Brutalism was one of the most influential, but also divisive architectural movements of the 20th century. Characterised by the use of raw concrete, dramatic large scale shapes and textured surfaces, the style was adopted by architects across the globe. But there was one region that developed a special fondness towards brutalist architecture – the Soviet Union.

Many Soviet cities are characterised by concrete boxes, that look roughly the same from Riga in Latvia to Vladivostok in the far east of Russia. Often referred to as either Khrushchyovkas or Brezhnevkas, they are regularly seen as an unfortunate legacy of the Communist era.  But some Soviet creations from the mid to late 20th century are truly unique, striking and sometimes wacky.

Here we explore the most striking examples of Soviet Brutalist architecture, ranging from abandoned concrete palaces to beautiful creations that blend local styles with overarching Communist ideals.

Opened in 1975, this slightly curious looking building is one of the most iconic Soviet era structures in the Georgian capital. It served as a building for the Ministry of Highway Construction, though from 2007 onwards it has been the main office of the Bank of Georgia.

This is not an UFO that landed on the Black Sea coast, but a sanatorium built in 1985. Moscow built hundreds of these across the USSR, to allow workers to rest and recharge. Many of these complexes are still in use today, with the Sanatorium in Kurpaty being no exception.

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