Sightseeing in Moscow - what to see. Complete travel guide

Moscow has become a popular tourist destination long ago. The reason for this is in rich choice of attractions that have national significance. In order not to waste a single day in this city, you should plan the program of excursions clearly and beforehand.

Of course, you should start the observation of the city with the Kremlin, which has already become the main symbol of the country. First mentions of this architectural complex were discovered yet in 1156. At that time this place was called a "fortress Moscow". In front of the eastern wall of the Kremlin is located Red Square. This place has witnessed numerous important historical events in Russia. The square is surrounded by three buildings: the GUM, the History Museum and St. Basil's Cathedral. Each of them is worth discussing in details.

The Cathedral is one of the most important architectural monuments; this is a magnificent complex of several temples. The History Museum is the biggest complex of its kind that exhibits valuable collections of historical artifacts. During your visit to the museum you will learn many interesting facts about the history of the country starting from ancient times. Shopping mall GUM occupies an entire city block; this is a real paradise for shopping lovers, who can spend a whole day here, and still fail to visit all studios and boutiques located in this trading center. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Kitay Gorod is considered one of the oldest historical areas of Moscow. This region is located east to the Kremlin. Today this territory is declared a protected area, so in Kitay Gorod tourists can walk through the old streets and see a lot of buildings, each of which is unique and beautiful. Another protected area is Tsaritsyno Park, which territory is the location of the National Museum of Decorative and Applied Arts of the Peoples of the USSR. These attractions are not even the tenth part of the program which Moscow can offer to its guests.

The Moscow Kremlin and the Red Square remain the main symbols of the Russian capital. The Kremlin building was constructed in the 12th century and served as the main defensive structure. For several hundred years, it was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt, while the Red Square witnessed a number of important historical events. Since the construction of the Kremlin, important public gatherings, fairs, and celebrations have been held here. Today the capital's main square is a favorite walking place among local residents and guests of Moscow.

The capital is famous for its modern architectural monuments, including the famous "Moscow City" Business Center. It is a complex of skyscrapers featuring the original futuristic design. The height of the main building reaches 235 meters. It's nice to admire the high-rise buildings on a sunny day when their mirror facades reflect the sun's rays.

One of the capital's most recognizable religious sights is the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. It was built at the beginning of the 19th century soon after the end of the Patriotic War of 1812. The construction of the temple lasted more than forty years. In the post-revolutionary period, the cathedral was completely destroyed, and it was decided to erect the Palace of Soviets on its site. The city authorities began the reconstruction of the religious monument in 1994, and in three years the cathedral was finally open to the public.

Moscow and its environs accommodate several interesting historic monasteries, the oldest of which is Novodevichy Convent built in 1524 by order of Vasili III of Russia. Outwardly, the monastery looks like an impregnable medieval fortress. This historic convent is shrouded in many mysterious legends. Today, tourists visit it to see beautiful old frescoes as well as to hear incredible stories about members of royal families who spent the last years of their life here.

Another striking landmark of modern times is Kremlin in Izmailovo. It is an incredibly beautiful wooden building in the style of 17th-century architecture. The complex was built according to old drawings and pictures. Kremlin in Izmailovo accommodates several interesting museums, souvenir shops, a traditional food restaurant and other entertainment facilities for international tourists.