Pokrovskie Vorty Square got its name in honor of the gates that once stood in the wall of the White City, the third defensive ring of Moscow, built in the late 16th century by the famous architect Fyodor Kon. Over two centuries, the fortress fell into disrepair, and enterprising residents of the capital began to dismantle it for building materials, while gardens were planted on the ramparts. The treasury had no funds for repairs, so in 1764, Catherine II issued a decree for the dismantling of the walls and towers of the White City. Boulevards appeared in place of the walls, and a square in place of the gates.

In the early 19th century, by order of Emperor Paul I, two-story hotels were built on the foundations of the 16th century at all former gates of the White City, likely designed by architect V.P. Stasov. These buildings, known as 'Stasov hotels', were built in pairs, one opposite the other. Over time, they were remodeled and expanded, and most of them were demolished in the 20th century. However, both hotels at Pokrovsky Gates have preserved their original appearance. They are now buildings No. 17, str. 1 and No. 16 on Pokrovka Street.

Building No. 17, constructed between 1805 and 1825, is located on Chistoprudny Boulevard and is a closed quadrangle with an inner courtyard. The construction was financed by merchant Guseva, who by the early 1820s had purchased the entire block between Chistoprudny Boulevard and Pokrovka.

The first floor of the building housed shops and stores, while the upper floor contained hotel rooms and rental apartments. The courtyard was equipped with places for horses.

The facade facing the boulevard is adorned with an eight-pillar portico of the Tuscan order with a triangular pediment. This part of the building was completed by 1825.

In the pediment, there is an interesting wall sign 'Strengthening the Defense of the USSR', relating to another era. This sign 'Ready for PVC' was installed in 1937 by the Central Council of Osoaviakhim for residential organizations. To obtain it, all residents, including children, had to have gas masks and know how to use them, as well as meet the standards of 'Ready for PVC' Level I.

The facade on the eastern passage is decorated with wide archivolts above the shop windows and a triangular pediment above the upper floor windows. From the side of Pokrovka, the house previously had a six-column portico, giving the building a strict and solemn appearance.

The building is protected as a cultural heritage site of federal significance.