Day 2 in Moscow
Explore up and down the Red Square
As we are used to connect Russia with Communism, don’t think that the Red Square’s name has anything with this ideology, or with the color of the buildings found on it. The fact is that the word ‘krasnyi’ once was used for expressing beauty in Russian. In the past, the square served as the main marketplace, and it was also the site of various public ceremonies and proclamations. As well, it was occasionally hosting coronations of Russian Tsars. In the 17th century, there were taking place fierce fights during the Mongol and Tartar invasions.
A world-famous landmark is the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, also known as Saint Basil’s Cathedral, which is found on the Red Square. Nowadays, the church/cathedral has numerous names, that is why, if you have got lost in Moscow, ask the locals about the Red Square, and it will not be so difficult to observe the majestic building on the Square. It is shaped as a flame of a bonfire rising into the sky, a design that has no analogues in Russian architecture. It is a strangeness that astonishes by its unexpectedness, complexity and dazzling details of its design. Not in vain, it is UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990.
Lenin’s Mausoleum is a symbol of the Russian history, representing the resting place of Vladimir Lenin. His body is publicly displayed since the leader’s death, in 1924. Although so much time has passed since his body is in public, visitors still wait in lines to enter the mausoleum. Entrance is free of charge, and you will be searched by armed police or military guards before approaching to Lenin’s body. Russians always require to show respect for their leader, so photography and videotaping is forbidden inside, as is talking, smoking, keeping hands in pockets, or wearing hats.
In the afternoon, walk through the famous main universal store of Moscow – GUM. Probably the thing that attracts here most of the tourists is not the fact that it is a shopping mall, but that it has a glass roof, which makes the building unique. Among the numerous and colorful designer boutiques, you can find a quaint little buffet that serves all the classics of Russian cuisine – “Stolovaya 57”. If you have enough courage, you can taste the Russian meat balls, olivie and vinegret salads, as well as the combination of pickled herring and beetroot. If you would like a common dinner, you can have some good soup, or opt for some sandwiches.
