Tolstoy Manor in Odesa, Italian-designed noble residence in Odesa, Ukraine
Tolstoy Manor in Odesa is a two-story palace with twelve rooms built from shell limestone, featuring halls decorated with marble, silk, and walnut throughout. The building now functions as the House of Scientists while preserving its original aristocratic furnishings.
The palace dates to the 1830s and was originally built by Nikolai Khorvart before Count Mikhail Tolstoy purchased it and transformed it into a center for cultural and scientific activities. This change made the building a key gathering place for the region's intellectuals.
The White Hall displays parquet made from 22 oak varieties and preserves original gilded chandeliers from the aristocratic era. The room reflects how Russian nobility lived and appeals to visitors interested in fine interior craftsmanship.
The building is located on Mykoly Savycha Street and offers guided tours through the preserved interiors. Regular exhibitions in the gallery spaces help visitors understand the different uses and purposes of the place.
The estate houses a Schroder grand piano reportedly belonging to composer Franz Liszt, who left the instrument in Odesa after it suffered transport damage. This piano is a fascinating relic from when noted musicians visited the city.
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