If you’re planning a trip to Moscow, then you can be sure you’ll have plenty to do and see while you’re there. One of the world’s great cities, it truly is worth a visit. One fantastic site that’s an absolute must is the famous Kremlin. This is the center of Russian government and the word ‘Kremlin’ roughly translates as ‘fortress’ in English. It contains government buildings, cathedrals, an armory, museums and a palace. Get yourself on a guided tour to make sure you see all the hotspots.
Another absolute must-see is the famous Red Square, named in the seventeenth century after an old Russian word for ‘beautiful’. To see a little piece of history, check out the rebuilt Resurrection Gate, which had stood at the entrance to the square for hundreds of years before Stalin ordered it demolished in the Cold War. Also make time to visit the colorful St Basil’s Cathedral. A Russian masterpiece, it was built in the sixteenth century on the decree of Ivan the Terrible.
Home to the Bolshoi Ballet, a brilliant location for all the culture lovers among you is the well-known Bolshoi Theater. It’s Russia’s most famous and largest theater and has recently been renovated, so it’s well worth a visit to see the five-tiered auditorium decorated in a gorgeous nineteenth century Russian neoclassical style. Take in a performance if the theater’s your thing, but try to book before you go if you can as foreigners are often charged more than locals at ticket kiosks.
For those of you that love to visit tourist attractions while still getting a feel for the local charm, look no further than the Old Arbat. This street has become more touristy over the years but is still a great cultural center of Russia, maintaining its rustic charm. It’s a great place to go souvenir shopping, buy art or visit a café. It was once home to many writers, painters, composers and artists, and the celebrated writer Pushkin’s old house is now a museum that’s worth a visit.
Another top cultural location is the Novodevichy Convent, which translates as ‘New Maidens Convent’. It was established in 1524 and now stands as a who’s who in Russian history – the sister of Peter the Great, the composer Shostakovich and the writer Chekhov are all buried there, among others. The cathedral, convent and cemetery are all open to visitors and it’s located in a beautiful park setting, meaning that there’s something for everyone at this absolutely fantastic Moscow attraction. It’s definitely worth a visit.
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