved in four months before the fateful duel.
In 1833, Pushkin was appointed as a Chamber Junker by Nicholas I. Since then, he and his wife were obliged to attend court balls. The balls, attended only by those closest to the emperor, were held at the Anichkov Palace. "On the third day, I was appointed as a Chamber Junker (which is quite indecent at my age)," writes Pushkin in his diary. "But the court wanted Natalya Nikolaevna to dance at the Anichkov Palace." At the court balls, the poet's wife danced in slippers, which are preserved and displayed in the museum. They are made of prunella, a dense and fine fabric. In the 19th century, prunella footwear was worn by the most elegant ladies and fashion-conscious women.
In November 1836, anonymous lampoons reached Pushkin, in which the author referred to the poet as the "master of the cuckold's order," hinting at the officer Georges d'Anthès' overt courtship of the poet's wife. The conflict escalated, and on February 8, 1837, the duel took place. Its harsh conditions were set by Viscount d'Archiac. According to the document, the distance between the opponents was only twenty paces. Barriers were placed halfway, at a distance of ten paces. The dueling parties could shoot at each other immediately or approach the barrier. The duel was to continue until both opponents were wounded.
During the duel, Pushkin was wounded in the lower abdomen. The bullet shattered a bone and remained in the poet's body. Modern specialists believe that the poet would have survived if the bullet had passed through. On the way from the duel site, Pushkin lost over two liters of blood, which soaked his shirt and waistcoat. The poet's wife, Natalya Nikolaevna, gave this silk waistcoat to the critic Pyotr Vyazemsky, who managed to preserve this relic. Geneticists obtained blood samples from the waistcoat and determined that Pushkin had type AB blood. Alongside the waistcoat, the museum houses one of Vyazemsky's gloves; the other was placed in the poet's coffin.
The exhibition also features a lock of Pushkin's hair, his death mask, as well as his working chair, quill, and other original personal belongings.
Choose exclusive accommodation near the museum. One of our addresses is the house at the corner of Moyka Embankment and Volynsky Lane: "Near the Hermitage" apartments.