Why Stalin’s skyscraper needed a new steeple

For almost a year the building where Russia’s foreign policy is rolled out has been under construction: Its old steeple has been dismantled and the top of the building covered in scaffolding.

Mikhail Japaridze/TASS

For almost a year the building where Russia’s foreign policy is rolled out has been under construction: Its old steeple has been dismantled and the top of the building covered in scaffolding.

The original plan of the building was approved without a steeple

Kommersant

Surprisingly, the original plan of the building was approved without a steeple. Only later was the peak added to the looming Stalinist Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Legend has it that Joseph Stalin was not happy that the building he personally greenlighted resembles an American skyscraper.

With time the frail construction weakened considerably and was in bad need of renovation.

Mikhail Japaridze/TASS

So to differentiate the superstructure, architects were forced to assemble a steeple out of light flimsy material because the original blueprints did not allow for a heavy summit. With time the frail construction weakened considerably and was in bad need of renovation.

The old steeple was taken down and cut in small pieces.

Artem Geodakyan/TASS

The old steeple was taken down and cut in small pieces which were then handed out to journalists of the MFA press corps.

The new, more durable apex was unveiled recently.

Alexey Kudenko/RIA Novosti

The new, more durable apex was unveiled recently. The top of the building now looks alien to the whole structure as its color differs in tone from the main building. Architects say, however, it was all blend in within one year.

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.