Russia
Moscow
Welcome to Russia! Moscow is a huge, historic capital built around Red Square, a giant fortress called the Kremlin, and the swirly, candy-colored domes of Saint Basil's Cathedral.
Why is it famous?
Moscow is the capital of Russia and one of the largest cities in Europe, built around the ancient Kremlin fortress and the wide-open Red Square.
The Kremlin is a historic fortified complex beside the Moskva River, with long red-brick walls, towers, palaces, and cathedrals.
How did it grow so big?
Moscow started over 800 years ago as a small fortified settlement on a hill overlooking the Moskva River.
Over the centuries it grew from a wooden fort into the political and cultural heart of Russia, spreading out in circles around the original Kremlin walls.
Amazing facts
The Kremlin is a fortified complex with historic palaces, cathedrals, towers, and government buildings.
The Kremlin's brick walls stretch for about 2.25 kilometers (1.4 miles) and enclose palaces, cathedrals, and towers with bright red stars on top.
Quick facts
- The Kremlin walls stretch for about 2.25 kilometers (1.4 miles) around the historic center of the city.
- The Kremlin's brick walls stretch for about 2.25 kilometers (1.4 miles) and enclose palaces, cathedrals, and towers with bright red stars on top.
- Some Moscow Metro stations look like underground palaces, with sparkling chandeliers, mosaics, and marble columns instead of plain platforms.
- Moscow's metro system is one of the busiest in the world, carrying millions of passengers to their destinations every single day.