A series about the fate of one of Moscow's most celebrated districts – Arbat Street and its surrounding area. The very word "Arbat" has become a symbol of intelligence, masculinity, and decency. The development of this remarkable district is traced through generations of "Arbat boys," beginning with Lermontov and Herzen. A unifying theme is the life of one of the most famous "Arbat boys" of the 20th century – artist Boris Birger, a friend of many Arbat residents, from Okudzhava to Sakharov. Through his life and work, the common traits of the "Arbat character" are revealed.