The Moscow Kremlin is a complex of unique architectural structures, evidence of past eras, and a state historical and cultural museum-reserve.
The Assumption and Annunciation Cathedrals continue to receive parishioners, while at the same time being part of the museum exhibition. As for the Diamond Fund and the Armory Chamber, these are world treasuries that introduce visitors to works of art from various fields.
Separate exhibits were the Tsar Bell and the Tsar Cannon, which have a rich and interesting story. The palaces and chambers were restored and partially transferred to the residences of top officials and administrative buildings. To get a detailed look at the Moscow Kremlin, you need to spend more than one day here.
What to see and do on the territory of the Moscow Kremlin? The most interesting excursions!
List of the best tourist sites - museums and exhibitions, cathedrals and temples, towers and walls. Photos with names and descriptions of the main attractions.
Towers of the Moscow Kremlin
There are 20 of them in total, three have a round shape and stand on the corners, the Kutafya tower has an indeterminate shape due to the complexities of its design, and the rest are rectangular. Almost all look consistent in style. Only Nikolskaya, rebuilt in the 19th century, stands out from the composition. Chimes were installed on the Spasskaya Tower in the 15th century. They are one of the oldest in the world. The ringing of this clock accompanies the onset of the New Year in the country.
Armouries
The treasury of the Russian tsars, which later became a museum. The collection began to take shape in the 14th century. The museum opened at the beginning of the 19th century. At first, only noble people had access to it. The current exhibition consists of gold and silver items, armor, weapons, carriages, icons, religious and royal attributes; works by both domestic and foreign masters are presented.
Diamond fund
The exhibition, which began its work in 1967 on the basis of the Armory Chamber. The collection had been collected since the reign of Peter I, but after the revolution it lost part of its treasures. The exhibition includes outstanding examples of jewelry art dating back to the 18th century and unique precious stones. Among them are the Orlov diamond, 189 carats, and the Shah diamond, almost 89 carats. A collection of orders and regalia for coronations also stands out.
Assumption Cathedral
Consecrated in 1479 and is the oldest surviving Moscow building. It was the site of the coronations of Russian tsars, and religious ceremonies that were especially important for the country were held here. The iconostasis of the 17th century and interior paintings from the same period have been preserved. The main relics of the cathedral are the relics of the saints and the staff of Metropolitan Peter. It is included in the museum exhibition; services are held with the blessing of the patriarch.
Blagoveshchensky cathedral
The nine-domed temple was erected in 1489 on the site of a wooden predecessor. Many icons are valuable, for example those painted by Rublev. The interior paintings also belong to the brushes of famous artists of the 16th century, including Fyodor Edikeev. In the basement there is an exhibition - “Treasures of the Moscow Kremlin”, containing jewelry, weapons, and other rarities found during excavations.
Ivan the Great belltower
Built in the first years of the 16th century. In the past, royal decrees and especially important orders were read out near her. For the 500th anniversary, restoration was carried out. During the tour you can climb 137 steps to a height of 25 meters. Total There are 34 bells. Each one has a name: Uspensky, Revun, Swan, Deaf, etc. All of them were cast in different periods, from the time the bell tower was founded to the 19th century.
Faceted Chamber
It is one of the oldest civil buildings in the city. Erected by order of Ivan III. The interior decoration was changed several times. So the original frescoes under Peter I were replaced with velvet with embroidered double-headed eagles. In 1684, the chamber was rebuilt, and another 150 years later it was connected to the Vladimir Hall. Since 2012 it has been partially open for excursions. Before this, restoration, combined with excavations, took place.
Patriarchal Chambers and Church of the Twelve Apostles
The composition appears before visitors as a complex of buildings of two and three floors, combined with a five-domed cathedral. In modern times, the premises are given over to the museum of everyday life and applied art of the 17th century. The interior decoration has been partially preserved. Exhibits: Cross Chamber - dishes, utensils, watches, etc.; Refectory - sewing; Order chambers – interiors, furniture, personal belongings, etc.; church - icons.
Cathedral of the Archangel
After the founding of the first wooden temple on this site in the middle of the 13th century, it was rebuilt and modified several times. The current appearance was formed two centuries later. The iconostasis is 13 m high and has carved decor. The tsars of the Romanov dynasty and appanage princes are buried in the necropolis of the cathedral. The wall paintings contain not only religious symbols, but also portraits of princes, including Ivan Kalita and Dmitry Donskoy.
Church of the Deposition of the Robe
Construction took place in the 80s of the 15th century. During its history, it has experienced looting, fire, and re-consecration. Now services are held only on patronal holidays. The rest of the time the church is a museum. Among the exhibits: wooden carved sculptures, icons, faces of saints, crosses, etc. The main relic is the iconostasis, made by Nazariy Istomin in the first half of the 17th century.
The Tsar Bell
A work of art from the 18th century, if we talk about foundry skills. Cast in a specially prepared pit, not far from the place where it is located now. It was never installed on a church or rang. While working on the bell, various misfortunes occurred, including a fire and the death of the main foundry. The famous crack appeared due to water getting into hot metal.
Tsar Cannon
Her consciousness occurred at the end of the 16th century. It weighs just under 40 tons, and the length is almost 5.5 m. It was cast in the Kremlin weapons workshops. It was never used for its intended purpose, only once the cannon was put on alert when the Crimean Khan’s troops approached the city, but it was never fired. The kernels next to it are fake, hollow inside and are needed to complement the exposition.
"Archaeological Windows" on Ivanovskaya Square
Tourist and, in a sense, museum objects at the site of archaeological excavations. Small rarities found, such as beads or dishes, will be exhibited in an underground museum, which is still in the process of creation. In the “windows”, made of durable glass, you can see a cross-section of the era, for example, fragments of the Small Nicholas Palace, or what remains of the Chudov Monastery.
Grand Kremlin Palace
The construction, which began in 1838, was headed by the famous Russian architect Konstantin Ton. It was built as a residence for the royal family. Now it is the ceremonial residence of the president of the country. It has five separate halls, the original appearance of which was restored in the 90s of the last century. Inspection is possible by appointment and as part of a tour group.
Kremlin Palace of Congresses
Built under Khrushchev and used to host Communist Party congresses. The style is Soviet modernism, but gradually adjustments were made to it. The façade is finished in white marble and golden aluminum. Currently, significant events and concerts take place here. In 2013, a major renovation was carried out, accompanied by technical modernization of the site. The Kremlin Ballet is also based here.
Arsenal of the Moscow Kremlin
It was founded by Peter I and is an architectural monument. It was originally conceived as a warehouse for weapons and war trophies. During Napoleon's retreat it was blown up and restored to its original form in subsequent years. Before that, it was repaired after a fire, and then after the revolution. Now the premises of the Arsenal are reserved for the barracks of the Kremlin regiment and for the commandant’s office.
Artillery guns
By order of Peter I, captured guns were brought to the Arsenal building. The tradition became stronger and in 1819 hundreds of cannons captured from Napoleonic troops were lined up at the façade. In 1960, those ancient cannons that stood at the Armory were added to them. To the right of the Tsar Cannon on Ivanovskaya Square, in 2012, an exhibition of Russian artillery guns of the 17th-18th centuries from the collection of the Moscow Kremlin Museums was opened.
Senate Palace
Construction was carried out during the reign of Catherine the Great. As the name implies, it was supposed to become the seat of the Senate. The building is crowned with a dome, and architectural style classicism traces the features of antiquity. After Lenin's death, his office became an important object. In the 90s of the last century it was moved to Gorki. Currently, the palace is the working residence of the country's president.
Tainitsky Garden
It got its name from the tower located nearby. Broken near the southern wall, included in the list world heritage UNESCO. The exact date of the appearance of the park area on the territory of the Kremlin is unknown, presumably – the 14th century. Large excavations were carried out here. Built in 2013 Helipad, due to which the historical appearance was damaged. There are poultry houses with birds of prey to protect the local flora from pests.
Amusing Palace
It was erected in 1651 for the father-in-law of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. The only surviving boyar mansions on the territory of the Kremlin. At one time it was one of the first residential buildings made of stone. After the death of the first owner, it became state property. Its appearance changed; the Police Order was based here during the time of Peter I. After restoration work, the palace became in many ways similar to the original. Now he has been placed under the commandant's office.
Terem Palace
Built by order of Tsar Mikhail Fedorovich as ceremonial quarters. One of the first residential buildings made of stone in Moscow. During the restoration, the wall paintings and decoration of the palace were restored using later samples. In modern times it is the residence of the president. A visit is only available in conjunction with the Grand Kremlin Palace as part of an excursion and after receiving special permission from the local commandant’s office.
Verkhospassky Cathedral
It belongs to the house churches at the Terem Palace and appeared in the first half of the 17th century. Together with other temples it forms a series of 11 chapters, which are clearly visible from Palace Square. The cathedral was visited by members of the royal family, including Queen Evdokia. The wooden iconostasis is decorated with carvings and made in Baroque style. Closed for inspection, services have not been held since 1918.
Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary on Senya
One of the oldest architectural monuments of the capital, dating back to 1393. The architecture of the church displays features of several schools of Russian architecture. The exterior appearance has been partially preserved, since during reconstruction and renovation the original features were lost and replaced with more modern ones. It is not an active temple, and also does not have museum exhibitions.
Monument to Grand Duke Sergei Alexandrovich
It was installed and consecrated in 1908 at the site of the murder of one of the sons of Alexander II. A small area was fenced off and a bronze cross with the crucified Christ was placed in the center, and a lamp was burning in front of it. Ten years later, the monument was demolished. In 2017, by order of President Putin, it was restored based on available images and returned to its original place. Patriarch Kirill consecrated the new cross.
Red Square
Main square capitals and countries. Although historically it belongs to Kitay-Gorod, it is associated primarily with the ensemble of the Moscow Kremlin. Changed several names. It was first mentioned in chronicles as Torg. Conventionally, it divided two zones, very different in terms of the social profile of the population: on the Kremlin side - the boyars and the royal family, on the Kitay-Gorod side - merchants and ordinary people. Played a role in the revolution. The first military parade took place here in 1941. In modern times, significant events, large concerts are held, the largest skating rink in Russia is being filled. Sights: Mausoleum, necropolis, Lobnoye Mesto, monument to Minin and Pozharsky.
A walk around the Kremlin and its surroundings: what to see and where to walk if this is your first time in the capital.
Start your walk from the Okhotny Ryad metro station. Come out to Manezhnaya Square.
Note the Four Seasons Hotel, former hotel "Moscow". Below it is Moscow Archeology Museum.
On the other side of the square is the Manege, the building of which was built in 1817, on the fifth anniversary of the victory over Napoleon, on the orders of Emperor Alexander I. During the Soviet years, it was used as a government garage.
The main dominant feature of the place is the red brick building Historical Museum And Iveron (Resurrection) Gate that connect Red Square from Manezhnaya. Here is the bronze zero kilometer sign. It was installed in 1995. Since then, this has been one of the most popular places among tourists: people throw coins here to return to Moscow again. Don't forget to make a wish: if you fall exactly into the circle, it will definitely come true. However, this sign is nothing more than a tourist attraction: in fact, the zero kilometer is not here, but at Central Telegraph- in accordance with historical tradition.
U Historical Museum installed majestic monument to Marshal Georgy Zhukov. It was installed in 1995, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War.
Until the second half of the 19th century century, on the site of the Historical Museum was the Zemsky Prikaz, built at the end of the 16th century. The Moscow city government bodies were located inside it. At the beginning of the 18th century, part of the premises was given to the main pharmacy of Moscow, at which there was a “storehouse of medicinal herbs, a laboratory, a library, premises for a doctor and a pharmacist.” And in 1755, Moscow University opened in the town hall building. It occupied several floors of the Zemsky Prikaz until the construction of a separate complex of university buildings on Mokhovaya Street in 1793.
Another historical fact connected with the Zemsky Prikaz: during the time of Peter I, an austeria was attached to its wall - one of the first in Moscow. In these drinking establishments (in fact, clubs for foreigners and the Russian nobility), everyone who read Moskovskie Vedomosti, the first Russian newspaper, was given free drinks. This is how Peter I instilled the habit of reading newspapers.
The Resurrection Gate was erected in 1535 as the main gate of the Kitai-Gorod wall, the second Moscow fortress after the Kremlin, and took its name from the nearby Resurrection Monastery. In the 1930s, the gates were demolished because they interfered with military parades, and in the 1990s they were restored according to old drawings. Next to them is Chapel of the Iveron Icon of the Mother of God, which gave the gate its second name.
On the left hand of the gate is located branch of the Historical Museum. This building housed the City Duma - from 1892 to 1917, and in the Soviet years - the Vladimir Ilyich Lenin Museum.
Next, take a stroll through the Alexander Garden. It was laid out in the first quarter of the 19th century according to the design of the architect Osip Bove. Previously, in its place there was the Neglinnaya River, now hidden in a pipe. It was here that Bulgakov's Margarita first met Azazello.
The garden divides Trinity Bridge, which leads to the Kremlin tower of the same name. It is considered the oldest in Moscow: the bridge was built in 1516 - and since then it has been rebuilt more than once.
While walking, pay attention to grotto "Ruins". This is a reminder of the War of 1812: it is lined with the rubble of Moscow buildings destroyed by Napoleon's army. Next to the grotto is located memorial Complex with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame. Once an hour for Post No. 1 Hundreds of tourists gather to watch the ceremonial changing of the guard. The guards change every hour, regardless of the time of year or weather conditions.
The Moscow Kremlin is an unsurpassed historical and architectural monument, which long ago became not only the calling card of the Russian capital, but also a symbol of our entire mighty country. Every building and every landmark of the Kremlin is a fascinating page from the history of the city.
On the territory enclosed by powerful Kremlin walls, there are golden-domed temples, elegant palaces, royal chambers, cozy public gardens and spacious squares. Everything here is literally imbued with centuries-old history - ancient bells and cannons, buildings unsurpassed in their beauty and world-famous museums, within the walls of which the memory of so many events and so many names is carefully preserved... In a word, you can talk about the Kremlin for hours. Today we will talk about several of the most interesting sights of the Moscow Kremlin. Believe me, they really deserve your attention!
Grand Kremlin Palace
The Grand Kremlin Palace, the construction of which began in 1938 year XIX century - this is probably one of the best monuments not only of military glory, but of all Russian history!
The total area of the palace complex, which, in addition to the Grand Palace itself, included a number of buildings from the XV-XVII centuries. (palace temples, Terem Palace, Tsaritsyn, Golden and Faceted Chambers), is about 25 thousand square meters. There are no less than seven hundred beautiful rooms, each of which is beautiful in its own way. The unique interior decoration and decoration of the halls is designed in several different styles, ranging from the Russian-Byzantine style to the Renaissance.
Cathedrals of the Moscow Kremlin
The Moscow Kremlin with its stunning architectural monuments has become famous throughout the world. Some of its brightest attractions are the golden-domed cathedrals and temples, which simply need to be discussed in more detail.
Assumption Cathedral
The construction of the main Kremlin cathedral, which was destined to become the real pride of Russia, dates back to the second half of the 15th century. Currently, the Assumption Church has been given the status of the oldest example of temple architecture.
You can get to the church from the Cathedral Square. A wide staircase ending in three beautiful semicircular arches leads to the main entrance, which is supposedly guarded by an angel along with the Archangel Michael. A little above the picturesque portal you can see high-quality multi-colored frescoes with figures of saints, right above which the Mother of God is depicted holding the baby Jesus in her arms.
The inside of the Assumption Cathedral is as beautiful as the outside. The central part of the temple is separated from the altar by an ancient multi-tiered iconostasis, which is covered with gilded chased silver. In front of the iconostasis is the face of St. George - the oldest icon in the temple.
St. Basil's Cathedral
Today, the Intercession Cathedral (St. Basil's Cathedral), without undue modesty, can be called one of the most recognizable buildings on our planet. This is not only an Orthodox shrine, but also an unusually beautiful architectural monument. The church, erected in the 60s of the 16th century, is a truly magnificent sculptural structure, crowned with unusually beautiful figured domes, each of which is distinguished by its stunning pattern.
For Muscovites and guests of the city, there is a museum at St. Basil's Cathedral. All visitors have the opportunity, climbing the spiral staircase, to admire the beautiful ancient frescoes and oil paintings decorating the walls, the intricate patterns of the internal gallery, the iconostasis with ancient icons, as well as church utensils used in the 16th-19th centuries.
Blagoveshchensky cathedral
In the southwest of Cathedral Square, the Annunciation Church stands out as a bright spot, where since the beginning of 1993, solemn services have been held on the Feast of the Annunciation.
The construction of the nine-domed cathedral with gilded domes was carried out in the spirit of early Moscow architecture using elements of Pskov architecture. Thanks to this, today we can admire the cross-domed, three-apse, four-pillar church, the drums of the domes of which are decorated with a runner and a brick curb.
The Annunciation Church is well known far beyond Moscow. An important role in this was played by the unique cathedral painting, the grandiose church iconostasis - a real masterpiece Russian art and the main relics kept in the cathedral - the cross of Tsar Constantine and the ancient miraculous face of the Pimenovskaya Mother of God.
Cathedral of the Archangel
One of the most unique cultural and historical monuments surrounding Cathedral Square in the Kremlin is the five-domed, eight-altar Archangel Cathedral. The construction of the temple was led by A. Novy, a famous Venetian architect specially invited to Russia. The Italian master made every effort to ensure that his temple stood out against the background of neighboring cathedrals. This was achieved through the abundant use of white stone Renaissance decor, which, in combination with red brick walls, gave the building a colorful and truly festive look.
It is quite interesting to note the fact that this cathedral has always been characterized by a special ritual purpose. After all, the temple served as a tomb in which almost all Russian rulers who died before the founding of St. Petersburg were buried.
Nowadays, solemn services are held in the Archangel Cathedral on patronal holidays. On any other days there is a museum here, which will be really interesting to visit. The inside of the temple is decorated with an ancient chandelier and a high wooden iconostasis with gilding. By the way, most of icons in this temple date back to the 15th-17th centuries. In addition, the three main shrines of the cathedral deserve attention - the relics of Demetrius Donskoy, Tsarevich Demetrius and Mikhail of Chernigov.
Moscow Kremlin Museums
Armouries
Without a doubt, a tour of the Kremlin's sights will be incomplete without a trip to the Armory Chamber - a stunning treasury museum, the richest collections of which will not leave anyone indifferent. The main part of the museum collection is represented by unique precious objects, most of which were kept for centuries in the sacristy of the patriarch or in the royal treasury.
In the Armory you can see with your own eyes items of ceremonial horse harness, state regalia with a long history, outfits for coronations, royal ceremonial dresses, a collection of various carriages, all kinds of weapons, vestments of servants of the Orthodox Church, exquisite items made of precious metals and much more.
Diamond fund
Today, the doors of the Diamond Fund, one of the best attractions on the territory of the Kremlin, are open for free visits. It is in this stunning museum that there is an exhibition, by visiting which everyone can see a collection of unprecedented treasures, the fame of which has already spread throughout the world!
The current exhibition, which was started by Peter the Great himself, is located in two separate halls. Not just beautiful and unusual precious stones are exhibited here, but real works of art that have their own history and legend.
State Historical Museum
On the main square of the country, right in the very heart of Moscow, one of the best and largest museum centers in the city opens its doors - the State Historical Museum, whose holdings number millions of unique exhibits. The unique exhibitions of this museum perfectly reflect absolutely all periods in the history of the country, from ancient times to the last century.
The permanent exhibition, arranged in strict chronological order, occupies two whole floors! Moreover, each hall is assigned to a specific era (the times of the primitive communal system, the Bronze Age, the early Middle Ages, the Old Russian state, Russian culture of the 16th-17th centuries, etc.).
Tsar Cannon
The most interesting landmark of the magnificent Moscow Kremlin is the Tsar Cannon - one of the best examples of artillery pieces. This large-caliber firearm, listed in the Guinness Book of Records, is guaranteed to be worth seeing for all tourists who set out to see all the outstanding monuments of the capital.
Today, an amazing cannon flaunts on the picturesque square, just between the Church of the 12 Apostles and the bell tower. A true masterpiece of weapons craftsmanship was made closer to the last decade of the 16th century in accordance with the decree of the sovereign father Fyodor Ivanovich. The largest cannon in the world was created by the famous master of his craft, the court foundry maker A. Chokhov. The weight of the gun is almost 40 tons, and its caliber is 890 mm. The bronze barrel of the Tsar Cannon is decorated with memorable texts, ornamental patterns, cast figured friezes and, of course, the equestrian figure of the Sovereign Autocrat.
Many historians often call the cannon that adorns the Kremlin “the first capital miracle.” And there really is something in this. After all, the weapon is notable not only for its antiquity, craftsmanship, formidable beauty and colossal size. The Tsar Cannon never had the chance to take part in a single combat battle!
The Tsar Bell
On the territory of the Moscow Kremlin, at the foot of a three-tiered bell tower, the largest bell on the planet is on display for public viewing - an excellent museum example of Russian foundry art.
As you know, from time immemorial the Russian people have loved everything big and majestic. Therefore, it is hardly surprising that the dimensions of the Tsar Bell were simply colossal: weight - about 205 tons with a height of more than 6 meters.
This miracle was cast during 1733-1735. masters of bell making and hereditary foundry workers - father and son of Motorina. The decree on the creation of the Tsar Bell was signed by the Russian Empress Anna Ioannovna from the Romanov dynasty, who wanted to replace with it the bell of A. Grigoriev, which broke in 1701 when it fell from the bell tower.
The new bell came out truly magnificent. Its decoration was rich ornamentation and very intricate relief. At the very top, in the stamps, images of John the Baptist (considered the patron angel of Tsar Ivan V), the Holy Prophetess Anna (the angel of the Empress), the Apostle Peter, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Son of God Jesus Christ are clearly visible. Below are portraits of Anna Ioannovna and Alexei Mikhailovich, the second Russian Tsar from the House of Romanov, separated by figured cartouches with flowers and baroque scrolls.
Red Square
Climbing from the embankment of the Moscow River up Vasilievsky Spusk you can get straight to Red Square - the most famous square in Moscow, which has become one of the unchanging symbols of Russia.
The total territory occupied by Red Square exceeds 23.1 km². Moreover, its width is 70 m and its length is about 330 m. The main square of the country is one of the best walking areas in the capital.
Unique and unrepeatable architectural ensemble The square is recognized as a world heritage site, included in the UNESCO list of protected sites. At the southern end of the square is a stunning cathedral known as St. Basil's Church. To the north rises the Kazan Cathedral and the building of the State Historical Museum. And from the west and east the area is limited by the Kremlin walls and GUM.
For decades, Russia's most beautiful square has enjoyed low popularity among Muscovites and foreign tourists. There really is something to see here! Directly on the square itself you can see the monument to Minin and Pozharsky, Lobnoye Mesto - an interesting ancient monument of Russian architecture, as well as the tomb monument of V. Lenin and I. Stalin, not far from which there are burial places of outstanding people who lived and worked in the USSR.
Execution place
The Moscow Kremlin, and especially Red Square, is incredibly rich in amazing architectural monuments. Among them, the so-called “Execution Place”, located slightly to the left of the world famous St. Basil’s Cathedral, deserves special attention.
Initially, the building, which appeared here at the beginning of the 16th century, looked like a low brick platform, the perimeter of which was fenced with a wooden fence. It was from here that reigning persons and high-ranking officials made solemn speeches to the people, read out new decrees, and also announced sentences to criminals. According to tradition, future royal heirs were carried to Lobnoye Place in the arms. This was done with one sole purpose - to prevent the possibility of any impostors seizing the throne.
Currently, Lobnoye Mesto has become an integral part of the architectural appearance of Red Square. Behind a beautiful cast-iron fence rises a round white stone platform. You can climb to the upper platform by 11 steps leading to the entrance with a wrought-iron door.
Until recently, there was one interesting belief among tourists: those who want to visit the Moscow Kremlin again must throw a coin inside the Execution Ground.
Monument to Kuzma Minin and Dmitry Pozharsky
In the very center of the Russian capital you can see an incredibly beautiful and interesting monument the great Russian prince Dmitry Pozharsky and Kuzma Minin, who was destined to become the best creation of the incredibly talented sculptor I. P. Martos.
The grand opening of the monument, which today has become one of the brightest “calling cards” of Moscow, took place at the end of the winter of 1818. The ceremony, which attracted countless crowds of people, was personally honored by the presence of the All-Russian Emperor Alexander I himself and his wife Empress Elizaveta Alekseevna.
This is truly a legendary monument, immortalizing the people's heroism and the greatest feat of two outstanding people. On a huge granite pedestal, richly decorated with beautiful convex bas-reliefs, stands a successful sculptural group that embodies the feelings and thoughts of people who survived the hardships of the Patriotic War. Despite the fact that the bronze Minin and Pozharsky are dressed in sandals and clothes characteristic of most ancient sculptures, their figures and faces, filled with determination, are fully consistent with the Russian character. Kuzma Minin, pointing with one hand towards the city, hands over an ancient heavy sword to Prince Dmitry Pozharsky, thereby inviting the latter to lead the Russian army. The governor, weakened due to his wounds, holding onto his shield, tries to rise from his bed, which is a symbol of the awakening of the people's consciousness in the most difficult time for his native Fatherland.
Ivan the Great belltower
On Cathedral Square, which has become the real center of the Moscow Kremlin, a stunningly beautiful 16th-century structure rises to the clouds, uniting all the ancient Kremlin churches into a single architectural ensemble. This is the majestic snow-white bell tower “Ivan the Great”, a real miracle of architectural mastery!
In architectural terms, the bell tower is a multi-tiered building in the shape of a pillar, consisting of elongated octahedrons stacked on top of each other, which gradually taper towards the top. Any of these octahedrons is characterized by the presence of an open gallery and a spacious terrace. The tiered galleries house ancient bells - beautiful masterpieces of foundry art, decorated with various inscriptions, beautiful relief images and intricate ornamental patterns.
More details
In November back in 1702, Peter I ordered the construction of the gates from the Trinity to the Nikolsky gates according to his personal drawings majestic building, in which it was planned to open an Armory House, which would be a kind of storage facility for military trophies and samples of Russian weapons.
The Zeichhaus was built in turn by several of the best architects of the time. The construction of the Arsenal was finally completed only in 1736. The monumental two-story brick building perfectly complemented the architectural appearance of the ancient Kremlin. According to its plan, the building is somewhat similar to an elongated trapezoid with a spacious courtyard, which can be accessed through several entrances highlighted by porticoes that combine features of two popular styles - classicism and baroque. Along the entire facade, smooth walls are cut through by two rows of paired arched windows with a semicircular top and deep hewn slopes. The lower floor of the Arsenal deserves special attention. Thanks to the amazing painting technique, it seems as if it was made of stone blocks.
After the war between Napoleonic France and Russia, a museum with a collection of exhibits from the Patriotic War was to open in Zeichhaus. For this purpose, all kinds of captured artillery pieces were brought to the Arsenal building, which were subsequently placed along its facades. A number of Russian guns were relocated here in 1960. Today, all the weapons near the walls of the Arsenal are exhibits of numerous Kremlin museums.
Towers of the Moscow Kremlin
The existing walls and 20 Kremlin towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Each tower has its own history and its own unique architectural appearance. Most of them got their names in honor of nearby buildings, churches, or by the names of boyars living nearby. Once upon a time, any of the twenty towers served a defensive function. Now, thanks to their beautiful architectural forms, their role has changed to cultural and aesthetic.
In the very center of the capital there are witnesses to significant events of the past and places where the present is taking place - the Kremlin and Red Square. Ancient and unique, beloved and mystical - these places have long become not just business cards of Moscow, but also symbols of the country. Seeing the sights of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square is task No. 1 for any tourist.
A nice bonus only for our readers - a discount coupon when paying for tours on the website until June 30:
- AF500guruturizma - promotional code for 500 rubles for tours from 40,000 rubles
- AF2000TGuruturizma - promotional code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Tunisia from 100,000 rubles.
And you will find many more profitable offers from all tour operators on the website. Compare, choose and book tours at the best prices!
One of the hallmarks of the capital, known far beyond the country’s borders, is the Grand Kremlin Palace, located along the embankment of the Moscow River. The modern palace was built under Nicholas I by a group of architects under the leadership of K. Ton on the site of once-existing structures from the times of Ivan III and Elizabeth Petrovna. The majestic structure is equal in height to a 15-story building, and the occupied area is more than 3 football fields. The complex includes the newly erected palace building, the Faceted, Tsaritsyn and Armory chambers, the Terem Palace and churches.
Behind the exquisite façade of the palace are hidden about 700 rooms, including 5 order halls, ceremonial and living quarters of the imperial family and service premises. The main attraction of the palace, which is now the residence of the president, is its luxurious interiors with unique parquet, gilding and marble.
Cathedrals
The Moscow Kremlin is a treasury of Russian art and spirituality. A separate component of it are the unique cathedrals, of which only 8 have survived.
St. Basil's Cathedral
The most striking and unique of the existing churches is St. Basil's Cathedral. The peculiarity of the temple, built in 1561, is in its unique chapters, none of which repeats the design of the other, all 10 are completely different. The temple was not always so colorful. Initially the structure was made of white stone and brick, and in the 17th century. its domes and walls were decorated with colorful patterns. What this is connected with is not known for certain, how and who exactly built the temple. There is a version that the architect was Nikolai Postnik, nicknamed Barma, or they were 2 different people.
The cathedral consists of 10 churches built on one foundation. In the center is the Intercession Church, which gave the cathedral its second name. There are 4 large churches around it, indicating the cardinal directions, and 4 more between them. The entire ensemble is surrounded by a bypass gallery.
Ticket price: 150 ₽ for children, 500 ₽ for adults, 1000 ₽ for foreigners.
Cathedral of the Archangel
The Archangel Cathedral stands apart among the Kremlin churches. Built in the 14th century. it will not stand out for its luxurious exterior or richness of colors. The ceremonial building in the Renaissance style was originally built as a tomb and dedicated to the archangel; both the architectural features and the choice of decorative elements are subordinated to this.
The five-domed cathedral, according to the tradition of temples erected in honor of archangels and saints, is crowned with silver helmet-shaped domes and only the central dome - a gilded hemisphere. The facade, originally painted red brick and later repainted white, is decorated with intact pilasters, capitals, rosettes and arches. The interior has undergone significant changes. Unique frescoes remain only at the burial place of Ivan the Terrible. The sights of the cathedral are an icon depicting the Archangel Michael, the “Blessed Sky” and 56 burials of princes and kings.
Blagoveshchensky cathedral
Among the many Kremlin churches built by Italian masters, the Annunciation Cathedral stands out for its architecture. It became a monument of Russian architecture, combining features inherent in the Moscow and Pskov schools. Built as a house church in 1489, the cathedral was added to and decorated until the 1560s, when it acquired modern look. By this time, the 3-domed cathedral, surrounded by porches, had been replenished with more churches and galleries and now it is crowned with 9 domes.
One of the most beloved cathedrals of princes and kings is distinguished by luxury from the floor made of jasper and agate and the most beautiful iconostasis to the golden cross that Napoleon never found, and the mechanical clock, the prototype of the Moscow chimes. The cathedral is full of mysteries. These are tsats - crescents under the crosses of the domes, and miraculous icons. One of the secrets is the images of Greek philosophers on the porch, among other works by the icon painter Edikeev, who was entrusted with painting the temple. Nowadays there are no services held in the temple; there is a museum here.
Assumption Cathedral
The Assumption Cathedral is one of the main Moscow churches and undoubtedly one of the most controversial. It is still unknown why the Pskov architects abandoned its construction, whose relics lie at the foundation of the cathedral, and much more. In 1479, on the orders of Ivan III, the Assumption Cathedral was erected on the site of the temple of I. Kalita, which was destined to become the most important temple in Moscow for 6 centuries. It was where people were crowned, enthroned, prayers were served, allegiance was sworn and acts of state were read out. In the Assumption Cathedral, the first of the Romanov family was crowned, and Count L. Tolstoy was excommunicated.
Construction was entrusted to the Italian Catholic Fiorovanti, who coped with the task by erecting a temple that attracts attention with its austere façade and golden helmet-shaped domes. Behind the apparent simplicity of the architecture are hidden innovative techniques that made the cathedral outstanding. Now it houses a museum, but holiday services are also held.
Ivan the Great belltower
The Bell Tower of Ivan the Great is an amazing complex that was built over about 3 centuries, from 1505 to 1815. It included the Assumption Belfry with Filaret's extension and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower itself. The first to appear was the bell tower, which served for 3 cathedrals located nearby. Then she was a little lower than now. Almost a century later, under Boris Godunov, the last tier was built. With a height of 81 m, the bell tower became the tallest building in Moscow, which it remained until the end of the 19th century.
In 1552, the Assumption Church was erected near the bell tower, which was rebuilt into a belfry. In 1624, Filaret’s extension appeared at the belfry. The latter were destroyed during Napoleon's retreat from Moscow, and rebuilt again much later. Nowadays, the bell tower houses museums, and upon climbing up, tourists find themselves on one of the best in the city observation platforms, from where an amazing view of the Kremlin opens.
Price: 250 ₽, only from 14 years old.
Verkhospassky Cathedral
The Verkhnespassky Cathedral cannot be confused with any other - its roof is decorated with 11 drums with golden domes. The temple is a complex of house churches built right in the Terem Palace. The origins of the cathedral go back to the 17th century. to house churches, when in 1627 the Catherine Church was built on the women's half of the palace. A few years later, the Church of the Savior Not Made by Hands with the chapel of John the Baptist was erected on the men's side for the Tsar and the princes.
By the middle of the century, the Church of St. Eudokia appeared above Catherine's, which would later be reconsecrated in honor of the Resurrection of the Word. And above the chapel they erect the Church of the Exaltation of the Lord or the Church of the Crucifixion. Osip Startsev united all the churches during reconstruction. Domes were placed on the roof, mounted on drums painted with tiles by masters from the New Yersaim Monastery. The appearance of the cathedral has changed little since then, but the interior has lost a lot.
Church of the Twelve Apostles
The Church of the Twelve Apostles is the home church of the hierarchs of the Russian Orthodox Church, which is adjacent to the Patriarchal Palace. It was built under Patriarch Nikon, who invited the most famous architects and painters to decorate it. Its beauty and wealth, not inferior to the Terem Palace with its temples, became the reason for the patriarch’s disgrace. The Church of the Twelve Apostles is the last of the Kremlin’s temple buildings. Its architecture repeats the elements of the cathedrals surrounding it, uniting them into a single ensemble.
After the abolition of the patriarchate, the temple gradually deteriorated. Significant damage was caused to it in 1917. Now in the only church in Moscow dedicated to this holiday, there is a museum, as well as in the palace itself. The unique paintings that decorated the walls of the temple have hardly survived, but visitors are offered a rich exhibition of icons.
Temple of the Placing of the Robe of the Mother of God in Blachernae
The modest one-domed Church of the Deposition of the Robe of the Mother of God in Vakhern is a memory of the miracle that became possible thanks to the Robe of the Mother of God. The Tatars who attacked the Kremlin, whose first attack was repelled by those besieged in the Kremlin, for some reason left, leaving behind the loot. In memory of this, a wooden temple was erected, which burned down in a fire. In 1486, Pskov craftsmen built a stone church, which became a home for Russian patriarchs and metropolitans. But with the advent of the Temple of the Twelve Apostles, its role changes, it becomes another palace church. It is being rebuilt, the open porches are being turned into covered galleries, along which the queen follows to the Assumption Cathedral.
The church was severely damaged twice: by a fire in 1737 and by artillery shelling in 1918. During the restoration, the wall paintings were restored, which, together with the iconostasis, gives the temple an intimate feel. The gallery of the restored church houses a museum of Russian sculpture.
Important: a ticket to visit the Cathedral Square ensemble, which includes 3 cathedrals, churches and chambers with museums located in them - 500 ₽. Tickets to the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Armory Chamber are paid separately.
Museums
In 1991, out of several state museums A museum-reserve of the same name was founded in the Kremlin. It included:
- museum-cathedrals where exhibitions are located: Arkhangelsk, Annunciation and Assumption
- Church of the Deposition of the Robe, 12 Apostles
- Bell tower "Ivan the Great"
- Patriarchal and Armory Chambers
Armouries
The Armory Chamber is a centuries-old legacy of Russian tsars and patriarchs. The first mention of it dates back to 1547, only then it was called the Armory Order, which included the Great Treasury, where all the jewelry was kept, the Armory Chamber with weapons, uniforms and banners, the Stable Order with crews and the Workshop Chambers. The modern Armory Chamber occupies 2 floors in the Grand Kremlin Palace. Its exhibition is located in 9 halls and presents more than 4 thousand exhibits of decorative and applied art.
Works by masters not only from Russia and Europe, but also from the East are exhibited here. Among them are a unique collection of thrones, the largest collection of state regalia, rare weapons, art objects of “pre-Mongol” Rus', etc. The most famous exhibits of the exhibition are the Monomakh cap, Faberge eggs, the throne of Ivan the Terrible, the ceremonial outfit of Peter I, etc.
Ticket price is 700 ₽, children under 16 years old are free.
Diamond fund
The Diamond Fund is a separate exhibition exhibited at the Armory Chamber, which is part of the Gokhran of the Russian Federation. The collection collected in the fund was started by Peter I, who by his decree recognized the treasures located in the royal chambers as state treasures. Coronation regalia and jewelry, if necessary, were issued and then returned to the Diamond Cabinet, and then the Armory.
After the revolution, many precious exhibits of the fund were sold. Today, the Diamond Fund's collection consists of about 70 exhibits, including historical stones, gems, diamonds, nuggets, orders and a unique collection of crowns. Visitors will be able to see the famous Orlov diamond, Colombian emerald, 9-kilogram Camel nugget, large and small imperial crowns, etc.
Ticket price: 500 ₽.
State Historical Museum
The red brick building located in the northwestern part of Red Square attracts attention due to its homogeneity with the ensemble of the Moscow Kremlin. Here, since 1883, there is a Historical Museum, the exhibitions of which tell about the history of Rus' from ancient times to the present.
On 2 floors of the museum in 39 halls, 22 thousand exhibits are placed in chronological order, which is less than 1% of the entire museum fund. Moving from hall to hall, visitors from primitive society find themselves in the present day. Among the exhibits are a boat hollowed out of wood, mammoth tusks, a religious building made of slabs, medieval armor, orders, etc. The interiors of the museum, on which Aivazovsky, Repin, Korovin and others worked, are also valuable.
Cost: 400 ₽ for Russians, 700 ₽ for residents of other countries.
Towers
The Moscow Kremlin has the shape of a triangle, at the vertices of which there are round towers (Beklemishevskaya, Vodovzvodnaya and Corner Arsenalnaya), the remaining 17 are rectangular in shape. Despite some similarities, all towers are unique. The Trinity Tower is recognized as the highest, the size of which, together with the star, is about 80 m, which is slightly lower than the Ivan the Great bell tower. Somewhat inferior to it is the Spasskaya Tower, famous for its chimes, when passing through it you had to dismount and take off your hats.
The smallest and most unlike the others is the Tsar's Tower, the height of which does not exceed 17 m. It owes its name to Ivan the Terrible, who loved to watch what was happening on Red Square from here. Another unique structure is the Kutafya Tower - the only one of the bridgeheads, i.e. not built into the wall. Each tower is interesting in its own way: Tainitskaya was the first to appear, Corner Arsenalnaya contains a spring and a dungeon, government motorcades enter the Kremlin through Borovitskaya.
Attractions
Red Square is the symbol, heart and historical center of Moscow. This is popular tourist place, where many attractions are located, is included in the program for mandatory viewing.
Zero kilometer
Zero Kilometer is a new landmark of Moscow, which appeared only in 1996. The sign was supposed to appear in the capital back in 1985, but they could not decide on the installation location. This bronze sign shows the starting point for distances. Usually it is located near the main post office, but in Moscow it was decided to place it in the center tourist routes at the Iverskaya Chapel, explaining this by saying that before the road, every Muscovite went to bow to her, asking for intercession.
The sign is a square divided into 4 parts, symbolizing parts of the world, inscribed in a circle. The bas-relief of the square depicts animals. In its center is an eight-pointed icon with an inscription. Despite its youth, the attraction is very popular. There is a sign: if you stand in the center of the sign facing the chapel on one leg and throw a coin over your left shoulder with your left hand so that it remains within the circle, then your wish will definitely come true.
Resurrection Gate
Between the building of the Historical Museum and the City Duma there are Resurrection Gates with a double passage, through which tourists enter Red Square. The gate was rebuilt in 1995 in the same place where it was located until 1931. The first gates were erected back in the 15th century. and were called the Lions, because a gift from the English king - a cage with lions - was placed in the ditch in front of them. Later they changed several more names: Epiphany in honor of the church, Neglimensky because of the bridge over the river, for the nearby courtyards of Trinity and Kuryatny, until they became Iveron because of the icon that was met here from Mount Athos.
After restoration, they depicted the resurrection of Christ and the gates began to be called Resurrection Gates. They were demolished as a royal monument, and they did not allow large vehicles to enter the square during the parade. A monument to the worker was erected at this site. Nowadays, this double-arched gate, built in red brick with white inserts, is one of the calling cards of the capital.
House of provincial government
Quite modest against the backdrop of the bright ensemble of Red Square, the building of the provincial government does not catch the eye. Erected in the 1730s and 40s. according to the project of P. Heyden, the building was part of the Kitaygoro Mint. Not all of its buildings have been preserved; new buildings, the City Duma, were built on the foundations of some. The House of the Provincial Government is a 2-story building in the Baroque style. Its façade is decorated with elegant pilasters, cornices, risalits and putti figures. Placed in the middle travel gates, through which you can see the building of the Old Mint.
Inside the building, ceremonial halls were equipped for ceremonial meetings of public places; later the Moscow Duma was located here. After the revolution, the building housed communal apartments for some time. Now the premises of the house are rented to non-profit organizations, part of which is rented by a jewelry store.
GUM
GUM is unique market town V historical center Moscow. The heir to the Upper Chambers of Commerce, the department store specializes in luxury goods and occupies an entire block. Trade has always flourished on the square near the Kremlin. In order to organize the shops, counters and give the trading place a civilized appearance, the Trading Rows were first built, which in 1893 were replaced by a passage - the Upper Trading Rows. They existed until 1917, when they were closed as a relic of tsarism. In 1922, they were opened, but as GUM, which became a symbol of the new policy, which was destined to work until 1930. GUM opened again only in 1953 after the death of Stalin and Beria.
Modern GUM is a shopping and entertainment center that occupies a historical building in pseudo-Russian style with a glass roof, under which there are 3 longitudinal and 3 transverse passages. Products from more than 100 world brands, a cinema hall and restaurants are presented here.
Mausoleum of V.I. Lenin
The Mausoleum of V.I. Lenin is one of the most controversial buildings in Moscow. Created as a ritual tomb, it has long become a museum. The mausoleum, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, is the third in a row. The first two were wooden. The last mausoleum was built in the shape of a pyramid from marble, granite, labradorite and quartz. It is a structure 12 m high and 24 m wide.
Inside there is a Funeral Hall with a sarcophagus in which the leader’s body is kept, and a columbarium where the ashes of other political figures were supposed to be preserved. The latter is not used and is not shown to visitors. The mausoleum fits into the architecture of Red Square, but it still raises a lot of questions: from the choice of the shape of the building itself to the need for embalming.
Execution place
One of the attractions of Red Square, Lobnoye Mesto, is not striking. A small round elevation 1 m high and 13 m in diameter is surrounded by a stone parapet. The discreet architecture does not attract attention, but the building was important - from here solemn speeches were made and decrees were read, the relics of saints were enthroned and exhibited here, strikes were held and works of art were exhibited.
Although legends connect this place with public executions. In fact, no one was executed at Lobnoye Mesto; rather, the legends arose due to a false etymology. The phrase appeared when translating from Hebrew a place in the Gospel that spoke about the execution on Golgotha. And the place is called Lobny because of the proximity of Vasilyevsky Spusk, which in the Middle Ages was called “lob”. Previously, this is where tourists threw a coin in order to return again; now this mission is carried out by the Zero Kilometer.
Tsar Cannon
The largest caliber cannon in the world, the Tsar Cannon, is installed on Ivanovo Square between the Church of the 2 Apostles and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower. An outstanding work of artillery art was made at the Cannon Yard by foundryman A. Chokhov by order of the son of Tsar Ivan the Terrible - Fyodor Ivanovich in 1586. This is a working weapon, because in the barrel there is a foundry seal, which was placed only after a test shot. The length of this giant is 5 m, and its weight is 40 tons; about 200 horses were required to move it.
On the bronze trunk, surrounded by ornaments, friezes and inscriptions, there is an equestrian image of the king, which gave it the name “Tsar Cannon”. In 1835, at the St. Petersburg factory, a carriage was cast for the cannon from cast iron, which only confirmed the name; it is decorated with the head of the king of animals - the lion. Researchers claim that the famous giant is not a cannon at all, but a battering bombard, because the carriage is not designed to fire it. Be that as it may, the Tsar Cannon is one of the achievements of the 16th century.
The Tsar Bell
Another monster of foundry craftsmanship, the Tsar Bell, is located on Ivanovskaya Square near the eastern part of the Ivan the Great bell tower. Cast by the Motorin family of foundry workers in 1730, by order of Tsarina Anna Ioannovna, the bell never rang, moreover, it was never raised to the bell tower. The queen wanted to leave behind the memory of her reign, following her predecessors. The Godunov bell, weighing 33 tons, served for less than 50 years and broke in a fire. The same fate befell the bell created under Alexei Mikhailovich Romanov, whose weight was 130 tons.
The Tsar Bell was cast in 1736, but it was pulled out of the pit only almost 100 years later due to its weight of 200 tons. Only then was a broken piece of 11 tons discovered. The bell, whose height reaches 6 m, and its diameter is about 6.6 m, was installed in the place where it stands now. Disputes about the need for restoration do not subside, but there have been no attempts to implement it.
Monument to Kuzma Minin and Dmitry Pozharsky
The monument to Minin and Pozharsky is the first large monument in Moscow, erected on Red Square in front of St. Basil's Cathedral. Before this, temples, arches, etc. were opened in honor of important events. To mark the 200th anniversary of the Second Militia and the victory of 1612 over the interventionists in 1803, it was proposed to create a sculptural composition. She was supposed to portray the leaders of the militia - Prince Dmitry Pozharsky and headman Kuzma Minin.
It was they who organized resistance to the Polish-Lithuanian and Swedish conquerors in Nizhny Novgorod, where the monument was intended. But the monument remained in the capital. Installed in 1818 in front of the Upper Trading Rows, during the reconstruction of the square it was moved to the cathedral. The monument, the creation of which took 18 tons of copper and brass and was cast in one go, became a real decoration of the square.
Arsenal
Between the Nikolskaya and Trinity towers, close to the Kremlin wall, is the Tseykhgauz or Arsenal. This building, erected by decree of Peter I in 1736, was supposed to serve not only as a weapons warehouse, but also as a museum in which captured military banners, weapons and uniforms were exhibited. The two-story trapezoid-shaped building with a large courtyard took more than 30 years to build. In 1812 it was blown up. Reconstruction work was carried out until 1828. Now its façade is decorated with deep arched windows arranged in pairs and friezes.
) - here are ancient state relics, ceremonial royal clothes and coronation dress, vestments of the hierarchs of the Russian Orthodox Church, the largest collection of gold and silver items by Russian craftsmen, Western European artistic silver, monuments of weaponry, a collection of carriages, items of ceremonial horse harness.
So, this is where the famous one is located.
Cathedral of the Archangel
Orthodox church located on the Moscow Kremlin. The existing cathedral was built in 1505-1508. under the leadership of the Italian architect Aleviz Novy. This dream was previously the site of a 14th-century cathedral.
The Archangel Cathedral was the burial place (tomb) of the great Moscow princes, Russian tsars and members of their families.
Blagoveshchensky cathedral
It was built in 1489 by Pskov craftsmen of the late XIV - early XV centuries.
The cathedral was the home church of the great Moscow princes, and then the Russian tsars (it was used for everyday grand-ducal and royal prayer). The sovereign's treasury was kept in the basement of the temple.
The Tsar Bell
This is the name of the huge bell of the Moscow Kremlin. The bell received this name because it is the largest bell in the world. It was originally made so that it would be such a “wonder of the world.”
The bell was made under Empress Anna Ioannovna (1693-1740). Portraits of the Tsar and Empress Anna Ioanovna are painted on the surface of the bell.
The height of the Tsar Bell is 6.14 meters, diameter is 6.6 meters, weight is 200 tons.
Tsar Cannon
The world's largest cannon. The Tsar Cannon was made in 1586 by Andrei Chokhov.
The Tsar Cannon weighs about 40 tons, and its length is 5.34 meters.
Gardens
On the territory of the Moscow Kremlin there are small but cozy gardens: Tainitsky Garden and the Big Kremlin Square (located near the Beklemishevskaya Tower).
