Modern Hotel
The most interesting building along Zhongyang Street is the Modern Hotel, which was constructed in 1913 in a typical Baroque style of the Neo-artistic period. At first, it was invested and managed by a Jewish Frenchman. How the hotel got its name is unknown and once aroused the interest of the citizens. Once, a newspaper even opened a column for debates over its origin. Some held its Chinese name came from the word "mother," while others said it came from "modern." Nobody knows the exact name. However, the hotel now uses "Modern Hotel" as its English name.
There is a legendary oil painting, done by a famous Russian painter, hanging on a wall on the landing of the first floor. Said to have been inspired by Dante's Divine Comedy, the painting shows a pretty girl who endures tortures in hell. Confined by insects and demons, the girl is then rescued by angels and is about to fly to heaven. The painting was later restored after being painted red during the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976). Now, visitors can appreciate the original painting just in the hall of the hotel.
In the past few decades, the Modern Hotel has catered to many famous people, such as well-known Chinese writers Guo Moruo and Ding Ling, and renowned painter Xu Beihong. Those who have stayed here also include distinguished American celebrities such as Anna Louise Strong, Edgar Snow, and Yue-Sai Kan. Movie studios have shot movies here. "Harbin in the Dark Night," "London Inspiration," and "The Orient Express to Moscow" have left people with everlasting memories.
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