Picture the imposing stone arch. It seems to lead directly into the earth. This is the Bashnya-ruina a remarkable monument in Pushkin.
The Bashnya-ruina or Ruin Tower stands proudly in Ekaterininsky Park. It’s a testament to Catherine II’s reign. She commissioned this structure to commemorate the Russo-Turkish War of 1768-1774. It’s more than just a ruin it’s a historical landmark.
Construction of the Bashnya-ruina took place between 1771 and 1773. The German-Russian architect Yuri Felten designed this masterpiece. Architect I M Sitnikov oversaw the civil works. The tower’s design is unique. It’s a Tuscan column topped by a round arbour. This is situated atop an abacus at 21 meters high. Imagine the panoramic views from that height. The arbour’s Gothic lancet apertures frame beautiful scenes. The lake and park are stunning from this vantage point.
Adding to its allure artist A Belsky worked his magic. In the summer of 1773 he painted the exterior walls. He artfully created cracks in the plaster. These simulated the effects of age and weathering. The effect is breathtaking. It perfectly blends artistry and history.
In 1784 trees were planted to enhance the tower’s setting. The embankment where it stands is beautifully landscaped. A striking Gothic pig-iron gate further enhances the charm. This gate was cast in 1782 at the Demidovsky factory in Ekaterinburg. It’s a unique piece of Russian history. Made of pig iron it is a pioneering architectural element.
The Bashnya-ruina has faced challenges. Shelling during World War II caused significant damage. The arbour was half-destroyed. Arches and eaves were damaged. The travertine suffered greatly. But restoration efforts have preserved this precious piece of history.
A restoration plan was made in 1977. Actual work started in 1986. The Polish firm PKZ undertook the restoration. It was completed in 2006. The pavilion reopened in August 2009. Now part of a museum garden. It’s a must-see. Open daily from 11 am to 5 pm you can explore the Bashnya-ruina today. A rich piece of history awaits you.