ZIL is a cultural center, which is often called the first and the best DC of the capital. Built in the 30s of the last century, the palace is designed in the style of early constructivism. Today it is a modern multi-disciplinary municipal cultural institution.
Historical background and architectural features
The construction of the new Palace of Culture was started in 1931 according to the project of the architect brothers L.A. And A.A. Vesnin. The main idea of the authors was the creation of a center for the diversified development of the "new generation". Initially, it was calculated that a significant part of the palace area would be allocated for training architects to create similar projects. The building is constructed in the style of fashionable then early constructivism. The grand opening of the new facility took place in 1937. The multifaceted center entered the history of our country as a palace of culture of the Likhachev plant. The building is striking in its scale and original architectural forms. For its time, it was the embodiment of the progress of engineering thought. ZIL (cultural center) is characterized by a simple and logical layout. Thanks to the use of a competent combination of glass and concrete, with its volume the palace looks soaring above the ground. The facades of the building have regular geometric shapes and are advantageously complemented by protruding balconies, cylinders of staircases.
Activities of ZIL
Immediately after the opening of ZIL (cultural center) has become an incredibly popular place for leisure among many residents of Moscow. A large auditorium, lecture hall, a lot of circles for children and adults, a winter garden, a library - everything was here to interestingly and profitably spend time. On the roof of the palace of culture was equipped with an observatory. Many families spent all weekends in this multifaceted center. The Palace of Culture safely worked before the start of the Second World War. During the war the building suffered from bombing, but it was subject to restoration. Reconstruction was carried out, and the cultural center continued its activities.
From the old DK to the modern center
After the collapse of the USSR ZIL (cultural center) experienced a period of decline, like many other similar institutions. In 2008, the palace was transferred to the Moscow Government. The building was in need of serious reconstruction, since many years it was not even carried out routine repairs. In addition, many organizational and functional solutions of the internal premises are hopelessly outdated. Before the restorers had a difficult task: to restore the original appearance of the palace as accurately as possible and adapt it for the needs of a modern multi-cultural center. After the reconstruction in the renovated complex, an auditorium, a modern cinema, a large library, an art cafe, as well as many creative and scientific circles of interest were opened.
Today ZIL cultural center (Moscow) is an ideal place for family leisure. There are regularly held performances and film screenings for every taste. The conference hall organizes lectures and master classes with leading specialists of various fields. There is a club for expectant mothers, and also an early development group for children from 1.5 years old. For preschoolers and students of educational institutions, creative development studios (from art history to ceramics), dance studio, chess club, music and theater studios are open. In the cultural center there is also an evening school and an extended day group, courses of foreign languages. There are also modern scientific circles, whose classes are devoted to the study of chemistry, programming, robotics.
The ZIL Cultural Center also offers a variety of courses for adults. Parents, bringing the children to the classes, will not be bored - you can visit the art cafe, the library. There is also a bookcrossing zone (free book exchange), a bookstore, in all lobbies there is free wi-fi.
ZIL Cultural Center: how to get there by private and public transport?
Until the renovated palace of culture, it is easy to get there by public or private transport. The nearest metro station is Avtozavodskaya. Exit should be in the direction of the street Masterkova, then walk to Leninskaya Sloboda Street, then cross the road. Very soon you will see the majestic facade of the palace in front of you. The cultural center ZIL address has the following: Vostochnaya Street, 4, building 1. On weekdays the complex is open from 11.00 to 20.00, on weekends and holidays from 10.00 to 19.00. Follow the schedule of events and do not miss an interesting event!