In the heart of Tashkent, amidst the urban sprawl, lies a monument that stands out for its unique history and architectural charm—the residence of Prince Nikolay Konstantinovich Romanov. Constructed in 1891, this one-story edifice was the brainchild of architects A.L. Benoit and V.S. Geyntseltsman. It served as the domicile of the exiled grandson of Emperor Nicholas I, who, after being banished by his royal lineage in 1877, made Tashkent his home until his demise in 1918.
The residence of Prince Romanov was a testament to the «modern» architectural style that was en vogue during that era. Its façade boasted an array of ornate features, including intricately carved grilles, windows of unique designs, and decorative towers. Reflecting the duke’s passion for hunting, the main entrance was adorned with bronze sculptures of deer and hunting hounds. The rear of the residence opened up to a sprawling garden, a creation of the renowned Tashkent botanist and pharmacist I.I. Krause.
The palace’s interior received as much attention as its exterior, with halls paneled in dark oak and embellished with carved cornices and gilded paintings. The main hall served as a crossroads, with three doors leading to the private chambers of the prince and his consort. The left wing of the residence was dedicated to leisure and knowledge, housing a billiard room, a library, and a dining area, while the right wing was a sanctuary of nature, featuring a greenhouse and a Japanese garden. One wing of the building was transformed into a menagerie, where the prince kept a collection of wild animals native to the region, which he opened to the public on Sundays.
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