Bolshaya Sadovaya Street became the main street of Rostov-on-Don in the 1870s. The street got the name ‘Sadovaya’ (which can be translated as ‘Garden Street’) because city gardens grew there. It was decided to build only stone and multi-storey buildings in this street. Russia's most celebrated architects made construction designs for them. Just like 100 years ago, these buildings are crown jewels of our city. At the turn of the 20th century, a European polish of Rostov-on-Don was most visible in this street. In 1904, Russky Turist, St Petersburg's magazine, left the following description of the street: "The main street, Sadovaya, is Nevsky Avenue of Rostov. Indeed, this street may well be treated as equal to our Nevsky Avenue of St Petersburg, though it is not so wide as Nevsky. The sidewalks are covered with asphalt; apart from it, there are alleys adjacent to the pavement, which St Petersburg is missing. The street enjoys electric lighting, which is very good; the distance between street lamps is significantly smaller than in St Petersburg. The houses are built in stone and boast fine, light architectural appearance. The new building for the city administration is of special note — it is marvelously beautiful and grandiose. The shops are absolutely French in their appearance."
