Unusual Peredelkino: The House of Creativity, Park, and Creative Residencies

Peredelkino is a historic suburban settlement and a famous literary town. It was here that the great writers of the last century lived and created masterpieces: Boris Pasternak, Konstantin Paustovsky, Bulat Okudzhava, Korney Chukovsky, Eugeniy Evtushenko… The list could go on for a long time.

Photo: pro-peredelkino.org

The settlement has a rich history. In the 17th century, the area of modern Peredelkino was home to a settlement called Perdeltsy, which belonged to the Samarin family. Here, the philosopher Yuri Samarin grew up, who first filled this place with an atmosphere of creativity and a desire for new knowledge. In the 20th century, Maxim Gorky proposed to the government to create a place where distinguished writers could not only work but also enjoy nature in country houses.

Peredelkino was chosen to build a dacha settlement. In 1935, residents gradually moved into the literary town, and 20 years later, the legendary House of Creativity was established in the settlement.

Peredelkino remains a center of attraction for creative people seeking inspiration. We tell you how to spend your time usefully in this unique settlement.

Walking Tours

Walking tours through iconic spots in the settlement immerse visitors in an incredible atmosphere of the past. Visitors will walk along the same paths that Pasternak once walked, admiring landscapes he described in his works. Those who wish can also stroll down the main avenue of Peredelkino or visit the dacha town 'Sixty-Niners'.

The Revived House of Creativity

The House of Creativity for Writers first opened its doors in 1955: it was there that great creative personalities of the 20th century spent their weekdays. The main attraction was a library where books signed by authors were kept. Unfortunately, in the 21st century, the legendary place became empty. But a year ago, the House of Creativity was reborn: the space was renovated and restored, and now life is bubbling again. The reading room, terrace, and exhibition spaces are all open to guests once more.

Art Camp

Peredelkino has long been directly associated with creation. It's no surprise that people come here for inspiration, and the settlement joyfully welcomes those who wish to join. In Peredelkino, creative weekends are held: creators of creative products can apply for organizing an art camp, which opens space for new masterpieces.

Photo: facebook.com/DomTvorchestvaPeredelkino

Meshchersky Park

Located just a few minutes' walk from the House of Creativity, the picturesque Meshchersky Park is perfect for both walking and cycling. The park has children's play zones and special areas for pets. Over the years, many notable figures from various eras have visited Meshchersky Park: from Ivan the Terrible and Napoleon to Bulat Okudzhava and Quentin Tarantino.

Creative Events

Interesting creative events are held in the legendary town of writers. For example, in April, those who wished could test their literacy in the 'Total Dictation', attend an open recording of a podcast about 'Harry Potter', or listen to an interview with Fyekla Tolstaya by Igor Zolotusky. The program is quite packed, so everyone will find something to their liking.

Photo: facebook.com/DomTvorchestvaPeredelkino

Creative Residencies

Many people dreamed of living and working in this historical settlement, and now such an opportunity has finally come. Since spring 2021, the House of Creativity has become a permanently operating residency. Organizers provide accommodation, meals, workspaces, and help arrange meetings with experts. There are several options for staying on the premises. An individual residency involves working on a creative project for three weeks. Every year, the House of Creativity supports foreign artists and researchers, as well as organizes thematic residencies.

Photo: facebook.com/DomTvorchestvaPeredelkino

The Laboratory

Twice a year, laboratories are organized on the territory of Peredelkino. Up to 40 participants from various creative fields gather in the historical settlement. Work is continuous: each laboratory has its own theme. The program lasts two weeks, and its impressive result is the final presentation of joint projects.

Translation Workshop

The translation workshop is an important area for the House of Creativity, supporting the development of literary translation. Every month, six translators have the opportunity to spend a week in residence, communicate with masters of translation art, learn their invaluable experience, attend lectures, and apply their knowledge in practice.

Lectures

Not only poetry, but also fascinating lectures are held in the walls of the House of Creativity. Scientists tell about the emergence of life on Earth, the origin of language, and even analyze memes. It seems here guests can find answers to any questions they may have.

Photo: facebook.com/DomTvorchestvaPeredelkino

Concerts

Certainly, art cannot be imagined without music. In the House of Creativity, visitors can spend an unforgettable evening: in April, connoisseurs already heard the performance of 24 Preludes by Ivan Vyshnegradsky, enjoyed the poetry of Nikolai Gumilev accompanied by ancient African instruments, and watched silent films with live electronic-acoustic soundtracks.