Volkonsky House, Historical mansion in Arbat District, Russia
Volkonsky House stands at the corner of Vozdvizhenka Street and features a striking tower with a dome at its angular section. The building has a distinctive G-shaped layout with decorative stone masonry adorning its facades.
The house was built in the 18th century and belonged to Prince Volkonsky, who inspired Leo Tolstoy's character Prince Bolkonsky in War and Peace. The prince's significance in Russian literary history made this house a notable historical monument.
The house served as a gathering place for Moscow nobility in the early 1800s, where literary and artistic discussions took place regularly. Visitors can still see the rooms that hosted these intellectual meetings.
The building underwent renovation in 2013, expanding from two to four floors while retaining its status as a protected cultural monument. The exterior and tower are best viewed from street level to appreciate the architectural details.
The prince whose name the house bears became known for his participation in the Napoleonic Wars and later connection to the Decembrists. This historical role made him a key figure who inspired Tolstoy's literary work.
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