As the capital of Russia and indeed of the former Soviet Union, there is much to learn about Moscow from both a historical point of view and for those who are keen to travel here. We are all aware of Moscow but what do we really know about this fascinating city?
Some Basic Facts
Moscow is the largest city in Europe when it comes to sheer dimensions, it is around thirty kilometres in diameter and is home to approximately eleven and a half million people – a figure that is growing all the time.
The history of Moscow stretches back almost 900 years and it has been the focus of many turning points in the Russian and Soviet past.
Architecture
Moscow is famed for its stunning architecture and there is no sight more attractive than that of St Basils Cathedral and its instantly recognisable onion shaped domes. St Basils sits on the edge of Red Square which is also home to the Kremlin and Lenin’s Tomb. These are focal points of the former Soviet Union and for visitors to Moscow today, they are not to be missed.
While historical architecture is in abundance in Moscow, there is a fine, yet curious juxtaposition of new and old with some superb examples of modern buildings across the city. The Ostankino Radio Tower is the tallest building in Europe and the third tallest in the world while the business district known as Moscow City is a fascinating mix of skyscrapers and other modern buildings that highlight the city’s part in world trade.
Sport
Sport plays a major part in Russia’s culture as a whole and in Moscow, it is particularly important for its people.
Football is as popular here as it is in any part of the world and the city is host to a number of teams that compete at the highest level. Lokomotik, Spartak, CSKA and Dynamo Moscow all play in the 1st division of the Russian league and each team has made a mark on European football in its own way.
Elsewhere, traditional Russian sports such as Ice Skating mix with less well known pastimes such as rugby and overall, sport plays a huge part in Moscow life.
Getting in and Around.
If you are arriving from overseas, the likelihood is that you will arrive at any of Moscow’s four international airports. Road and rail links are better here than in any other part of Russia so that may also be an option.
English is more widely spoken here than in any other city in the country but it may be helpful to learn some basic Russian phrases before you travel – just in case.
History
Moscow has been at the centre of most of the important focal points in Russian history. Those moments are far too numerous to list in full but a visit to the museums here will help you to immerse yourself in all the major turning points in Russia as a whole.
While it’s important to learn the facts about Moscow, the best way to understand them is to pay this fascinating country a visit.
