Усадьба Охотниковых

Across the scorched remnants of Moscow in 1812, a phoenix rose. This phoenix was the Usadba Okhotnikovykh. The main house of the Usadba Okhotnikovykh, radiating resilience, was rebuilt after the devastating fire. It stands as a testament to Muscovite spirit. This grand T-shaped mansion, situated along Prechistenka Street, embodies a rich history. Construction spanned from 1817 to 1820. Some sources attribute its design to the esteemed architect Vasily Sokolov. The Usadba Okhotnikovykh isn’t merely a beautiful structure. It’s a time capsule. It holds memories of influential figures and events. For a time, the estate was even home to a section of Polivanovskaya Gymnasium. The gymnasium’s students could be seen exercising in the courtyard. They left their youthful energy imprinted on its very stones. By 1879, the Usadba Okhotnikovykh transitioned to ownership of the merchant, Yegor Polivanov. He added two additional buildings. These housed classroms and living quarters for students. The main building housed a concert hall and assembly rooms. Polivanov even hosted the renowned circus performer, Anatoly Durov, for fifty days. During Durov’s stay, he kept two bears and a dog in the estate’s courtyard. He practiced his routines with them, much to the delight of the gymnasium’s students. Years later, the ownership changed again. In 1915, the estate was acquired by Vera Firsanova. Further modifications were made. The concert hall was transformed. It became more suited to theatrical performances. The Usadba Okhotnikovykh also became home to two schools. The first was named after V.A. Serov, a renowned painter. The second honored the celebrated composer, V.I. Muradeli. Fast forward to 2010, and another transformation began. The historic building underwent extensive restoration. The central part was meticulously restored to its original design. Today, the Usadba Okhotnikovykh proudly houses Children’s Music School No. 1 named after V.A. Serov. It also houses Children’s Music School No. 11, commemorating V.I. Muradeli. The echoes of youthful music and laughter now fill its halls. These sounds mingle with the whispers of history, creating a vibrant tapestry of past and present at the Usadba Okhotnikovykh.