 Saint Petersburg State Forestry University (often referred to historically as the Forestry Academy or Lesotekhnicheskaya Akademiya). Established in 1803 by decree of Emperor Alexander I as the Practical Forestry School in Tsarskoye Selo. In 1811, it was moved to its current location in the Vyborgsky District of Saint Petersburg, occupying the site of an old English dairy farm. The classical white building shown in the photo is the Main Educational Building. Originally constructed as four separate corps between 1826 and 1833 by architects I.F. Lucchini and A. Nellinger, these were later united into a single complex with a central courtyard in the late 1830s. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Neoclassical apartment building located at 108 Bolshoy Sampsonievsky Prospect (corner of Serdobolskaya Street), viewed across Serdobolsky Pond. The dominant structure is a residential complex known locally as the House of Specialists or sometimes nicknamed the "Bastille near Lanskaya". Designed by architects Viktor F. Belov, V.A. Potapov, and M.P. Savkevich. Built between 1953 and 1956, representing the late Stalinist "Empire" style. It was commissioned by the Klimov Plant (Zavod im. Klimova), a major manufacturer of aviation engines, to house its employees. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Garden fence near 5 lit. B Engelsa Street. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Colorful autumn scene in the historic Vyborgsky District near the intersection of Novorossiyskaya Street and Engelsa Prospect. The view is taken from Novorossiyskaya Street, looking through a decorative iron fence. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Garden fence near 5 lit. B Engelsa Street, view from Novorossiyskaya Street. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Rebuilding of the Forest Building (Russian: Lesnoy Korpus) in a major reconstruction project at the historic Sestroretsk Resort (Sestroretsky Kurort). The original Sestroretsk Resort was a famous health spa complex founded in 1898 by engineer Peter Avenarius. It featured several grand wooden structures, including a massive Kursaal (concert hall), a mud bath facility, and the Forest Building. The resort was a hub for St. Petersburg s elite and intelligentsia in the early 20th century. The original Forest Building was a beautiful wooden hotel and sanatorium building constructed in the early 1900s. It was a key part of the ensemble but was destroyed during World War II. The new structure faithfully replicates the "Northern Art Nouveau" style of the original resort architecture, characterized by its complex roofline, spires, towers, and wooden detailing that harmonizes with the surrounding pine forest and dunes. The exterior appears nearly complete, showing the elaborate wooden facade, the large central dome, and the corner towers with their needle-like spires. The scaffolding indicates that finishing work is still in progress. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Pyramid Pavilion, located in a quiet, shady corner of Catherine Park in Tsarskoe Selo (Pushkin). It was originally built in 1770-1772 by the architect Vasily Neyelov and later reconstructed by Charles Cameron in 1782-1783. The pavilion was designed to resemble an ancient Egyptian mausoleum, reflecting the Romantic era s fascination with antiquity and melancholy ruins. It is constructed of brick and faced with trimmed granite. Buried behind the pyramid are three of the Empress s favorite Italian greyhounds: Tom Anderson, Zemira, and Duchesse. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Northern end of Vene Street (Vene ta"nav) at the intersection with Olevima"gi and Bremeni ka"ik. The red brick building on the immediate left is located at Vene 28. It is a historic structure that was originally built in 1912 as a residential building and briefly housed the Estonian Provisional Government in 1918. It stands out with its industrial-style red brick facade contrasting with the medieval stone walls nearby. The large limestone wall with the archway on the far left is part of the city s defensive fortifications, specifically near the Bremen Tower (Bremeni torn). The archway leads into Bremen Passage (Bremeni ka"ik), a short, atmospheric walkway that connects Vene Street to Uus Street through the city wall. The tower itself, a 15th-century horseshoe-shaped defensive structure, is located just behind this wall. In the background, at the end of the street, you can see the yellow tower and facade of the Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas (Nikolai kirik) at Vene 24. Designed by architect Luigi Rusca and built between 1820-1827, this Neoclassical church serves a congregation under the Moscow Patriarchate and is known for its valuable iconostasis. It sits on the site of a much older church that served Novgorod merchants in the Middle Ages. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Ruins of the former "Okhotnichy Domik" (Hunting Lodge) restaurant, built in 1958 in the Stalinist Neoclassical style. The structure, located near Prospekt Engelsa, features a distinctive rotunda with columns and a now-exposed skeletal dome, having fallen into disrepair after a fire in 2010. The ruins are now heavily vandalized with graffiti and overgrown with vegetation, standing as a decaying relic of Soviet-era recreational architecture within the park. Udelnyi Park, St. Petersburg, Russia, October 4, 2025  Hall on the Island in Catherine Park, view from Ferry Crossing. It was originally built in the late 1740s by the architect Savva Chevakinsky in the Baroque style, with decorations based on sketches by Rastrelli. In 1794, under Catherine the Great, the architect Giacomo Quarenghi completely rebuilt it in the Classical style. He simplified the decor, giving it the restrained, elegant appearance seen today--white walls, large arched windows, and a modest green roof. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  The central alley leading to the Arsenal Pavilion, a red-brick neo-Gothic structure designed by Adam Menelaws. Completed in 1834, the Arsenal resembles a medieval castle with crenellated towers and massive arched windows. It was originally built to house Nicholas I s vast collection of medieval arms and armor. The straight alley is a remnant of the formal layout from the earlier "Monbijou" pavilion that stood here, now framed by the mature trees of the surrounding landscape park. After severe damage in WWII, the building was restored and reopened in 2016 as a museum displaying imperial weaponry. Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park in Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Maple alley near a building of the Forestry Academy. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Example of Art Nouveau architecture in Tallinn, located at Pikk 18. It was designed by the renowned Baltic German architect Jacques Rosenbaum and completed in 1910. The design is celebrated for its flamboyant and fantastical style, which stands in stark contrast to the surrounding medieval architecture. The building is often referred to as the Draakoni Gallery (Dragon Gallery) because of the two large, sculpted dragons flanking the main ground-floor window. These sculptures were created by the famous Riga sculptor August Volz. The fac,ade is uniquely decorated with Egyptian-inspired themes, including reliefs of sphinxes and pharaonic figures at the top of the pilasters, adding to its exotic and eclectic appearance. The building features a distinctive curved corner tower with a slender spire, oval windows, and intricate floral ornaments typical of the late Art Nouveau period. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Devil s Bridge (Chertov Most), also known as the Cascade, located near the Upper Ponds in Catherine Park. Built in the 1770s, likely designed by the architect Vasily Neyelov or possibly Antonio Rinaldi, this structure is a classic example of the romantic "ruin" aesthetic popular in 18th-century landscape gardening. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  This street scene is located on Pikk Street, just north of the Pikk Jalg gate, looking back towards the city center. The baroque spire visible in the distance belongs to St. Nicholas Church (Niguliste kirik). Originally built in the 13th century and dedicated to the patron saint of merchants and seafarers, it is one of the city s most defining landmarks. The tower now features a glass elevator and viewing platform offering 360-degree views of the Old Town. The building at the corner (implied by the location) is part of the historic Kolmjalg ("Tripod") complex, a notable architectural feature at the junction of Pikk and Voorimehe streets, known for its medieval origins. Estonia, October 16, 2025  Main building of Forestry University in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Estonian Theatre for Young Audiences (formerly known as the NUKU Theatre), located at the corner of Lai 1 and Nunne streets. This corner building is a fine example of early 20th-century architecture (completed in 1907), originally built for the Nobility Club. It blends Neo-Renaissance elements (like the balcony) with Art Nouveau influences (evident in the curved corner and roofline). The warm uplighting emphasizes its elegant proportions and decorative cornice. The building houses Estonia s only professional puppet theatre, founded in 1952, and the Museum of Puppetry Arts. The museum entrance is typically around the corner or through the main glass doors seen here. The theatre complex has expanded over the years to include modern performance halls while retaining its historic fac,ade. The view looks down Nunne Street towards the Toompea hill area. To the right, you can see the edge of the city wall fortifications. The street is paved with traditional cobblestones, and the scene is quiet, likely captured in the late evening or early morning. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Fac,ade of Pikk 18, arguably the most famous Art Nouveau building in Tallinn, known as the Dragon Gallery (Draakoni Galerii). Designed by the renowned Baltic German architect Jacques Rosenbaum and completed in 1910, this building is a prime example of late Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) architecture. The two massive, sculpted dragons flanking the ground-floor window are the building s namesake and most iconic feature. They were created by the sculptor August Volz. Above the dragons, the fac,ade features two stern female figures with Egyptian headdresses projecting from the pilasters. These, along with sphinxes and other exotic ornaments on the upper levels, reflect the eclectic and fantastical influences typical of Rosenbaum s style. The large, horseshoe-shaped window on the ground floor and the undulating gable at the top create a sense of movement and fluidity that contrasts sharply with the rigid lines of the adjacent classical and medieval buildings. Originally built as an apartment house for the merchant Reinhold Reichmann, the ground floor has housed the Draakoni Gallery since 1983, an exhibition space managed by the Estonian Artists Association. The green light visible in the window belongs to a fashion boutique or exhibition currently occupying the space. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Ornamental vase in front of the main building in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Monument of heroes of Great October Socialist Revolution. It is a mass grave monument dedicated to Red Guards who died during the 1917 October Revolution and the subsequent Civil War. The site originated in 1917 as a burial ground for workers and Red Guards from the nearby Novy Lessner Plant (now the Karl Marx Machine-Building Plant). These fighters were killed in battles against the troops of General Pyotr Krasnov near Pulkovo during the defense of Petrograd. In 1953, a wooden structure was replaced by the current grey granite obelisk seen today. It was designed by architect Yuri Wiesenthal. This monument is a solemn reminder of the intense revolutionary history of the Vyborg Side, a district historically populated by industrial workers who were pivotal to the Bolshevik cause. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Bolshoy Lamskoy Bridge (Great Lamsky Bridge). It was built in 1820-1822 by the Scottish architect Adam Menelaws, who was instrumental in shaping the park s romantic "English" landscape style. The bridge spans the Lamsky Ponds near the Llama Pavilion, originally serving the utilitarian purpose of connecting the Lamsky stables (which housed exotic llamas from Peru) to the rest of the park. Originally a cast-iron structure, it has been carefully restored to preserve its intricate metal latticework railings, which feature a distinct geometric pattern characteristic of the Russian Empire style. Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park in Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  This wide-angle view of Pikk Street (Pikk ta"nav) showcases a striking contrast of architectural styles, featuring two of the street s most notable buildings at addresses Pikk 18 and Pikk 20. The Dragon Gallery (Pikk 18): To the right stands one of Tallinn s most eccentric Art Nouveau masterpieces, designed by architect Jacques Rosenbaum and completed in 1910. Its fac,ade is a riot of symbolism, featuring two large dragons flanking the ground-floor window (hence the name "Draakoni Galerii") and Egyptian-inspired sphinxes and female figures on the upper levels. The curved bay window and elaborate curvilinear gable are hallmarks of Rosenbaum s highly decorative style. It currently houses an art gallery run by the Estonian Artists Association. On the left is the St. Canute s Guild Hall (Kanuti Gildi Hoone). This complex facade, with its statues of St. Canute (King of Denmark) and Martin Luther, dates to a major reconstruction in the 1860s in the Tudor Gothic style. Historically, this was the headquarters for the Guild of St. Canute, which organized the city s master artisans (goldsmiths, hatters, bakers, etc.). Today, it functions as the Kanuti Gildi SAAL, a contemporary performing arts center, October 16, 2025  Kitchen Ruin (Kukhnya-Ruina) which is one of the most historically fascinating and visually authentic follies in Catherine Park. Built between 1785 and 1786, it was designed by the Italian architect Giacomo Quarenghi. It was constructed specifically to serve as a "service pavilion" (a kitchen) for the nearby Concert Hall. Quarenghi incorporated authentic ancient Roman fragments into its brick walls. These include broken columns, capitals, cornices, and friezes with carved garlands, which were brought to Russia from Italy. The headless statue in the niche is a prominent feature, emphasizing the theme of lost time and the decay of empires. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Temple of Friendship in Pavlovsk Park. Built by Charles Cameron between 1780 and 1784, it was the very first building constructed in the park. It was officially dedicated to Empress Catherine the Great by her son Paul (the future Emperor) and his wife Maria Feodorovna as a gesture of thanks for gifting them the Pavlovsk lands. However, it was also a politically savvy move to rename it the "Temple of Friendship" to honor the visit of Joseph II, the Holy Roman Emperor, framing it as a symbol of enlightened European alliance. Pavlovsk, a suburb of Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 15, 2025  A path in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Old Passenger Terminal of Tallinn Airport. Built between 1945 and 1954 (opened in 1955), this building is a classic example of Stalinist architecture. Its symmetrical facade, rusticated ground floor, and the distinctive control tower with a viewing gallery reflect the monumental style favored in the Soviet Union during that period. An earlier Art Deco/Functionalist terminal was designed in 1938 by the architect Arthur Ju"rvetson, but construction was halted by World War II. The post-war redesign incorporated the Soviet aesthetic. This building served as the main passenger terminal until 1980, when a new, larger terminal (the current one) was built for the Moscow Olympics sailing regatta held in Tallinn. Today, this historic building has been repurposed for VIP services and administrative offices. It stands separately from the modern glass-and-steel terminal but remains an integral part of the airport s history, visible to passengers taxiing on the runway. View from a window of an airplane from Tallinn to Helsinki. Estonia, October 17, 2025  Maple alley in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Institutsky Pereulok in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Serdobolsky Pond. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Akademicheskaya Alley in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Fall colors of Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Yellow maple leaves in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Yellow maple trees Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Alley near Dendrology Garden. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Dense, mature mixed conifer-deciduous stand with a complex vertical structure from a forest trail In Valley of Ponds in Pavlovsk Park. Pavlovsk, a suburb of Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 6, 2025  Red Cascade or Turkish Cascade in Catherine Park. The Red Cascade is a dam that regulates the water level between the Upper Ponds and the Great Pond. The two "towers" flanking the crossing are designed in the Gothic style, featuring red brick walls with white limestone details, pointed arches, and niche windows. It was built in the 1780s by the engineer Ivan Gerard, likely based on designs by the architect Vasily Neelov. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Fall colors of Serdobolsky Pond. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Novosiltsevsky Pereulok from 4 Novorossiyskaya Street. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Maple alley near the Forestry Academy. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Fallen yellow maple leaves. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Garden fence near 2 Novorossiyskaya Street. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Jordan Pond from Kaygorodova Alley. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  A path covered by yellow maple leaves. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Fall colors of maple alley near the Forestry Academy. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  This view from the St. Nicholas Church tower looks south-east, contrasting the medieval Old Town with the modern business district in the background. The large, L-shaped building with the dark gray roof in the center-right is the Writers House (Kirjanike Maja) on Harju Street. Completed in 1963, this Soviet-era modernist building stands out among the older red-roofed structures. It was built on the ruins of buildings destroyed in the 1944 March bombing and remains a cultural hub, housing the Estonian Writers Union and a famous bookstore. In the distance, the sleek glass high-rises of Tallinn s modern city center dominate the horizon. Key skyscrapers include the Swisso^tel Tallinn and the twin towers of the Tornima"e complex, symbolizing the city s rapid economic development since regaining independence. The open area visible to the right, just beyond the dense red roofs, is Freedom Square (Vabaduse va"ljak). Although partially obscured, this major public plaza marks the southern edge of the Old Town and is home to the Victory Column of the War of Independence. Estonia, October 16, 2025  Evening Hall (Vecherniy Zal) in Catherine Park. It was built between 1796 and 1810 under the supervision of architect P.V. Neyelov (and possibly Luigi Rusca). This pavilion was intended for evening gatherings, small concerts, and balls. The building is a simple, rectangular Classical structure with a low dome and large arched windows Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  A house at Bolshoy Sampsonievsky Prospect 108 from Lesnoy (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet) Park. Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 12, 2016  Decorative vase, located in the parterre of the park near the Main Building of the Forestry University, a concrete copy of a 19th-century original. The original vase was created in the 1860s by the famous sculptor David Jensen (1816-1902). The original work was carved from unpolished granite. Today s version is a concrete replica installed in the 1970s. The central motif depicts putti (cherubs), which are playful, chubby male children often found in classical art. The putti appear to be engaged in a playful struggle with a goat, a common allegorical theme in baroque and neoclassical art often representing the abundance of nature or Bacchic festivities. This theme fits well with the park s history as a place of botanical study and appreciation of nature. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Panoramic view from the Tarkhovka shoreline that looks north-west across the Sestroretsky Razliv (Lake Sestroretsk) toward the city of Sestroretsk. This view captures the dual nature of Sestroretsk: a historic resort town with natural beauty (the lake, reeds, and stones) juxtaposed with modern urban infrastructure (heating plant and high-rise housing). "Three Chimneys" (Center): The most prominent industrial feature is the cluster of three tall red-and-white striped chimneys. These belong to the Sestroretsk District Heating Plant (part of the city s thermal infrastructure). Residential Towers (Left of Chimneys): The tall, beige-and-orange brick apartment buildings are part of the modern residential developments in Sestroretsk, likely along Tokarevskaya Street or the Razliv microdistrict. Church of Peter and Paul (Far Right): On the far right horizon. This is a modern church (consecrated in 2009) built in memory of the Russian submariners. "Pyramid" Building (Far Left): On the far left, there is a distinctive white building with a stepped, pyramid-like shape. This is likely the "Eden" (Edem) residential complex or a similar luxury apartment block, which is known for its terraced architecture. Tarkhovka Park near Sestroretsk, west from Saint Petersburg. Russia, October 3, 2025  View of Pikk Street (Pikk ta"nav), one of the most architecturally diverse streets in Tallinn s Old Town. The spectacular grey Art Nouveau building on the right (with the corner turret) is a masterpiece designed by architect Jacques Rosenbaum in 1910. It is famous for its fantastical facade featuring two large dragons and Egyptian-inspired motifs. Today, the ground floor houses the Draakoni Gallery. On the left side of the street (the red and grey facade), one can see the St. Canute s Guild Hall (Kanuti Gildi Saal). Originally built in the 13th century and remodeled in the 19th century with Tudor-style windows and statues of St. Canute and Martin Luther on the facade. It now serves as a contemporary performing arts center. The yellow building on the immediate right foreground is Pikk 22, which houses the Estonian Handicraft House (Eesti Ka"sito"o" Maja). This shop is a go-to place for authentic Estonian folk art and crafts. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Stone Hall Pavilion (Kammenoe Zalo) in Oranienbaum Park. It is a light pink, two-story stone pavilion designed by architect Antonio Rinaldi (built mid-18th century) for Grand Duke Peter Fedorovich. Originally used for concerts, masquerades, and dances, it later served as a Lutheran church. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Hermitage Pavilion in Catherine Park, designed by the Italian court architect Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in Elizabethan Baroque style. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  World Trade Center Tower and Complex (WTC) with 6-level Ball Structure in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, February 23, 2013  A view from a window near Svetlanovsky Prospekt that offers an intimate look into a typical residential courtyard (dvor) of the Vyborgsky District. The beige brick buildings framing the scene are classic examples of brick Khrushchev-era apartments (or early Brezhnev-era), likely built in the 1960s. The 5-story height was standard to avoid the mandatory installation of elevators, which was required for buildings of 6 stories or more. This layout reflects the Soviet microdistrict concept, where residential blocks were arranged around green, communal courtyards to provide light, air, and recreation space away from the main roads. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  World Trade Center Tower and Complex (WTC) with 6-level Ball Structure from Corniche at morning. Doha, Qatar, February 3, 2012  Chinese Gazebo (often called the Creaking Pagoda or Skripuchaya Besedka) which is one of the most eccentric and picturesque structures in Catherine Park. Built between 1778 and 1786, this pavilion was designed by Yury Felten (Georg Friedrich Veldten) at the height of the 18th-century craze for Chinoiserie (Chinese-style art). The pavilion gets its popular nickname from the metal weather vane on its roof. Shaped like a Chinese banner, it was intentionally designed to creak loudly in the wind. Originally, such pavilions served as tea houses or resting spots for the Empress and her court during their walks. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Hydraulic engineering and bank reinforcement works at Upper Ponds in Catherine Park. The piles of large fieldstones (boulders) and gravel, along with the heavy machinery (an excavator is visible in the background), indicate major landscaping and structural repairs. The area near the Upper Ponds has historically required maintenance to its complex system of dams, sluices, and cascades. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Intersection on Pikk Street (at Pikk 17), looking towards the Town Hall Square area. The view is dominated by two historically significant buildings and a lively restaurant scene. The large, gabled building on the right (Pikk 17) is the Great Guild Hall, built in 1417. For centuries, this was the meeting place for the city s most powerful merchants (the Great Guild), who controlled the town council. The building is a masterpiece of medieval limestone architecture, featuring a prominent Gothic portal and a high saddle roof. Today, it houses the Estonian History Museum. The smaller archway next to it (right foreground) is a historic passage, the "Bo"rsi ka"ik" (Exchange Passage), leading towards the Holy Spirit Church. Though partially obscured, the building further down the street with the stepped gable is connected to the complex of the Church of the Holy Spirit. This church is famous for its 17th-century painted clock, the oldest in Tallinn, which faces Pikk Street (though not clearly visible from this specific angle). This section of Pikk Street is a major pedestrian artery, connecting the northern part of the Old Town (where St. Olaf s is) to the central Town Hall Square. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  One of the Small Chinese Bridges (Small Iron Bridges) crossing the Krestovy Canal. Originally wooden (1781), they were replaced with cast iron versions forged at the Sestroretsk Arms Factory in 1786. Designed by Charles Cameron, who also planned the nearby Chinese Village. The bridge features intricate iron lattice railings and is framed by distinctive porticoes formed of paired columns with "Chinese-style" curved sheet-iron roofs. The columns are painted to mimic colored marble, and the structure was fully restored in the 21st century. Aleksandrovsky (Alexander) Park in Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Leuchtenberg Palace, designed by architect Andrei Stackenschneider and completed in 1842. The facade reflects the Late Classicism style (resembling a Roman villa), characterized by a grand portico with Corinthian columns, symmetrical window arrangements, and a pediment that gives the structure a noble, temple-like appearance. The palace s yellow stucco walls show signs of weathering and peeling paint, contributing to the estate s romantic, slightly melancholic atmosphere of a "forgotten" royal residence. The palace is situated on a terrace overlooking the Gulf of Finland, with its color palette harmonizing with the surrounding golden autumn foliage, reinforcing the seamless blend of architecture and nature intended by its designers. Sergievka Park, Old Peterhof, west from Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 13, 2025  Traffic on Prospect Engelsa, view from a back door of a shuttle bus. Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 1, 2011  View of a late-Soviet brick residential quarter (kirpichnaya khrushchevka) deeply integrated with the mature nature of the Vyborgsky district, captured at the beautiful but fleeting peak of autumn. View from this window providing a glimpse into Soviet-era urban planning, specifically the residential design of the 1960s. The beige brick buildings visible in the frame are classic examples of "Khrushchevka" (Series 1-528). Unlike the cheaper concrete panel blocks (panelki), these are constructed from silicate brick, which was considered a "premium" material for mass housing at the time. They are easily identified by their 5-story height, hipped roofs (often replaced with metal sheeting), and specific balcony arrangements. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 11, 2025  Marble Bridge (also known as the Palladian Bridge or Siberian Marble Gallery) in Catherine Park. Built in 1772-1774 by the architect Vasily Neelov, it is modeled after the famous Palladian Bridge at Wilton House in England (designed by Inigo Jones and Roger Morris). The bridge is constructed entirely from Ural marble (hence "Siberian"). It features a covered Ionic colonnade resting on a rusticated arch base. It spans a narrow channel connecting the Great Pond with the smaller neighboring ponds (Swan Islands). Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Turkish Bath, a picturesque pavilion situated on a small peninsula in the Great Pond in Catherine Park. Commissioned by Emperor Nicholas I, this was the last structure built in the imperial park, completed between 1850 and 1852. It was designed by Ippolito Monighetti, who used the appearance of a Turkish mosque as his inspiration. The building features a central gilded dome, a tall minaret crowned with a crescent, and intricate relief ornaments on the white facade. The pavilion serves as a victory monument to the Russo-Turkish War of 1828-1829. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Main Staircase of the Mikhailovsky Palace designed by the architect Carlo Rossi in the 1820s in Russian Museum. Saint Petersburg, Russia, September 24, 2025  A tomb of Egbert Ludwigowitsch Wolf., a distinguished botanist and dendrologist. Egbert Wolf (1860-1931) was a German-born Russian scientist who served as the chief gardener and later a scientific specialist at the Saint Petersburg Forestry Institute. Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet), Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 14, 2025  Oak trees in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Flowerbeds in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Grand Cascade (also known as the Ruined Cascade), located near the Round Pond in the Old Sylvia/White Birch district of Pavlovsk Park. Designed by Vincenzo Brenna in 1794, it was built to look like a romantic "antique ruin." Pavlovsk, a suburb of Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 6, 2025  Ornamental vase in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Pil Tower Bridge (Pil-bashnyy most), with the iconic Pil Tower (Pil-bashnya) visible in the background. The tower is one of the most charming "follies" in the park. Originally built in 1797 by Vincenzo Brenna, it was designed to look like a rustic water mill, complete with a thatched roof and stairs. Pavlovsk, a suburb of Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 6, 2025  Mu"u"rivahe Street (Mu"u"rivahe ta"nav), looking towards the intersection with Viru Street. The image is taken near Mu"u"rivahe 23, which is the location of the Armanda clothing boutique visible on the left. The narrow, cobblestone street retains its medieval charm, winding between historic buildings that date back centuries. In the background, one can see a striking turquoise-colored tower with a weathervane. This is part of the building complex at the corner of Viru and Mu"u"rivahe streets, adding a distinct vertical accent to the streetscape. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Sculptures in Long Pond of Lesnoy (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet) Park. Saint Petersburg, Russia, August 12, 2016  So~prus Cinema (Kino So~prus). The building is a striking example of Stalinist Empire style (Socialist Classicism) architecture, completed in 1955. Its grand fac,ade features a curved colonnade of octagonal columns and decorative reliefs symbolizing various arts and industries. Originally designed by architect Friedrich Wendach, the project was completed by Peeter Tarvas and August Volberg after Wendach was repressed by Soviet authorities. The name "So~prus" means "friendship" in Estonian. Some sources suggest it was named to mark improved relations between the Soviet Union and China at the time. In the 1990s, financial difficulties led to the closure of one hall, which was converted into a nightclub and casino. Today, the building houses both the cinema and the popular Club Hollywood. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  A striking architectural contrast on Sauna Street (Sauna ta"nav), near the intersection with Va"ike-Karja Street. On the left, a modern glass-and-steel building features large display windows and industrial-style staircases, illuminated by neon lights. This building is part of the Helios Hall complex (formerly the Helios Cinema), which has been repurposed as an event venue and art space. The transparent facade allows a view into the contemporary interior, contrasting sharply with the solid, historic walls of the Old Town. On the right, the corner of an older, plastered building (Sauna 12) is covered in colorful, abstract graffiti. This gritty, urban element acts as a foil to the clean lines and slick surfaces of the modern building opposite it, highlighting the eclectic mix of styles in this part of the city. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Debarcader (train shed) of the Vitebsky Railway Station, Russian Art Nouveau (Style Moderne). Massive riveted steel spans were designed by architect Stanislav Brzhozovsky and engineer Sima Minash. It is serving the historic route to Tsarskoye Selo (Pushkin) and Pavlovsk. Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 15, 2025  Enclosed pedestrian overpass at the Kannelyarvi railway station, located on the Karelian Isthmus roughly 75 km northwest of St. Petersburg. This overpass is a modular steel structure clad in translucent polycarbonate panels. The structure is a characteristic example of the standardized "blue tube" pedestrian bridges installed by Russian Railways (RZD) during the widespread modernization of the St. Petersburg-Vyborg line in the late 2000s. Russia, October 1, 2025  Petrovsky Bridge in Oranienbaum Park. The bridge is a three-arched stone structure built in 1910 (designed by O. Paulson) to replace an older wooden one. It features rough-hewn stone masonry on the lower arches contrasting with lighter brick detailing and white balustrades along the top. It spans the Karasta River, which flows through a valley currently filled with vibrant orange and golden foliage from the surrounding maple and oak trees. Oranienbaum palace-and-park ensemble in Lomonosov (a suburb of St. Petersburg), Russia, October 13, 2025  Dissected young mushroom Buchwaldoboletus lignicola in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  This is the No~elasilma ("Eye of the Needle") Gate, a reconstructed section of the medieval urban fabric located at the end of Niguliste Street. Originally, this area was a densely built-up part of the Old Town, near the historic Harju Gate. However, the neighborhood was largely destroyed during the March 1944 Soviet bombing, which leveled about 20% of Tallinn s buildings, particularly in the Harju and Niguliste street areas. The ruins stood for decades before the area was cleared and later redeveloped as a green space and memorial. The No~elasilma Gate itself was reconstructed in 2006-2007 as part of an effort to restore the medieval street network and mark the historical boundary of the former churchyard. The structure consists of two limestone walls with arched openings, mimicking the narrow passageways typical of the medieval city. Looking through the gate, you see the cobblestones of Niguliste Street. In the background stands a distinct corner tower with a red tiled roof, part of the residential block that survived or was restored after the war. The modern apartment buildings on the left (Harju Street area) are post-war constructions, filling the void left by the bombing. The gate now serves as a poignant reminder of the city s lost layers and its resilience. Estonia, October 16, 2025  A quiet, atmospheric section of Pikk Street (near Pikk 5 and 7), one of the oldest and most important commercial streets in medieval Tallinn. Veta Fashion (Pikk 6/8): On the left, the brightly lit shop window belongs to Veta, a well-known Estonian brand specializing in knitwear and linen clothing. The building itself features a classic stucco fac,ade with large display windows that invite passersby to look in. On the right, the building with the blue-and-red wooden door (Pikk 5) is home to the Noku Klubi, a somewhat "secret" bohemian cultural club and restaurant located on the upper floor. The heavy, colorful door is a distinctive landmark for locals knowing where to find this hidden gem. Further up on the right, the red brick building with Gothic-style pointed arches stands out against the plastered facades, adding texture and historical depth to the streetscape. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Gelatinous droplets of a fungus Hypocrea gelatinosa on rotting wood in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Looking south from the Friendship Bridge, this view captures the recreational and spiritual side of the city, contrasting with the military fortifications seen on the other side. The prominent spire in the distance belongs to the Narva Alexander s Cathedral, an Evangelical Lutheran church built in the late 19th century. Its distinct octagonal tower is a major city landmark that survived severe damage during WWII. Along the riverbank, one see the modern architecture of the Joaorg Beach Building (the low, tiered structure nestled in the trees). This area serves as a popular public space with a swimming beach, gym, and promenade, offering locals a place to relax by the river. Estonia, October 16, 2025  Italian Pergola located in the Private Garden (Sobstvenny Sadik) of Catherine Park. The pergola was built in 1865 (mid-19th century) during the reign of Alexander II. It was designed specifically to be covered in climbing plants, creating a shaded walkway or "veranda" that offered respite from the sun while allowing views of the obelisk and the surrounding landscape. Pushkin (former Tsarskoe Selo) near Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Dyer s mazegill mushrooms (Phaeolus schweinitzii)(?) covered by a golden mold fungus in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Young rusty brown mushroom Buchwaldoboletus lignicola on the base of larch, parasitic of Ph. schweinitzii, in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Dyer s mazegill mushroom (Phaeolus schweinitzii)(?) at the base of larch covered by a golden mold fungus in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  This picturesque courtyard is located at Ru"u"tli 28, tucked away near the medieval city wall and the fortifications of Toompea. The site features a charming, small white building with red doors and window frames, nestled directly against the limestone cliff and city wall fortifications. The lush ivy covering the stone walls turns a vibrant red in autumn, creating a "fairytale" aesthetic that contrasts with the defensive nature of the surrounding structures. The wooden walkway visible above the cliff is part of the Kiek in de Ko"k Fortifications Museum complex. This gallery connects the Maiden Tower (Neitsitorn), the Stable Tower (Marstall), and the Kiek in de Ko"k artillery tower, allowing visitors to walk along the old defensive perimeter. The courtyard below sits in the shadow of these massive fortifications, which once protected the city from invaders. Estonia, October 16, 2025  Nuclear bomb factory in Negev Desert near Dimona (Israeli secret nuclear complex) described as "chocolate" or "textiles" factory. The domed structure glimmering on the sun to the right is the reactor built in 1958 by France, or Machon (block) No. 1. Cooling towers are clearly visible to the left. Palms and gardens are planted to obscure the facility from the road. The picture was taken from Road 25 at around 7:00 a.m. The Middle East, April 26, 2000  An old transformer substation (or similar utility building) in Lanskoy Garden on Sampsonievsky Prospekt near Lanskaya train Station. Its brick walls have effectively become an unofficial community billboard, covered in layers of concert posters (e.g., for the singer Linda). Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 9, 2025  Memorial Gates "To My Dear Fellow Servants", a historical monument located on the boundary of the Catherine Park in Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo). Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 10, 2025  Interior of St. Peter and St. Paul s Cathedral (Peeter-Pauli katedraal), located at Vene 18. This is the main cathedral for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tallinn and one of the few Catholic churches in a predominantly Protestant and secular country. The church was built between 1841 and 1844 on the walls of the former refectory (dining hall) of the medieval St. Catherine s Monastery. The Neoclassical fac,ade and twin towers were added later in the 1920s by architects Erich Jacoby and Franz de Vries. The space is characterized by its high vaulted ceilings and light, airy atmosphere. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  Gelatinous droplets of a fungus Hypocrea gelatinosa together with common glasscup fungus (Orbilia xanthostigma) in Lesnoy Park (Lesotekhnicheskiy Universitet). Saint Petersburg, Russia, July 30, 2017  Marriott Hotel complex at City Center in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, February 13, 2014  Convention Center and Marriott Hotel Complex in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, January 28, 2015  Pikk Street (Pikk ta"nav) in Tallinn s Old Town, specifically showing the facades of two notable Art Nouveau buildings at numbers 18 and 16. The building on the right with the dramatic facade featuring dragon sculptures is the famous "Dragon Gallery" (Draakoni galerii). Designed by architect Jacques Rosenbaum and completed in 1910, it is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture. The facade is adorned with fantastical elements, including two large dragons flanking the ground-floor window, Egyptian women, and sphinxes. It currently houses an art gallery managed by the Estonian Artists Association. The building directly next to it on the left (the narrower one with large windows) is Pikk 16. It currently houses the BonVerre shop, visible through the ground-floor window, which specializes in beverages and gourmet products. Further down the street on the left (the grey building with the green flag) is the Kanuti Gildi Saal (St. Canute s Guild Hall), a historic building that now serves as a contemporary performing arts center. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  A view along Lai Street (Lai ta"nav) in the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia, looking towards the iconic St. Olaf s Church. The dominant spire in the background belongs to St. Olaf s Church. This Gothic church was once the tallest building in the world (from 1549 to 1625), and its 124-meter spire remains a defining feature of the Tallinn skyline. As the name suggests, this is one of the wider medieval thoroughfares in the city, running parallel to the busier Pikk ("Long") Street. Historically, it was a prestigious residential area for wealthy merchants and artisans. The street is lined with well-preserved medieval merchant houses. The buildings on the right likely include or are near the famous "Three Brothers" complex (Lai 38, 40, and 42), a group of medieval gabled houses similar to the "Three Sisters" on Pikk Street. The building with the warm light in the window (foreground right) exemplifies the historic limestone architecture characteristic of the Hanseatic era. Tallinn, Estonia, October 16, 2025  This aerial view shows the suburban landscape of Coppell, Texas, where State Highway 121 merges with the Sam Rayburn Tollway, just north-northwest of DFW International Airport. The prominent highway is the confluence of SH 121 and the Sam Rayburn Tollway, a critical artery connecting the northern Dallas suburbs. The complex interchange and heavy traffic are characteristic of the DFW metroplex s extensive highway system. The natural waterway winding through the scene is Denton Creek. The creek and the surrounding ponds create a greenbelt that offers a natural buffer between the highway and residential areas . These water features are integral to the master-planned communities in Coppell, providing both drainage and recreational space. The dense, master-planned neighborhoods with their distinctive gray roofs are typical of Coppell. On the right, the development is part of the Riverchase area, while the homes in the upper left are also part of Coppell s extensive suburban grid. The large white buildings in the lower-left are warehouses and logistics centers, strategically located near DFW Airport and the major highway interchange for easy distribution. View from a window of an airplane from Helsinki to Dallas, Greenland, October 17, 2025  Princess Lieven s Island, a small artificial island located in the center of the Rose Pavilion Ponds in Pavlovsk Park. Pavlovsk, a suburb of Saint Petersburg, Russia, October 15, 2025 |
