Basic information about Moscow
One of the world's great cities, Moscow (Russian Moskva) is the capital of Russia. Since it was first mentioned in chronicles of 1147, Moscow has played a vital role in Russian history; indeed the history of the city and of the Russian nation are closely interlinked.
Today Moscow is not only the political centre of Russia but also the country's leading city in population, in industrial output, and in cultural, scientific, and educational importance. For more than 600 years Moscow has been the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church.
When a person first arrives in Moscow everything appears to be rather grey and dark but as one comes to the city centre there is a dramatic change. There are so many fantastic buildings with very interesting architecture. Red Square and the Kremlin are very impressive and the number of churches and cathedrals in and around Moscow is impressive. One gets the impression that religion is still at the heart of the Russian culture. Although a large number of churches are not used for services they are beautifully kept. The frescoes and icons are brilliant.
The journey by Metro is unforgettable. Some of the stations are beautifully decorated. There are huge chandeliers and wonderful artwork all around.
Moscow is definitely a city of contrasts. So rich in many ways, yet in other ways, quite poor. There is so much history here, one can feel it everywhere. Everything tells a story: demonstrators marching through Red Square, people reading books, magazines and newspapers on the Metro, modern buildings, shops and the things they sell, street markets ... the list is endless! The dramatic changes over recent years are quite evident.
Russia has produced a great number of very creative and talented people. Theatrical performances, museums and picture galleries in fact all aspects of Russian life prove that.
Moscow is one of the cities of the world that must be seen!