The Northern River Terminal of Moscow

A Historical Landmark Restored to its Former Glory

The Palace of the Northern River Terminal is a unique piece of architectural heritage from the 1930s. During the reconstruction works, the restoration team made every effort to preserve most of the original elements of the building and interior details, while also overhauling the missing parts according to historical patterns. The result is a faithful restoration that brings back the terminal's former glory.

The design of the Northern River Terminal is a successful synthesis of architecture, sculpture, and painting, making it an outstanding example of the Stalinist Empire style. The building's basement is made of polished red granite, while the main portals are crafted from gray-green diorite. The color composition, combined with the whiteness of the gallery columns, enhances the expressiveness of the building. The architects also took advantage of the natural slope of the land towards the embankment, creating a seamless transition from two floors on the park side to three floors on the quayside.

With a total area of 5.3 km2 and a length of 150 meters, the three-floor palace stands tall with a steeple reaching 27 meters in height. Surrounding the terminal is a vast green area spanning approximately 100 hectares, providing a serene and picturesque environment for visitors.

The restoration project not only aimed to preserve the historical significance of the river terminal but also to adapt it for contemporary usage. Today, the Northern River Terminal can accommodate up to 4 vessels at a time and 24 vessels per day. During its peak season, the terminal is expected to serve 1.5 million passengers. Additionally, the restored palace-terminal can once again be used as a filming location and a venue for city events.

The restoration works for the Northern River Terminal began in August 2018 and were completed in September 2020. The project involved various entities, including the Government of Moscow, the Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development, the Department of Cultural Heritage, and several other organizations specializing in engineering and geology. Extensive research and planning were conducted to ensure the preservation of the terminal's original appearance while incorporating modern technologies and materials.

The Northern River Terminal restoration project has received recognition for its outstanding design and execution. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the City Planning and Urban Design category in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life in urban environments.

The Northern River Terminal of Moscow stands as a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage and its commitment to preserving historical landmarks. With its grandeur restored, the terminal invites visitors to experience the charm of the past while enjoying the modern amenities it now offers.