A blend of Art Nouveau and Neoclassicism, the Astoria is one of the most beautiful luxury hotels in the city. Built in 1911 by Feodor Lidval, it attracted a wealthy cosmopolitan clientele until the revolution, when it became the headquarters for the Petrograd Soviet. In 1941 it was nearly requisitioned by Hitler, who wanted to celebrate his taking of the city here. Today it has regained its initial vocation and hosts heads of state and movie stars from around the world.