On the Red Embankment in Astrakhan stands the unique estate of merchant Mikhail Akimovich Shelekhov, a jewel of local architecture. In the early 20th century, Shelekhov was a successful and wealthy trader engaged in the sale of fish and the export of black and red caviar abroad. During that time, he decided to build a spacious and beautiful house for his family. The name of the architect of this building is unknown, but some local historians suggest it could have been the Astrakhan architect Konstantin Domontovich.

The estate is designed in an eclectic style with vibrant asymmetry and a tall observation tower. The main facade is adorned with rich stucco in a pseudo-Renaissance style. The house has long been recognized as a monument of pre-revolutionary architecture. A sad legend is associated with the estate: it is said that the housewarming did not bring happiness to the merchant, as shortly after moving in, his daughter died of tuberculosis. In her memory, Shelekhov allegedly ordered a life-sized statue of his daughter from Italy and decorated the facade with her image. Rumors claimed that he even slept next to this statue. However, archival data indicates that his daughter Maria lived a long and happy life, though not in Astrakhan. After the revolution, she emigrated to Europe and then to America.

In 1922, the estate was nationalized and a tuberculosis dispensary was established there. The building has been well maintained, with white tiled stoves and decorative walls preserved. The dispensary continues to operate in this house to this day. Some Astrakhan city defenders believe that the old estate should be turned into a museum, as it is an important architectural adornment of the city.