Tambov

May 5–6, 2014

I really liked Tambov.

Who would have thought Tambov had its own unique architectural feature? It consists of generous glass panes around the entire perimeter of the top floor of a building. This can be done in a way that’s pretty:

Amateurish:

Or simply talentless:

Of course, there’s enough horrible architecture in Tambov as well.

Enough to go around.

But there are also some streets that are downright pretty.

Not all the beautiful merchant houses have been demolished.

And if you tore down the advertising, spruced up the trees and laid down some lawns, the city would look like a million bucks.

The untrained eye might not notice how lovely some of the buildings are behind all the advertising.

Without the advertising, the lovely buildings would look two times lighter. And then you could call in the tourists.

Because the city is wonderful.

Look at how beautiful it is.

A standpipe.

An electronic display with bus and trolley schedules.

A bus stop.

A Tambov trash can isn’t complete without at least one curlicue.

The beauty of Tambov is that all the women have to wear heels.

Even in a parade.