soviet classicism
A highly formal and ornamental neoclassical style associated with Soviet and Eastern European institutional architecture.
The Soviet architectural style is an exuberant and highly formal version of neo-classicism which was sanctioned by the government of the Soviet Union in the 1950s. It was used mostly for government and institutional buildings in the Soviet Union and Eastern European communist countries.
Buildings in this style are highly symmetrical, often featuring dramatically staggered setbacks, ornate porticos, and effusive ornament at the top. Many of them culminate in steep spires and high cupolas. Because of its vertical emphasis, the style is frequently nicknamed Stalinist gothic.
This style is a strong exception to the prevailing modernism of the post-World War II era.
Approximate Dates: 1945 to 1960