If you are in Moscow for the first time and, above all, are interested in its history, then you are lucky: on its territory there are many sights that still preserve the appearance and atmosphere of the ancient city. Of course, it is impossible to see them all in one visit, especially if your time is limited. Therefore, first of all, you should pay attention to the center of the capital, rich in ancient architectural complexes.
Once in Moscow, do not break the established tradition and first of all go to Red Square. It is a special symbol and architectural monument of the capital, preserving traces of various eras. It is believed that Red Square emerged in 1493, when there was a need to expand the city's boundaries. Initially, the square housed trade stalls, which gave it its first name, 'Trade Square'. And because these structures often burned, the square was also called 'Fire'. The name 'Red' is first mentioned in the second half of the 17th century, and it was officially established only in the 19th century.
Under Tsar Ivan the Terrible, the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat was built on the square, better known as St. Basil's Cathedral. This architectural monument, which has become one of the main symbols not only of Moscow but of Russia as a whole, deserves special attention.
Also on Red Square is a monument of the Soviet era – the famous Mausoleum, which houses the body of the Bolshevik leader and founder of the Soviet state, Vladimir Lenin. The current building of the Mausoleum was built in 1930 according to the design of Shchusev and, despite its constructivism, fits quite well into the overall appearance of the square.
From Red Square, through the gates in one of the towers, go to the Moscow Kremlin – the historical center of the capital. The history of Moscow began with the Kremlin. Here, on Borovitsky Hill, the fortress of Moscow was built, first mentioned in 1147. It was wooden then, and the current architectural complex of the Kremlin began to take shape at the end of the 15th century, under the first Grand Prince of All Rus', Ivan III. It was then, under the guidance of the Italian architect Aristotle Fioravanti, that the red brick walls and towers were built, as well as the building of the Dormition Cathedral, which became the coronation site of Moscow sovereigns.
In addition, on the territory of the Kremlin are historical monuments such as the Faceted Chamber (the throne hall of Russian sovereigns), the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the Tsar Cannon, and the Tsar Bell.
A history lover must definitely visit the Armoury Chamber of the Moscow Kremlin – one of the main historical museums of our country. In addition to the weapons themselves, both ceremonial and combat, it houses the royal regalia, costumes of Russian emperors and empresses, vestments of the high clergy. Ceremonial carriages, horse trappings, and other delightful examples of decorative and applied art from both Russia and European countries.
Other museums in Moscow also deserve attention. These are the State Historical Museum, the museum complex on Poklonnaya Hill, and the Borodino Panorama. And, of course, the world-famous Tretyakov Gallery.
And after the Kremlin, it is worth examining the red-brick walls of Kitay-gorod – one of the oldest districts of Moscow. These places will allow you to immerse yourself in the past and feel the atmosphere of bygone centuries.
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