One of the oldest buildings in modern Moscow is the current premises of the Helikon-Opera theater, built in the mid-18th century. The exact year of its foundation is unknown, but the documented history of the estate begins in 1768, when it belonged to Mr. Glebov. Nowadays, few people know about the existence of such a place and its high status. Over different periods, the Glebov house frequently hosted three Russian empresses: Maria Feodorovna, Elizabeth Feodorovna, and Alexandra Feodorovna.

After Glebov's death, the building passed to his widow, born Streshneva. During the fire of 1812, the mansion was severely damaged but survived and in the mid-19th century became the property of Princess Shakhovskaya. Yevgenia Petrovna, a wealthy and educated woman, acquired the neighboring estate and soon built a private theater there. The previous building was also reconstructed and retained mentions of Princess Shakhovskaya, one of the most memorable owners of the estate.

Over time, Yevgenia Petrovna lost interest in her properties, moved from Bolshaya Nikitskaya, and began renting out the estate. In 1916, one of the halls was rented by director Tairov for his theater, and after the arrival of Soviet power, the princess's property was confiscated. However, history repeated itself, and in 1990, the Helikon-Opera theater opened in the former house of Shakhovskaya.