For 24 hours, this venue entertained the public: discover the location and appearance of the theater-brothel in Kharkiv.

In the early 20th century, Kharkiv was vibrant and offered a wide range of entertainment options to its residents and visitors. Among the most notable leisure establishments in the city was the "Zhatkin Villa" – a complex that combined a theater, amusement park, and a brothel.

We will tell you where this building was located and what unfortunate fate befell it.

What the "Zhatkin Villa" Looked Like and What It Was Known For

In 1909, Kharkiv merchant of the first guild, Vasily Vasilyevich Zhatkin, purchased the Small Theater and the adjacent "Bavaria" garden along the Kharkiv waterfront for a substantial sum for that time. The theater was built in 1902 according to the design of architect Yuliy Tsaund and had undergone several reconstructions by 1909, increasing its capacity to a thousand spectators.

Zhatkin was an experienced entrepreneur and already owned the "Tivoli," "Buff," and "Country Versailles" gardens, making the new project a logical extension of his entertainment business. However, the "Zhatkin Villa" was envisioned as something more – a place where one could enjoy art during the day and indulge in pleasures at night.

After the purchase, Zhatkin initiated extensive reconstruction of the theater and surrounding areas. As noted by "Kharkiv Alluring", a private power station was built here, and a tram line was even laid to the theater for the convenience of the public.

The "Zhatkin Villa" quickly gained popularity among the townspeople. Morning performances were followed by daytime strolls and attractions in the garden, while evenings featured balls, farces, and musical shows. Renowned artists and singers performed here, drawing crowds from all over the city.

The establishment was particularly famous for its evening repertoire. It showcased "cinema for men," and one of the theater’s wings housed a brothel. The venue gained a scandalous reputation, which only increased the influx of visitors.

The splendor and luxury of the "Zhatkin Villa" were short-lived. In 1915, the establishment was sold at auction due to creditor demands and came under the ownership of Vasily Pashchenko. During the Soviet era, various theaters were located here, including the Russian Drama Theater and the Jewish Folk Theater "Unzer Winkl."

When World War II began, the building of the former "Zhatkin Villa" did not survive the bombings – it was destroyed. Today, a multi-story building stands in its place.

Previously, "Telegraph" reported on a unique street in Dnipro. There are no buildings on this street, and part of it is a bridge over a park.