The wooden Churches of Romote Kizhi
Pogost


The Muscovite architectural style of the 17th and 18th centuries in Russia is characterized by its unique blend of traditional Russian, Byzantine, and Western European influences. This style emerged during a period of significant cultural and political transformation in Russia, and it is marked by several distinctive features:

Key Characteristics:

1. Onion Domes:
• One of the most iconic features of Muscovite architecture is the onion-shaped dome, often brightly colored and elaborately decorated. These domes are typically found on churches and cathedrals.
2. Tent Roofs (Shatior):
• The tent roof, or “shatior,” is a steeply pitched roof that resembles a pyramid or cone. This style was prevalent in church architecture and was a departure from the traditional Byzantine dome.
3. Kokoshniks:
• These are decorative gables, often semi-circular or scalloped in shape, placed above windows, doors, or at the base of domes. They add a layered, ornate appearance to the structures.
4. Color and Ornamentation:
• Buildings from this period are known for their vibrant colors and intricate decorations, including frescoes, carved stone, and patterned brickwork. The use of bright, contrasting colors helped to create a visually striking aesthetic.
5. Multiple Towers and Asymmetry:
• Many structures feature multiple towers of varying heights, creating an asymmetrical yet harmonious appearance. This was especially common in church complexes and fortified monasteries.
6. Integration with Nature:
• Muscovite architecture often sought to blend with the natural environment, incorporating gardens and surrounding landscapes into the design of religious and secular buildings.

Influence and Evolution:

The Muscovite style eventually gave way to the Petrine Baroque and later Russian neoclassical styles as Western European influences became more pronounced during the reign of Peter the Great and subsequent rulers. However, the distinctive elements of Muscovite architecture remain an important part of Russia’s cultural and architectural heritage.

The blend of traditional Russian elements with Byzantine and Western influences during this period created a unique and enduring architectural style that continues to be celebrated and studied for its historical and artistic significance.


17th Century Romanov Boyar Residence




Novdevichy Convent
Moscow




Kazan Cathedral in Red Square




Trinity Church
Kitay, Gorod




Church of Elijah the Prophen
Varoslavl




Nativity Church
Putinki




Palace of Alexis
Savvino, Storozhevsky




Palace of the Patriarch of Moscow
With the church of the Twelve Apostles




Cathedral of the Resurection New Jerusalem Monastery




Remains of the Averky Kirolovs Palace




St Nicholas Church in Bersenevka




Kolomenskoe Summer Residence of the Tsars




Palace of the Wealthy Merchant Family Pogankin
Pskov




St John the Baptist Church




Church of St Nicholas
Khamovniki




Metropolotan Palace
Yaroslavl

Znamenskaya Church




Krutitsy




Pushkikovs Palace
Nizhny, Novgorod




Menshikov Tower

Saint Basil’s Cathedral
Showcase of Muscovite Russian Architecture


Russian architecture during the Moscovite period is characterized by its unique synthesis of native traditions and foreign influences, particularly from Italy. Here’s an overview of its origins, development, and the Italian influence:

Origins of Moscow and the Muscovite Style

Early Foundations

• Founding of Moscow: Moscow was founded in 1147 by Prince Yuri Dolgorukiy. It became the center of the Grand Duchy of Moscow, which emerged as a significant political and cultural center by the late 14th and early 15th centuries.
• Kremlin as a Symbol: The Moscow Kremlin, initially built as a wooden fort, became the seat of power. It was continuously expanded and rebuilt, playing a crucial role in shaping the city’s architectural style.

Development of Muscovite Architecture

Characteristics

• Onion Domes: One of the most distinctive features of Muscovite architecture is the onion dome, which is believed to symbolize the burning flame of faith.
• Tent Roofs: Another feature is the tent roof (shatyor), used in church designs to provide a unique and tall silhouette against the sky.
• Color and Ornamentation: Rich decoration, vibrant colors, and intricate brickwork became hallmarks of the style.

Italian Influence

Arrival of Italian Architects

• Ivan III and the Renaissance Influence**: In the late 15th century, Ivan III invited Italian architects to Moscow to modernize the Kremlin and other important structures. This marked a significant turning point, introducing Renaissance elements into Russian architecture.
• – **Notable Architects**: Among the Italian architects were Aristotele Fioravanti, who rebuilt the Assumption Cathedral in the Kremlin, and Pietro Antonio Solari and Aloisio the New, who contributed to the construction of the Kremlin walls and towers.

Architectural Innovations

• Blending Styles: The Italians brought with them advanced engineering techniques and Renaissance aesthetics, which they blended with traditional Russian forms. This fusion gave rise to unique structures combining the best of both worlds.
• Key Structures:
• Assumption Cathedral: Designed by Fioravanti, it incorporated the classic Russian cross-in-square layout but with Renaissance proportions and structural innovations.
• Kremlin Walls and Towers: The reconstruction and expansion of the Kremlin fortifications under Italian guidance introduced new defensive features and aesthetic enhancements.

Notable Examples of Muscovite Architecture

• St. Basil’s Cathedral: Built by Russian architects Barma and Postnik under the commission of Ivan the Terrible, it epitomizes the Muscovite style with its colorful onion domes and intricate design.
• Ivan the Great Bell Tower: This tall structure within the Kremlin complex was influenced by Renaissance architecture but adapted to Russian traditions.
• – **Church of the Ascension in Kolomenskoye: An early example of the tent roof style, this church showcases the evolution of Russian church architecture during the period.

Legacy

The Moscovite architectural style laid the groundwork for the later Russian architectural developments, particularly the grandeur of the Russian Baroque and the neoclassical styles of the 18th and 19th centuries. The blending of Italian Renaissance elements with native Russian traditions created a distinctive architectural heritage that continues to be celebrated and admired today.

Saint George Cathedral
Yuryev, Polsky




Church of the Transfiguration on Ilyina Street
Inveliky Novgorod




Episcopal Palace
Suzdal




Savvina Storozhevsky Monastery




Savious Cathedral of Andronikov Monastery




Trinity Cathedral of the Trinity Lavra




The Cathedral of the Dormition
Moscow




The Cathedral of the Mormition
Moscow




Tsarevich Dmitry Palace
Uglich




Palace of Facets
Moscow Kremlin




Old English Court Headquarters of English
Muscovy Company




Spasskaya Tower
Moskow Kremlin




Reconstructed Example of Russian Wooden Architecture
Moscow
Typical for the Russian Architecture




Ivan the Great Bell Tower




Ivan the Great Bell Tower




Church of the Asciension in Kolomenskoe




Church of the Ascension
Kolomenskoe




Iberian Gate and Chapel
Moscow




Terem Palace
Moscow




Church of the Ascension of Spaso Prilutsky Monastery




Nolov Monastery