The Red Square gates and the State History museum
Red Square is a premiere Moscow destination. Located adjacent to the Kremlin with origins over eight hundred years old, Red Square can be more easily grasped by approaching it directionally. From the northern entrance, Saint Basil’s Cathedral is directly toward the south, and to the west, Vladimir Lenin’s Tomb; a black, marbled, unobtrusive tomb with his name etched in stone. To the east is GUM Department Store; a three story shopping mall-like structure pleasing with its open air feel of fountains and sky lights. Between the gates and GUM is the Kazan Cathedral, painted eye-catching red and trimmed in pink. Between GUM and Saint Basil’s is a circular area, stone walled and only a few feet high. This area is the place Ivan the Terrible used for capital punishment or the chopping of the heads.
Instructions
1. Fly into any of the Moscow International Airports. Fares won’t differ much. Hotel choice should include transport to and from the airport. Otherwise, hire taxis or take full advantage of the Moscow Metro.
2. Explore the State History Museum, which is the dominant structure of brownish red located between the main gates. With the exception of the Kremlin, this museum houses impressive artifacts from Moscow’s vibrant 800 year history and even before.
3. Visit Kazan Cathedral, painted in bright red with pink trim and located past the main gates to the left. The interior has brilliant gold flaked paintings of the saints and ornate architecture throughout.
4. Shop at GUM Department Store. The impressive pre-revolution building includes many levels of high end boutiques, jewelry stores and places offering exquisite Russian gifts.
5. Visit Ivan the Terrible’s execution block. A circular stone fence encloses raised area where it’s easy to imagine the discolored stones to be centuries old blood.
6. Take the Saint Basil’s Cathedral Tour. For a minimal admission charge, a visitor can explore the outer halls and castle-like stairwells. It is rumored that all the gold of Russia was stored here and protected.
7. Make inquiries about Lenin’s Tomb. It may be closed indefinitely, but in the past officials did open the tomb for public viewing with the lines stretching endlessly.
8. Visit on a Sunday. Sundays are usually a happening day at Red Square and the Kremlin since many brides and grooms choose that day and place to marry. It’s not uncommon to see several dozen wedding gowns dotting the square.
9. Watch the changing of the guard in front of the square. Like many world powers that honor their fallen anonymous comrades, Russia is no exception. Incorporating two glass guard shacks and an eternal flame, the tomb demands solemn respect as three soldiers march in lock step.
10. Stay at area hotels that are accessible by the Moscow Metro. Moscow has an overabundance of traffic problems. Despite the language barrier, the Metro is easy to navigate and will be less stressful, saving some money.
11. Research restaurants with popular Russian fare and allow your taste buds to adjust. Many visitors like the familiarity of American food. In the courtyard before Red Square, Manezh Mall, located underground, offers many recognizable dining options. Don’t expect all the conveniences of home though. At some restaurants (pectopah’s) ice is a commodity. Beer and soda may not be cold.
Tags: Saint Basil, Basil Cathedral, Cathedral painted, Department Store, Ivan Terrible, Kazan Cathedral