House of the Government of Moscow, former Comecon building
The House of the Government of Moscow is a large office building with a distinctive tower standing on the Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment that serves as the center of Russian government operations. The structure rises about 119 meters high with a clear geometric form, finished in gray granite and white marble, making it a striking presence on the city's skyline.
Construction began in 1965 following designs by architects Dmitri Chechulin and Pavel Shteller and was completed in 1981. The building became a focal point of political turbulence after the Soviet era, particularly during the failed coup attempt in 1991 and the constitutional crisis in 1993 when tanks damaged portions of the structure.
Locals and visitors recognize this building as a symbol of state power that has shaped the city's identity for decades. The nickname "White House" referring to its marble exterior is widely used in everyday conversation to distinguish it from other government structures.
The building is clearly visible from outside and sits directly on the riverbank embankment where it can be seen from many points across the city. The best views come from the opposite riverbank or nearby walkways where the full structure with its tower stands in clear view.
The building has a hidden dimension: it contains extensive underground levels with parking, tunnels, and technical rooms that are invisible from street level. These underground structures make the total volume of the complex significantly larger than the above-ground building suggests.
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