Ataman Palace

The Ataman Palace was being built from 1860 to 1863 on the project of architect Ivan Valprede. Soon it was decided that the Palace should serve as the residence not only of the Don Ataman, but of the Russian Emperor as well, if he came to Novocherkassk.^[2] In 1867, after the failed assassination attempt of Alexander II, a House Church of Saint Simeon of Persia was constructed at the palace.

During Russian Civil War, the Ataman Palace was the headquarters of the leaders of White Movement on the Don. In 1927, it housed District Executive Committee, a local administration office. On June 30, 1942, when Novocherkassk was occupied by the Wehrmacht, in the Ataman Palace was accommodated German military occupation office.

In 1998, the building was renovated and later was given to the Museum of Don Cossacks.^[1]

The facade of the place is designed in Classicist style. The twin pilasters at the ends of the corners of the risalite, a balcony decorated with a cast grid, entrances made in the form of open portals ― all of that give the building the look of a palace. Inside there are high vaulted ceremonial halls, cast-iron front staircase of made of thin figure molding.^[3]

47°14′37″N 40°03′38″E / 47.2436°N 40.0605°E / 47.2436; 40.0605