Tolstovsky House is one of the unofficial landmarks of St. Petersburg. Located in the heart of the city, it was built in the "Northern Art Nouveau" style, which gives it a unique charm. The courtyards of Tolstovsky House once served as backdrops for London streets in the Russian film "Sherlock Holmes."
How to Get There
The address of Tolstovsky House is 15-17 Rubinstein Street or 54 Fontanka River Embankment. You should reach the "Mayakovskaya" metro station (green line) and walk a short distance. The property is guarded, but you can easily enter the courtyard through the gate with residents.
A Bit of History
The Tolstovsky House was constructed between 1910 and 1912 under the guidance of architect F. I. Lidval for Count M. P. Tolstoy, which is why it bears his name. The building was designed according to the standards of the time, featuring plumbing and elevators, with apartments intended for people from different social classes. Hence, there are various layouts, from small "economy" units to luxurious apartments of several hundred square meters. Today, it would be considered a residential complex.
Architectural features of the building include numerous tall arches up to the third floor, oval windows, relief panels, and niches with vases. The line of the inner courtyard has a slight curve due to the specifics of the construction and is not fully visible. According to the architect's plan, the courtyard was meant to resemble a street. Small lawns were laid out along the house. During the Soviet era, the courtyard was redesigned, with flowerbeds and a fountain added to the center, although the fountain no longer exists.
Current Condition
Currently, Tolstovsky House is not a designated architectural monument and is not protected by the state. Its exterior facades and decorative courtyard elements are well-preserved. The interior is pleasant to walk through, and the Gothic lamps are simply magnificent. Notably, the building's wear is only 40%, indicating high-quality construction.
Additionally, nearby is the city's main artery—Nevsky Prospect—as well as Kazan Cathedral and the Church of the Savior on Blood. Be sure to visit these landmarks.
In summary:
- Atmosphere of "true" St. Petersburg;
- Magnificent architecture;
- Ideal for a great photo shoot.
