Propylaeum

The propylaea forming the main entrance to Smolny is one of the early masterpieces of Soviet architecture, designed in 1923 by architects V. Shchuko and V.G. Gelfreich. Designed in the traditions of Russian classicism, the Propylaea play an important role in connecting the semicircular square of the Proletarian Dictatorship and the adjacent Parterre Garden with the historical architecture of Smolny, which makes it an organic part of the architectural ensemble. The propylaea consists of two portico pavilions with five columns located on both sides of the central garden alley on the ground floor. The perimeter of the boulevard ends at the main portico of the Currant. The pavilions are expressive, well-proportioned and simple in form.