Monotown

Soviet Landscapes of Post-Insutrial Russia

A photographic exploration of the Soviet monotowns − urban settlements erected around single industries in the hinterlands of the former USSR −; some thriving, others struggling to survive, still others partially abandoned.

Through nine chapters with over 130 photographs taken by Russian photographer Alexander Veryovkin, Monotowns by Zupagrafika captures the post-industrial landscapes and Soviet-era architecture of the monogorods extending from the Arctic Circle to the Russian Far East, such as Vorkuta, Norilsk, Mirny, Kirovsk, Tolyatti, Cherepovets, Magnitogorsk, Monchegorsk and Nikel, and the daily lives of their inhabitants.

Includes informative texts providing a valuable insight into the urban development of the featured cities and a foreword by the architectural critic Konstantin Budarin.

Monotowns is a follow-up to Concrete Siberia and Eastern Blocks. On this occasion, Zupagrafika expanded their research onto the Russian 'monocities' and invited Alexander to capture a selection of them. The pictures featured here were taken over a two-year period during winter, with temperatures reaching -35° Celsius in some locations.

Authors: Zupagrafika (David Navarro & Martyna Sobecka); Alexander Veryovkin (photography)

Words, edition: Zupagrafika ‍

Foreword: Konstantin Budarin

Publisher: Zupagrafika © 2021 for all the images. All rights reserved

14-day returns

On items eligible for returns, you have 14 days from delivery to submit a return request. Learn more.

Ordering between the UK and the EU?

There are no hidden fees or additional charges once you’ve paid for your order. Enjoy hassle-free cross-border shopping. Learn more