Religion has had a great influence on Russian architecture. Sharp-sloping roofs, dome-like structures, tent-shaped spires, etc., are some of the common characteristics of their style of architecture. Onion-shaped domes was one of the most distinctive features of Russian architecture. Its shape is similar to a candle flame, which was believed to be the flame of faith reaching up to the heavens. These domes help shed rain and prevent snow build-up. Another characteristic of this architecture is that the church's icons are mounted on the altar in a hierarchical fashion. 11th century Russian architecture was greatly influenced by Byzantine models. This was the period when the church fundamentals started to appear. Apart from being inspired by Byzantine models, building construction was also hugely inspired by the Romanesque culture of Western Europe. The Byzantine-inspired churches usually had a dome structure, and more importance was given to the interiors. The churches were mainly made either by circular or axial plans. Structures had vaulted exteriors in order to form a cross. During the 12th century, church architecture drifted a bit from the regular circular dome-shaped churches to tall churches. Kokoshnik, i.e. a curved structure above the dome was created. Even pyramidal-shaped structures were seen in a few Muscovite churches. The construction of the tent-roofed structures began in this era. The usage of limestone instead of bricks also became popular during this century. The 13th century saw the rise of the Novgorod period, where the concept of the sloping roof was introduced. The domes were now helmet-shaped and structures usually had one dome. The three-fold division of the exterior walls and pointed domes were seen in the constructions of this era. Also, art flourished in the regions under the Tatars. The rise of tower churches with vertical arrangement of chapels and porches marked the church architecture during this period. During this century, a lot of foreign architects were hired to design buildings, and they have gone on to become major tourist attractions today. This era also saw a few wooden edifices that were constructed, the Kizhi being a prominent one. The first frescoes were painted in fresh colors in many monasteries. Many churches were built that had wooden carvings on them. Many multi-domed buildings were constructed during this period. The revival of bricks in many constructions were seen in regions like Novgorod and Pskov. The first cathedral in the Moscow Kremlin complex was constructed in this period. There was also a fall in wooden constructions, as the then Tsar Ivan III ordered demolishing of all wooden structures that were surrounding the Kremlin. Glimpses of Italian influence can be seen in the structures of this period. Tented-roof structures marked the architecture of this era. The Kolomenskoye Church was the first tent-like brick structure to be built. The development of architectural plans took place in this period, which is also known as the 'High Renaissance' architectural period in history. Also, tiered towers in churches were introduced, and the cupolas were substituted by bulb-like spires. The first clock was incorporated in a tower during this period. By the end of this century, the use of decorative elements increased in church architecture, and cult construction was on the rise. Large churches with bell towers, multiple cupolas, and aisles were built. The edifices, especially the churches, had asymmetric construction with oddly-shaped cupolas and arches. A lot of western architects were hired by the then Tsars to design a few key buildings. The face of Russian architecture changed during this period. This era saw a more methodical construction pattern with symmetric structures and geometric shapes. The 'rule book' construction phase began during these times. Baroque-styled cathedrals were constructed in most of the eastern cities. Among other prominent architects, the rise of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli was the most significant development in the world of architecture. His magnificent structures were the highlights of St. Petersburg. The 19th century was mainly dominated by the Byzantine and Russian Revival. During the first quarter of this century, there was Greek Revival which prevailed up to the middle of the century. Reconstruction of the cities using massive design plans and technical advances was the main priority during that period. In 1918, Alexey Shchusev and Ivan Zholtovsky founded the Mossovet Architectural Workshop, where planning of the reconstruction of Moscow as a new Soviet capital took place. But after World War II, the focus was on reconstructing the destroyed buildings and building new ones. In 1945, Stalin changed the look of many post-war cities. After his death in 1953, social and political changes took place in the country, which brought an end to Stalinist architecture. As a result, the buildings became simple and square-shaped. 20th century construction witnessed a mix of the neoclassicism and skyscraper style. The avant-garde architecture period marked this era's architectural style. A few architects used a limited color range. Due to the downfall of the Soviet Union, many architectural projects were canceled or put on hold. The theme or height of a building was no longer the main criteria, and this improved the financial conditions and architectural rates in Russia. As a result, skyscrapers were constructed in Moscow city, though, some architects continued to follow the Stalinist architectural style, and constructed buildings like the Triumph Palace. Russian architecture highlights the history, culture, ethnicity and religious diversity of its people. This architecture can be regarded as one of the richest and magnificent architectures in the world.