Citytrips-Highlights.com

Archiv für Dezember 2012

St. Basil´s Cathedral is one of the most recognisable buildings in the whole Russia. It is situated in the south-east end on the Red Square. The building is a great mixture of western and eastern architecture. It is mostly known as St. Basil´s Cathedral, but the official name is “The Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat”. The popular alternative is Basil the Blessed.
The Cathedral was ordered by Ivan the Terrible, but nothing is known about the builders, Barma and Postnik, except their names and some legends. Moreover architectural specialists still are unable to agree about the governing idea which is hidden behind the structure. The creators could pay homage to the churches of Jerusalem or building eight churches around a central ninth can represent the medieval symbol of the eight-pointed star. Although the towers and domes appear chaotic, there is symmetry and symbolism in its design. In addition, originally the Cathedral was all while to match the white-stone Kremlin. The most interesting chapel is the main one, which contains a 19th century baroque iconostasis.
During the time of Soviet Union there was a talk of demolishing the cathedral because it hindered Stalin´s plans for massed parades on the Red Square. In the end it was saved thanks to the courage of the architect Pyotr Baranovsky who refused categorically to demolish it and sent the Kremlin an extremely blunt telegram, so the Cathedral remains standing. However, Baranovsky was sentenced for five years in prison.
At present the Cathedral is a museum. A spiral staircase was discovered in the 1970s within one of the walls during restoration work. So, visitors take tour into the central church, but they can also walk along the narrow, winding gallery, covered in beautiful patterned paintwork.
The opening hours are daily from 11.00 to 17.00, but it is closed on Tuesdays.

Red Square is a place which for sure should not be omitted to visit when you come to Moscow. There are a lot of things that people can do in and around this square. Most of them do not want to miss the chance to see Lenin´s Mausoleum. This place was built to revere the founder of Socialism – a system which is already dead, but for sure it will not be forgotten.
The history of Red Square dates back to 15th century and originally it was called Trinity Square after the Trinity Cathedral which used to stand in the place where we can find the St. Basil Cathedral at present. Over the years the square has become the equivalent to ancient Rome´s Forum – a meeting place for people. But not only this, it has also been a place for celebrating religious festival, for public gathering, for listening to Government announcements and even watching executions.
St. Basil´s Cathedral is another must to see as for many people it is an architectural symbol of Russia. Its domes, cupolas, arches, towers and spires inspires in real life as well as in photos.
State History Museum has a huge collection of artefacts charting Russia´s past back to the Stone Age. You can also find the famous 1 Red Square restaurant inside.
Kremlin – your visit would not be complete without visiting the seat of the Russia´s government. You can spend the whole afternoon there. Constructed from the 15th century right up to the 20th, you will find a number of bold and grandiose architectural styles in these edifices which combine to reflect the glory of Russia through ages.
If you want to escape cold, go to the GUM Department Store which is the largest in Russia and a great place for you to do luxury shopping.
It is for sure worth to let yourself be impressed by the Red Square and feel the special energy of it.