When you think of the circus, you probably picture a classic “big top” tent, flying trapeze artists, and maybe some vintage controversy. But back in the day, the U.S.S.R. took the entire circus tradition and dialed it up to an eleven.
Instead of temporary tents, the Soviet government nationalized the circus and turned it into a massive propaganda machine. To show off their power and tech-savviness—especially during the 1960s Space Race—they commissioned dozens of permanent, year-round arenas. The result? Mind-blowing Soviet circus architecture that literally looks like concrete flying saucers landed in the middle of the city. These brutalist buildings are geometric, imposing, and honestly, kind of beautiful.
If you’re as obsessed with these retro-futuristic structures as I am, you need to check out the new Cirk book. The first half is packed with incredible photos and history lessons on these landmark arenas. But the absolute best part? The second half lets you get your hands dirty. It features five press-out paper models you can assemble yourself with just a bit of glue!
You can build miniature versions of iconic venues like the Great Moscow State Circus, the Chișinău State Circus, and stunning arenas in Bishkek, Dnipro, and Tashkent. It’s the perfect mix of history and DIY fun for your bookshelf.
