Kurakin Almshouse, Charitable institution in Basmanny District, Russia.
The Kurakin Almshouse is a U-shaped hospital building with a church dedicated to Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker located at Novaya Basmannaya Street. The complex combines residential quarters and a place of worship within a single architectural design.
Prince Boris Ivanovich Kurakin founded this charitable institution in 1742 after encountering similar facilities during his ambassadorial service in Paris. The establishment was directly inspired by European models of social welfare organizations.
The architecture displays Anninsky Baroque features with balanced proportions and detailed ornaments that reflect its original purpose as a shelter for those in need.
The building now operates as the Moscow House of Nationalities, which presents exhibitions and cultural programs throughout the year. Visitors can explore rotating events and activities focused on Russian ethnic diversity and cultural exchange.
The original residents received individual rooms along with regulated meal schedules and clear guidelines for attending religious services. This arrangement was remarkably advanced for its time in terms of organized care and dignity.
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