Architecture

Built in the middle of the sixteenth century, St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of Moscow’s most spectacular and recognizable sites.

Absorbing Red Square’s vast size and grandeur for the first time is a truly remarkable experience. However, by turning your gaze to the far end and witnessing the sun playing on the multi-colored onion domes of the unique and quirky St. Basil’s is truly special. Whether by day or night (preferably both), St. Basil’s is a must-see. It’s also fascinating inside: although dark and small, its allure is as undeniable as the poignancy of the story of its architect.

One of the main achievements of Moscow architecture in the twentieth century. Seven grandiose skyscrapers stand from between 136 meters to 240 meters in height, and perform a variety of functions — from the home of Moscow State University to an “ordinary” residential apartment block. The design of the Seven Sisters was inspired by monumentalism, Gothicism, Art Deco and other architectural styles. Yet the general concept is Stalinist architecture.

Walk around Moscow and admire the “Sisters” from the south-west to the north-east!

In ascending order:

• Leningradskaya Hotel, 136 metres. Address: Kalanchevskaya Street, 21/4
• Building on Krasnye Vorota, 138 metres. Address: Sadovaya-Spasskaya Street, 1
• Building on Barrikadnaya Street, 156 metres. Address: Kudrinskaya Square, 1
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 172 meters. Address: Smolenskaya-Sennaya Square, 32/34
• Building on Kotelnicheskaya Embankment, 176 metres. Address: Kotelnicheskaya Embankment, 1
• Hotel Ukraine, 206 meters. Address: Kutuzovsky Prospekt, 2/1
• Moscow State University, 240 meters. Address: Leninskie Gory, 1

Did you know that some buildings also have nicknames? For example, the structure of the Presidium of the Russian Academy of Sciences has long been known in Moscow as the "Golden Brains.” This little wordplay is particularly apt due to the metal decor on the roof that sparkles in sunny weather.

Come to Leninsky Prospekt to take a look at this unique architecture project, an example of Soviet postmodernism, which is not only remembered for its funny nickname, but also has become the city's symbol of science.

There is a winter garden, a movie theater, and concert hall tucked away inside the complex soaring upwards 22 stories. In addition to the Presidium of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the complex also houses other scholarly organizations, including the Russian Foundation for Basic Research.

A luxurious white stone palace built in the late eighteenth century. Make sure you take some time to admire this masterpiece of world classicism after visiting the Kremlin and Red Square — Pashkov House is located right opposite, at the top of Vagankovsky Hill. There are colorful flower beds in front of the main building, and long wings on its sides that come together to form a grandiose architectural and landscape ensemble.

Today, the Pashkov House houses some departments of the Russian State Library. According to one popular legend, the mythical library of Ivan the Terrible may be hidden in the depths of the hill on which it stands.

This spectacular building with a 27-meter spire is the calling card of north Moscow. Designed in the Stalinist style, it alludes to the image of a steamship: three tiers of open verandas symbolize decks, while the central tower and the spire are pipes.

Nearby is a charming park, which was reconstructed in the late 2010s. And if you walk just ten minutes further north, you will see another iconic object from Soviet times: the former Dynamo water sports complex, where, since reconstruction in the 2000s, a yacht club has been based. The modern water sports complex is located next to where its predecessor once stood, and is considered one of the best sports facilities in Moscow.

You will probably pass by this building on numerous occasions while walking around the capital, since Moscow State University’s Faculty of Journalism is located opposite the Kremlin, right between Bolshaya Nikitskaya, Mokhovaya, and Vozdvizhenka streets. Originally built in the late 18th century, the building has been repeatedly refitted, reconstructed, and polished several times since then. Today, many of its features – the pediments, columns, and window design – replicate what the university building looked like in the first half of the 19th century. Admire this beautiful example of late Empire-style architecture and take a photo in front of the monument to Mikhail Lomonosov, the founder and symbol of Moscow State University. Here’s a life hack for you – the soft cream-colored walls of the Faculty of Journalism building look simply fantastic when basking in rays of sunlight.

This five-star hotel in the very center of Moscow immediately lays out its trump cards. Even from afar, it makes a tremendous impression as such a bold combination of classicism, modernism, and eclecticism, perhaps, cannot be found anywhere else! This monumental building brilliantly fits into the architectural ensemble of Tverskaya, Moscow’s main street, and in the evening light, its façade looks even more favorable.

Guests of the Carlton will find luxurious interiors, spacious rooms and suites, cuisine from renowned chefs and, of course, magnificent postcard-worthy views. Explore the best that Moscow has to offer, since by staying here you will discover the rich historical heritage of the capital, a rich nightlife, premium shopping, and numerous premieres and cultural events of global significance.

Welcome to the legend of Moscow hospitality! This hotel is located so close to Red Square that it seems you can reach your hand out the window and touch it.

The most distinguished guests are received here and the largest events are held. A micro-city with the Moskva movie theater, one of the largest in Europe, fashionable boutiques, spacious conference halls, elite restaurants, and stylish bars is tucked away inside Four Seasons.

Mosfilm is a famous Moscow film concern that originates from the legendary Soviet film factory. The complex's towering main building was constructed in a fairly short period of time—from 1927 to 1930. Architects inspired by the constructivist art movement of the time emphasized the functionality and geometry of buildings, which, to this day, still look severe and utilitarian—just as their creators intended.

Mosfilm deserves the credit for delivering many iconic Soviet films. Every decade the studio released an array of cinematic masterpieces, from Ballad of a Soldier and The Cranes are Flying to White Sun of the Desert and Gardes-Marines, Ahead!

Welcome to Mosfilm, where a guided tour will introduce you to the fascinating cinema world of the past, present, and future! Here you will see unique exhibits, many of which are recognizable at first sight. They will walk you through full-scale film sets where among other sights you can admire the performance of make-up artists. This is the place where you will start to believe in magic—or at the very least, you will want to watch a new film!