1806-8. Architect D. Quarenghi

The Smolny building was designed to house the 
most privileged closed educational institution for 
the nobility - the Institute for Young Ladies of 
Noble Birth, founded as early as 1764. 
Architecturally it  embodies the main features of 
high Classicism:  monumental forms, accuracy 
of design and laconic proportionality. Its central 
part is accentuated with an Ionic portico topped 
with a pediment. Protruding side wings outline 
the front  courtyard. Interior layout is simple and 
rational.  It is characteristic of the educational 
institutions  that were being put up in the 18th - 
early 19th centuries. Class-room and dormitories 
are arranged on both sides of wide long 
corridors. Artistically of most interest is the large 
two-tier Assembly Hall. The hall space is divided 
into three parts by columns. In wall decoration 
Quarenghi made use of a plastic frieze and the 
figure of the flying Glory placed over the 
entrance. The ceiling in side bays is ornamented 
with rosettes inclosed in caissons. The Smolny 
Assembly Hall is one of the best samples of 
reception halls in Russian classical architecture.