Moscow's Shukhov Tower Saved

In March we reported that the demolition or dismantling and rebuilding of the tower designed and named for Vladimir Shukhov was likely. So it comes as a welcome surprise to read the article in The Moscow Times stating: "Moscow City Hall has formally prohibited the moving or reassembly of a Soviet architectural landmark." The protection order actually dates to July 10, but "did not appear in online legislation databases until late last week," according to the paper.

The hyperboloid structure is described by the Shukhov Tower Foundation, which took a large role in reversing threats to the tower, "as one of the most beautiful and prominent achievements of engineering thought, the masterpiece of engineering art." Headed by Shukhov's grandson, also named Vladimir, the Foundation has repeatedly called for restoration work on the tower, in order to stave off any danger to the public from its deterioration. But according to The Moscow Times, even though that restoration will be carried out with the protection rules in mind, "no time frame has yet been determined" for the much-needed work.