Dacha: The Soviet Country Cottage

Experience the charm and beauty of a vanishing era with Dacha: The Soviet Country Cottage Book. This breathtaking collection of photographs captures the essence of dachas - traditional wooden country houses used by Soviet citizens as a getaway from city life. The importance of this architectural and cultural form cannot be overlooked, and yet it has been largely ignored academically. Fyodor Savintsev's stunning images offer a unique glimpse into a rapidly disappearing fairy-tale wooden world, making this book an invaluable record of history.

From grand imperial villas to humble small sheds, the word "dacha" encompasses a wide range of constructions. Originally a reward from the Tsar to courtiers, this tradition continued throughout the Soviet era, with cooperative societies building dachas for their members. While supposedly for the laborers' benefit, they often ended up in the hands of the State's favorites, including renowned writers, architects, and artists such as Pasternak and Prokofiev. The collapse of the Soviet Union only heightened the demand for dachas, as economic uncertainty pushed city dwellers towards self-sufficiency.

Revolution, war, and the fall of Communism could not extinguish the enduring allure of the dacha tradition. It has withstood the test of time, becoming an inseparable part of life for many. Dacha: The Soviet Country Cottage Book showcases these delightfully individual buildings like never before. Savintsev's contemporary photographs bring their unique charm to life, while an introduction provides invaluable historical and cultural context. No other publication offers such a comprehensive and captivating exploration of dachas.

Don't miss your chance to delve into the enchanting world of dachas with Dacha: The Soviet Country Cottage Book. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of these wooden wonders before they fade away completely. Order your copy now and start your journey into an extraordinary past. Click here to order.