Matvey Kazakov: Architect and Power

The purpose of the publication is to analyze the political events that influenced the architectural plans of the outstanding architect Matvey Fedorovich Kazakov, the reasons for the intervention of statesmen in the architectural process. The significance of the real contribution of M. F. Kazakov to the development of Russian architecture is analyzed. The methodological basis of the study is a set of general scientific and special historical methods. The study is based on a problem-historical analysis, taking into account the social conditions of that time. The work of M. F. Kazakov was one of the earliest and most striking examples of combining the best features of European and Russian architecture, is directly related to the socio-historical processes that took place in Russia in the 18th century, and is considered a turning point in Russian history. The complex vicissitudes of his life, the results of his work, which reflect the key problems of Russian culture of the 18th century, are studied. The relationship with another outstanding Russian architect Vasily Ivanovich Bazhenov is considered.