10 reasons why Moscow should be your next travel destination!

Moscow, Russia’s capital city, ranks among the world’s most historic and important cities. The city’s past can be traced all the way back to the 12th century, when it was called Moscovia and was founded by Ivan Kalita of Kievan Rus. It has changed hands numerous times through its history, but has always played an important role in Russian history and development, especially during the Soviet Union period, when it was the nation’s capital city. Here are 10 reasons why Moscow should be your next travel destination!

1) The Kremlin

The word Kremlin translates to fortress inside a city and this residence of Russia’s president, government, and the Holy Synod is one of the largest in the world. Surrounded by Stalinist towers, Napoleonic gates and layers of stout walls with arrow slits, visitors might expect to find it a fortress against modernity rather than at its heart.

2) The Red Square

The Red Square has undergone major changes in the past two centuries. Originally, this plaza was known as simply the Marketplace. It became the Red Square in 1625 and its name was derived from the traditional red tiled rooftops on buildings around it. This famous landmark is a cultural and architectural highlight of Russia with iconic landmarks like St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and GUM Department Store all built within its boundaries.

3) St. Basil's Cathedral

With its beautiful onion domes that glow amber and gold in the light of the sun, St. Basil's Cathedral is a sight to behold. Every inch of its interior and exterior has been intricately and artistically crafted by hand. The perfect photo opportunity for friends and family back home, this cathedral has also been featured in many movies over the years because it is such an iconic symbol of Russia.

4) Arbat Street

Arbat is a large avenue in the center of the city that runs from Kitay-gorod down to Chistoprudny. Arbat street is one of the oldest streets in Moscow, dating back to medieval times. It has often been called Russia's Broadway and features a high concentration of theatres, cafes and small shops.

5) Gorky Park

If you are looking for the perfect place to take a walk, lay out in the sun, or just hang out with friends, then Gorky Park is the place for you. The park provides a quiet and relaxing environment, free of charge. The artificial lake with water fountains as well as many trees make this one of my favorite places to go during summer time.

6) The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

Founded in 1937, the Pushkin Museum is the most prominent museum of Western art in Russia. Its major collections include an outstanding representation of Russian nineteenth-century art and vast holdings of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

7) The State Tretyakov Gallery

Located on Lavrushinsky Pereulok in the center of the city, the gallery is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building that was originally a church. With an expansive collection spanning 7 centuries and portraying world-famous artists like Rembrandt, Titian, and Levitan, as well as famous Russian painters like Vasnetsov, Kandinsky, and Kuzma Petrov-Vodkin.

8) Dostoyevsky Museum & House Museum

Dostoyevsky Museum and House Museum displays the private collection of Dostoevsky's personal items, including furniture from his house, clothes he wore and some original manuscripts. The museum is a fascinating place to learn about the life of one of Russia's most famous writers.

9) Bolshoi Theatre Museum

The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the world’s most prestigious theatres, with a history dating back to 1776. The museum has two levels: upstairs exhibits about the history of the theatre and downstairs for viewing items relating to all aspects of Russian culture, such as theatrical costumes and sets, marionettes, music boxes, models and paintings. You can also see an up-close look at the stage itself while you visit the theatre.

10) Lenin’s Tomb

When you visit Lenin’s tomb, you can find a large statue of the infamous Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov, or Lenin. You can also learn about the history of this monumental figure who had such a strong influence on so many aspects of Russian society and culture.