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The building of the General Staff was constructed from the design of the outstanding architect of the Russian Classicism style Carlo Rossi in 1820-1827. The building of the General Staff characterized by Classical strictness occupies a vast space from Nevsky prospect to the bend of the Moika river. The main accent in the composition of the facade facing the Palace Square is put on the magnificent arch - the symbol of triumph of Russia. The triumphal chariot, drawn by six horses, and sculptural compositions of the arch - statues of warriors, high reliefs representing flying figures of geniuses of Glory and armour - were executed to the designs of Rossi by Vasily Demut-Malinovski and Stepan Pimenov. Special expressiveness of the building is produced by combination of the severe and neutral facade with the monumental central part, lavishly decorated with sculptures, and rythmically arranged well-proportioned columns of the porticos of the side wings. The ground floor is decorated with rusticated socle, the windows of the main first floor are surrounded with platbands and ledges, the upper part of the wall is accentuated by means of the stucco eaves. The Eastern wing of the building, now belonging to the Hermitage Museum, was meant for the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Finances.Three porticos of the strict Tuscany order accentuated by projectures add imposing solemnity to the long facade facing the Moika river. The splendid building designed by Rossi completed forming of the ensemble of the Palace Square.