Hello to all! Modern people have many means to travel long distances. Trains are probably the most popular form of public transport. Railways and stations have become an integral part of cities. Train Stations are what tourists or city dwellers see when they get off or board a train. It is rare to see repeating train stations - each of them is unique in its own way. Each of them deserves special attention. This time I want to show you the Railway Station of my native city, which has become the starting point for me in many travels. This building differs from many others by the architectural symbiosis of modern architecture with the original building.
The first railway station on this site was built in November 1873. The first name is Osterman, in honor of the famous count and philanthropist Andrei Osterman. In the early 1900s, the city became a major railway junction, and the station building was greatly expanded. By the way, but the building was rebuilt and expanded throughout its existence.
Photo from the archive dating from the first half of 1900.
During the Second World War, the building was turned into ruins, but soon restored. Only in the early 2000s was a total reconstruction carried out. It was decided to expand the internal space of the railway station through the use of twisted metal structures and glass stained-glass windows. It turned out a kind of metal-glass cocoon. Two administrative complexes located on both sides remained original.
Nearby is a thematic monument - a steam locomotive, which was used in the last century. There is an interesting story connected with him. In city publics there was a repost competition in which the winner was promised to give this locomotive. Interesting prize, isn't it? It's not every day that entire trains are raffled off. Alas, some people took this joke seriously.
One of the features of this railway station is that parts of the old station are located inside. Going inside you can see the high arches that were part of the former building. A kind of museum under a glass dome. Figuratively speaking, the modern building has swallowed up its predecessor. But in my opinion this is an excellent architectural solution. I don't see that often.
The station inside has two floors, but the second floor is quite small. In fact, both outside and inside the building is symmetrical. In the center there are two high massive arches, and on each side of them there are two small ones. Without these architectural elements of the former building, the room would look empty.
Currently, the railway station is one of the sights of the city. Some people like this railway station. There are also critics. But I often hear positive feedback from tourists in the city. Among regional cities, it really stands out from other stations. The architects managed to preserve the features of the former building by making a kind of museum of architecture inside the modern building. Do you think the station looks pretentious or interesting?
Photo information:
Author: @danny.green
Camera: Xiaomi Redmi Note 9 Pro
Location: Zhlobin, Belarus
Thanks to everyone who reads and supports. Best regards from @danny.green.