This temple of knowledge occupies the building of the former Assignation Bank. Designed by Quarenghi, the horseshoe-shaped structure was built in 1783-1790. In front of the bank there is another city’s landmark – the Bank Bridge - built in the 1825-1826. The bridge is decorated with fantastic griffons with gilded wings and lights. They hold the ends of metal chains attached to the consoles hidden inside the figures.
