Moscow Orphanage

The Moscow Orphanage is a sprawling complex with neoclassical features stretching along the Moskva River, marked by intricate architectural details and ornamental stonework. A spired belvedere near the embankment serves as a distinctive focal point of the property.

Founded in 1764 during Catherine the Great's reign, the institution was designed to educate orphans and prepare them for meaningful roles in society. However, living conditions within its walls proved harsh, affecting the wellbeing of many residents.

The in-house theater gave orphaned children a stage to perform and develop artistic skills through regular public shows. This created opportunities for young residents to build confidence and find creative expression.

The complex spreads across multiple connected buildings that can be explored on foot, with the riverside path offering a natural walking route through the grounds. Restoration work is currently underway, so some sections may have limited access or require alternative pathways.

The building ranks among the largest pre-revolutionary structures in Moscow, revealing the ambition and resources invested by tsarist Russia in social institutions. Restoration teams employ specialized wedge-shaped scaffolding designed to respect the geometric precision of the original architecture.