Russia 2019 (20) MOSCOW - Russian Architecture

Today was our last day in Moscow. We joined an excursion called "Panoramic Moscow." It was basically an overall city tour with a few highlighted stops. At one point we were on Tverskaya Street (or Leningradsky Lane), one of the oldest streets in Moscow. It is the prime radial street around the town and then continues northwest as the main highway to Saint Petersburg. By car that is 719 kilometers (447 miles) and 8 hours 9 minutes away.

Another interesting fact was the need for modernization in Moscow in the 19th century. Up to seven story buildings were lifted, placed on rails, and moved 20-30 meters (60-98 feet) back to make way for wider streets. These buildings were moved back.

Our guide described the two major Russian architecture styles of early 20th century Russia. First came Constructivist (or Leninist) architecture. It combined advanced technology and engineering with the Communist social purpose. Steel and glass structures in cubist block style. Straight lines, quality but sparse, industrial, practical are all words to describe it. Max height was about seven stories.

Here's Lenin. Not sure if this his one of his buildings (maybe too tall), but in his style.

Sometimes a little art deco was incorporated.

Stalinist Empire (or Social Classicist) is a style of building during the reign of Stalin. He preferred skyscrapers and monumental structures that represented the strength of the country. Lavish and imposing are words to describe his vision.

An example is Moscow University's main building with lots of levels and parapets. This is one of the "Seven Sister" buildings commissioned by the Stalinist government. Yep, imposing! Attending are 52,000 students in 50 departments, including English.

Here's another example in the background. It may be the Kotelnicheskaya Embankment Building (you saw the night view already) or the Hotel Ukraine (other "Sisters"). Leninist building in front.

Another Seven Sister was built to house ballerinas, composers, musicians, and other artists of the time. It looked similar.

I don't think I have seen so many huge structures in one city, tall with a gargantuan footprint. I can't imagine the internal utility structure. I'd hate to get the HVAC bill. Not sure what this building is, but a little of both styles--straight lines, steel and glass, but certainly monumental.

There are a few "current day modern" buildings. This example is pretty sci-fi. The complex is the Moscow University of Academy of Sciences. That was originally founded by Peter the Great. The complex here contains 1,008 scientific research institutes, including libraries, publishing houses, and hospitals. Way more info at: 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_Academy_of_Sciences

Close-up of the tower top. There is a taller and shorter building with this topping. Their nickname is the Golden Brains.

This is a new business district with a very modern look. These were all built within the last 15 years. Twenty towers are planned.

We also passed by this Italian bistro...

and quaint coffee shop (?).