Once upon a time, I read online that from the observation deck at the Sparrow Hills in Moscow, you can see all seven Stalinist skyscrapers. I never verified whether this was true or not, but during a walk in VDNKh, I discovered that you can view all these buildings from another location: across from the building of the Russian State Social University, there is a platform with models of these famous "Seven Sisters."
How to Get There by Metro
The easiest way to explore this unusual attraction is to combine it with a walk around the VDNKh area. You can walk here from the "Botanichesky Sad" or "VDNKh" metro stations. In the first case, it will take about 15 minutes, and in the second, about 25.
It's easiest to plan your route here using online maps. You can use the administrative building of the university as a landmark; its address is 4/1 Vilgelma Pika Street.
A Bit of History
Ideas for constructing tall buildings in the Soviet capital existed as far back as the 1920s. However, the implementation of the plan to erect grandiose structures began after the World War II. The ceremonial laying of the foundations for the future architectural dominants of the city took place in the year of Moscow's 800th anniversary.
The grand project was intended to reflect the successes of the state in the fight against Hitler's Germany, the greatness of the country, and set the direction for the future for Soviet architects.
In Moscow, seven Stalinist skyscrapers were built: the Moscow State University complex, two hotels, two residential buildings, and two administrative buildings. City planners wanted to build another high-rise building in Zaryadye, but this plan was never realized. Interestingly, in one book from 1953, this building is described as a realized project. On the pages of this book, you can find descriptions of many rooms in the non-existent building. The Palace of Soviets, a giant complex that was planned to be built on the site of the demolished Cathedral of Christ the Savior, is often considered among the unrealized projects of skyscrapers in Moscow.
In front of the Russian State Social University building, there is a small exposition featuring reduced-scale replicas of all seven buildings. The models are made of wood, so some elements of the facades are missing or damaged. Next to each building, there is an information plaque with a brief description of the object.
I couldn't find any information in official sources about how the models of the skyscrapers ended up on this platform, but you can find mentions online that reduced copies of famous buildings were used at the City Day event five years ago. Nevertheless, I'm sure that this small exhibition will be interesting to all enthusiasts of Moscow's history and architecture.
Lastly, I would like to note that I have only managed to visit one of the skyscrapers so far, where the Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya hotel is located. I invite you to join me in taking a look at its amazing interiors.
Have a nice trip!
