Town Manor of Klapovskiy - architectural monument late 18th early 19th century (Moscow)

 interesting place, community centre / hall, 17th century construction, 19th century construction, object of cultural heritage of federal importance (Russia)

late 18th century house with early 19th century interesting paintings

Sometimes this private residence is described as the Klapovsky manor after the surname of the last owner, but it might be more appropriate to refer to it as the I. S. Rakhmanov house from the last name of the merchant who rebuilt the house between 1816 and 1823. Of course, this residence was built atop a much earlier structure as well. The arcaded semi basement dates to the 17th century. Damaged by fire in 1812, the former one-story structure was repaired and expanded in Empire-style. During the reconstruction, a six columned portico with lots of stucco decoration and two stonewings were added behind the gates. The frieze is interesting; also note the initials "P"and "M" in the tympanum of the pediment of the main house. It dates from the mid 19th century owner, Pyotr Moloshnikov.

Beginning in 1930, this was the headquarters of the Moscow Society for Scientific Atheism that sought to convince the population there was no need for religion. Its success rate was quite low as its seminars were often the first exposure many received to religion, whose appeal proved stronger than the counter arguments the society offered.