As you can imagine, we do a bit of research here at OnlyInYourState.com and every so often we encounter an oddball, weird fact that’s worth sharing (like these 11 facts that are almost too bizarre to believe). But this one involves a notorious international regime known for dictators – and a famous building in West Virginia. Can you put it together yet? If not, read on…
Want to know the biggest (literally) thing the Mountain State has in common with Russia? It all comes down to two buildings; in particular it involves the construction of said buildings.
Practically everyone in West Virginia is familiar with the famous Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. It operated as a state psychiatric hospital from 1864 to 1994. Over the 130 years the asylum was in operation, scores of people died in this building. It currently operates as a facility where ghost tours can be taken, day and night.The massive structure is constructed from hand-cut sandstone, a labor-intensive process. At 242,000 square feet it has something in common with one of the most notorious buildings in Russia. The Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is a hand-cut sandstone building that is second is size only to the official residence of the Russian Dictator.
The Grand Kremlin Palace, the official home of Vladimir Putin (although it may not be his common residence) is the largest building in the world made of hand-cut sandstone. At 259,410 square feet, the Palace is only slightly bigger than the lunatic asylum in West Virginia.
The interiors are, of course, quite different in style. Shown below is The Hall of the Order of St. Vladimir in the Grand Kremlin Palace. As an official state building it has opulence and flair.
To the contrary, the current rendition of the lunatic asylum (as a haunted tours facility and sometimes event venue) is more down to earth and provides maximum comfort for both visitors — and ghosts.
Also, look closely at this photo. Can you say for sure which building this is? Is it the Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum — or is it a close up of detail work on the facade of the Grand Kremlin Palace? In the photo shown above, the foundation of the palace (approximately 10 feet high) is exposed, unpainted sandstone just like in this photo. What do you think?
