Today, Tretyakov Passage in Moscow is known as a street of boutiques, home to expensive stores of world brands. However, back in the mid-19th century, this place looked no less impressive. According to urban legend, the passage appeared by chance. Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov, a well-known patron, was once running late for business and got stuck in traffic on Nikolskaya Street. The slowly moving vehicles prevented him from arriving on time for a meeting. It was then that he had the idea to create a detour around Nikolskaya Street, which he proposed to his brother, the city mayor Sergey Mikhailovich.

The passage was designed not only to be functional but also to harmoniously fit into the architecture of Moscow. Architect Alexander Kaminsky took on the project, integrating the main entrance into the ancient wall of Kitai-Gorod and decorating it in Russian style: the gates were adorned with a tall tent, battlements, and towers with spires. Over time, leading commercial firms began to rent the available spaces. Here, retail outlets for the perfumery factories Brokar and Ralle opened, and later, the William Gabyu Trading House. The showcase of his store attracted attention with expensive pocket, wall, and floor clocks, as well as jewelry.

In the 1870s, the store of merchant Alexeev was also popular, where one could buy women's dresses, suits, blouses, and overcoats, as well as natural Ceylon tea. Over time, the passage became a true Mecca for fashionistas. Here, one could see luxurious carriages and gentlemen in expensive outfits. Tretyakov Passage lived lavishly until the 1920s. During the Soviet era, the shops closed, and administrative institutions occupied the buildings. Only in the 21st century did the passage regain its former appearance.