At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, one of the most famous architects in Russia was Fyodor Osipovich Shekhtel. However, the neglect and hostile attitude of the Soviet era towards pre-revolutionary buildings have led to him being remembered by few. Many of his most beautiful constructions are in a deplorable state. Unfortunately, one of these dilapidated buildings is the main house of the ancient estate of the first guild merchant Alexander Alexeevich Lokalov.

Surprisingly, Fyodor Osipovich was unable to complete his professional education, as he was expelled due to poor academic performance. After that, he began working outside of Moscow and soon proved himself to be a talented architect. One of his first works was the construction of the Lokalov estate in the village of Velikoye, located in what is now Yaroslavl Oblast. The construction began in 1888 and was completed in 1890, after which merchant Lokalov moved there with his family.

The large manor house was built in the neo-Russian style, which at that time, under the influence of patriotic ideas of Slavophilism, became very popular in Russia. The young architect applied many architectural techniques and elements that later became his signature style. The main house of the estate resembled a Russian terem with references to the Faceted Chamber.

Unfortunately, in our time, after a period of neglect during the Soviet years, only a dilapidated mansion, gates with a wrought-iron fence, and a carriage house remain of the once magnificent estate. All other elements, including the beautiful garden and various outbuildings, were destroyed after confiscation and looting by the Soviet authorities.