Frunze Street 18, Taganrog

Frunze Street 18 is a mansion built in the 1860s combining Eclecticist design with Classical and Baroque touches, visible in its ornamental amphorae, philosopher busts, and Satyre figures adorning the facade. The structure served as a residence for several prominent families and underwent significant changes to its interior layout over time.

The mansion was built in the 1860s and passed through several owners including Turkish businessman Panas Constantinidi and the Rafailovich family. In 1925, following the revolution, it was divided into communal apartments, marking a dramatic shift in its use.

The building reflects the blend of architectural styles typical of Taganrog's historic district, where such mansions served as symbols of merchant prosperity and social standing. The decorative elements on the facade demonstrate the taste and wealth of those who lived here.

The mansion is visible from the street and can be viewed from the outside as part of walking through Taganrog's historic quarter. It is best explored alongside nearby mansions to appreciate how they form a coherent architectural group within the district.

The mansion served as residence for French General Charles Mangin in 1919 while he directed a military mission supporting anti-revolutionary forces in the region. This connection links the building to a pivotal moment in Russian history often overlooked in accounts of the Civil War.

Location: Taganrog

GPS coordinates: 47.21160,38.93230

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:40