Tag Archives: Moscow

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Visit the Kremlin Armoury in Moscow

Kremlin Armoury yard in Moscow, Russia

Established in 1851, the Kremlin Armoury is one of the oldest museums in the city, and can be found within the walls of the Moscow Kremlin. With a collection that is closely linked to the history of the Kremlin itself, this is a museum that is a must-visit for those interested in learning more about Moscow’s rich heritage.

The Architecture of the Armoury Chamber
Originally built as part of the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Armoury Chamber was completed and designated as a museum in 1851. The architectural style closely resembles that of the Grand Kremlin Palace Complex, with 17th century details seen all across its facade. The building makes use of quite an unusual system of high floor vaults, which, when contrasting against the ornate columns, creates the illusion of interior amplitude and extravagance.

The Museum’s Collection
The Kremlin Armoury boasts quite a unique collection, mainly made up of decorative and applied art. Many of the most valuable items within the collection were previously preserved for centuries by the tsars, while others were created in the Kremlin workshops themselves. In addition to the 4000 pieces of art that you will find here, which comes from both Russia as well as European countries, you will also be able to see everything from ancient state regalia to ceremonial clothing to medieval Russian embroidery to weapons and arms, as well as the largest collection of gold in the world.

The Diamond Fund
A valuable collection of treasures from all over the country, the Diamond Fund is considered to be one of the most important collections in the world. Since 1967, the ground floor of the Kremlin Armoury has been dedicated to exhibiting the Diamond Fund, which tourists are free to explore. One of the highlights of the Diamond Fund is The Big Triangle, which is the heaviest gold nugget in the world, weighing in at an impressive 36 kilograms.

The Armoury Chamber Mobile App
In order to help make the most of the Kremlin experience for visitors, the museum has produced a multimedia app for smartphones and tablets, called the Moscow Kremlin Museums Armoury Chamber. In addition to displaying the latest news from the Moscow Kremlin, the section of the app that is donated to the Armoury Chamber features everything from a map of the museum to an audio guide for those who want to tour the museum on their own, and even games with museum content, and quests that you can complete while navigating your way around the museum. This is a great way to really expand your learning experience, making your museum visit so much more interactive and memorable. It is also a fantastic way to involve your children in the museum experience and will help them to understand Moscow’s history so much more.

At one point in time, the Kremlin Armoury was responsible for producing, purchasing and storing weapons, with the finest Muscovite gunsmiths working here. Today, this museum is a fantastic representation of military life in Moscow, and the varied exhibits are the perfect way to learn more about this.

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Explore 21st Century Russian Art at the Tretyakov Gallery

The Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia

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Located in Moscow, Russia, the State Tretyakov Gallery boasts the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. While the museum may be primarily dedicated to the history of Russian art, they have recently opened up a new branch that focuses on Russian modern art, with several exhibits that focus on Russian art from the 21st century.

The Tretyakov Gallery
The Tretyakov Gallery is known and loved for its incredibly rich collection that focuses on Russian art. In addition to preserving and representing Russian art, the gallery also aims to help to form a sense of Russian cultural identity, drawing attention to the importance of art in general. By providing a way in which locals, as well as tourists, can access Russian masterpieces, as well as other important pieces of world art, the museum hopes to enrich peoples’ lives and make Russia a better place.

The Modern Art: 1960-2000. Restart
The Modern Art: 1960-2000. Restart is an exhibition that began in April 2016, and will be running until December 2017, so you only have a few months left if you are hoping to catch it. This is a fascinating exhibition that addresses the mistrust that the public tends to have towards modern art. It does this by portraying the incredible diversity of some of the artistic trends that emerged after the 20th century, acquainting viewers with some of the most interesting works from this spectacular cultural period that we are now living in.

Still-Life. Metamosphoses. Dialogue Between Classic and Contemporary Art
There have always been some interesting contrasts between classic and contemporary art, and the Tretyakov Gallery is trying to explore this further. In order to ensure that as wide an audience as possible can experience this exhibit, they have made it into a virtual one, with the link available on their website. The exhibit features around 200 pieces of artwork from Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, which are either from major museum collections or donated from private collections.

A tour group admiring painting at Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia

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Tours of the Tretyakov Gallery
With so much art on display, dating back many years, a guided tour is often the best way to really explore the Tretyakov Gallery. The guided tours are carried out in English, French and German, but do not worry if you speak a different language, as group interpretors are available too. The knowledgable guides will take you through the highlights of the museum’s collection, but, if it is just modern art that you are interested in seeing, a tailored tour can also be arranged. If you do want to arrange for a special tour, make sure that you do this more than three days in advance of your visit, otherwise the price for your tour will significantly rise.

Modern Russian art is something that is being nurtured all across Russia, and the country’s art scene is now really thriving because of this. While the Tretyakov Gallery may be primarily focussed on historical art, their modern art exhibits are still definitely worth checking out, and their collections are constantly expanding, so you never know what you may end up seeing.

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New Performances at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, Russia

Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow, Russia

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A historic theatre in the heart of Moscow, the Bolshoi Theatre has earned itself a worldwide reputation for the performances that they host. For those visiting the city this summer, here are a few of the new performances that you will be able to catch at the Bolshoi Theatre.

Etudes
Etudes is a one act ballet that is dedicated to the world of dancing, following dancers from their early work in a rehearsal room to a final, most elaborate, stage performance. The ballet begins by showcasing the five basic positions in the dance, but ends with some of the most difficult of ballet moves, showing off the art’s many different sides. Originally created for the Royal Danish Ballet in 1948, Etudes is one of the most famous of Danish ballets when it comes to international ballet, with this version having been performed all over the world. This is a ballet that was so hugely loved by a worldwide audience that it has even been filmed for television on numerous occasions, but nothing quite beats catching it live at Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre.

The Cage
The Cage is another one act ballet which was originally created by Jerome Robbins. Robbins was hugely inspired by Concerto in D for String Orchestra by Stravinsky, which was the composer’s first work for string orchestra since Apollon Musagete. The piece itself is rich and haunting, which led to Robbins creating a ballet that imagined a community of female dancers. By using the ballet dance form for this idea, Robbins was able to truly portray the creatures in the way that he imagined, and did not need to confine himself to conventional human movements. This is such an ethereal ballet, and is well worth seeing, especially for Stravinsky fans, who are likely already extremely familiar with Concerto in D.

The Golden Age
While the Golden Age premiered at the Bolshoi Theatre at the end of last year, this is a ballet that only exists on the Bolshoi stage, as there is no other ballet company in the world that performs it. The ballet depicts a conflict between criminals and hard working citizens, and shows a struggle that ends up all being in the name of love. When it was first performed in the 1930’s, it did not win over many people, but, when it was very first staged by the Bolshoi, in 1982, it experienced much more success. This latest version of The Golden Age has taken on an even better air, with gripping choreography and so many different types of dance.

Tickets for each of these performances can be purchased from a number of vendors, so do take a look at the Bolshoi Theatre’s website if you would like to catch a show. In Moscow, a visit to the theatre was always considered to be quite a festive occasion, and while some people do turn up wearing everyday clothing, people tend to dress up for the theatre here, so do join in with this to really make the most of your experience.

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Excellent Weekend Destinations Near Moscow

As exciting and action-packed as Moscow may be, it is always a good idea to escape the city for a weekend to explore surrounding areas. From the quaint small town of Ruza to the history of Zvenigorod, these weekend destinations, which are all nearby to Moscow, perfectly showcase the authentic atmosphere of old Russia.

Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery in Zvenigorod

Zvenigorod
Zvenigorod is just half an hour away from Moscow, and is often referred to as Russian Switzerland, due to the fact that it is home to healing waters and holy springs. The city is visited by over half a million people each year, who seek out its natural healing qualities, as well as its diverse nature and wonderfully fresh air. Another of Zvenigorod’s highlights is the Savva-Storozhevsky Monastery, which has been exquisitely restored over the years but still retains many of its original features, some of which date back to the 1400’s and the 1600’s.

Church in Ruza

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Ruza
Ruza is a beautifully quaint small town, and many would consider it to be the most attractive town in the Moscow region. The Ruzsky District Museum of Local Lore is a must-visit for those spending the weekend in Ruza, as you will learn so much about the town’s turbulent history, as well as its rich culture.

Dmitrov

Dmitrov
Located 65 kilometres, or a one and a half hour train ride, north of Moscow, Dmitrov is the third largest district in the Moscow region and is home to a number of different historic landmarks. From Soviet Square, where you will find a monument that honors Vladimir Ulyanov, to the Orthodox Cathedral of the Assumption, which many believe to be one of the finest examples of Russian architecture, there is plenty to see here.

Kremlin in Zaraysk

Zaraysk
Located to the south-east of the capital, Zaraysk is famous for being an important Paleolithic site from the Ice Age, and many excavations have been carried out here. A number of discoveries have been made in the area, and many of these can be viewed at the Regional Museum, which is right on the town’s main square. Another of Zaraysk’s attractions is its Kremlin, which was built in 1531 and has been preserved extremely well.

Churches in Serpukhov

Serpukhov
Located at the point where the Nara River and Oka River converge, Serpukhov is home to a number of attractions to fill your weekend with. The city is home to two monasteries that date back to the late Middle Ages, as well as the Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Reserve, which is known for its population of European Bison. The bison is bred in the park itself, and visitors will be able to see these animals up close, experiencing them in a way that cannot be done anywhere else. Sobornaya Gora is also a must-visit, as this is where you will find fantastic examples of church architecture, from a variety of different periods throughout history, as well as the remains of the city’s Kremlin.

There are so many places to choose from when planning a weekend getaway from Moscow. Whether you opt for the nature and wildlife of Serpukhov, or the history of Dmitrov, these destinations are all worth considering the next time you are in Moscow.

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Russia’s Cosmopolitan Capital

The incredible city of Moscow is the cosmopolitan capital of Russia, and is well known for being wonderfully rich in history, culture and the arts. From shopping at GUM and TSUM to soaking up the history at the Kremlin, these are just a few of the highlights that you will experience during a visit to Moscow.

The Kremlin

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The Kremlin
Moscow’s Kremlin lies at the heart of the city, with its high red walls and towers surrounding an inner city that consists of cathedrals, palaces and museums, all of which sit at the top of Borovitsky Hill. An early start is essential, as there is so much to see, from the tombs of the Royal Family to 12th century works of art. The Great Bell Tower and the Armoury are also well worth exploring, especially the latter, which is absolutely packed with treasures, including an impressive collection of Faberge eggs that date back to Tsarist days.

GUM Mall

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GUM and TSUM
GUM and TSUM are two shopping malls that are wonderfully over-the-top. Right across the street from each other, the malls feature architecturally-impressive hallways and are lined with luxurious, designer stores, from Moschino to Burberry, making it well worth browsing, even if you do not intend to buy anything.

Tretyakov Gallery

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Museums
Moscow is home to a wide variety of museums, the majority of which showcase the city’s incredible history and heritage, as well as the arts. The Tretyakov Gallery is a must visit, as is the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, and the State Historic Museum. If you have some extra time to spare, do check out the Garage Center for Contemporary Culture, as well as the Shchusev State Museum of Architectural, which is the only museum in the city that is entirely dedicated to architecture.

St Basil's Cathedral

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St. Basil’s Cathedral
With its one-of-a-kind bonfire-style design, St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Russia, with its design being a prime example of Russian dome-topped spires. While the exterior of the cathedral is definitely one of the most impressive sights that you will see in Moscow, do not worry too much about touring the interior if you are short on time, as this is relatively small, dark and simple, especially when compared with the extravagant exterior.

Lenin's Mausoleum

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Lenin’s Mausoleum
Located in Red Square, Lenin’s Mausoleum is a little creepy, as it contains the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin, which has been on display almost every day since his death in 1924. This granite tomb is a must-see for visitors to Moscow, although keep in mind that the utmost respect is enforced here, meaning no cameras, no smoking and no putting your hands in your pockets. You are also not allowed to stop right in front of Lenin, and there are guards on-site to make sure that the crowds keep moving.

Moscow is a truly spectacular city, and there is so much to see and do. Whether you are into history and heritage or art and architecture, you will no doubt be impressed by all that Moscow has to offer.

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The Imperial Estate of Pavlovsk

Situated just 30 kilometers south of St. Petersburg, the Imperial Estate of Pavlovsk used to be the residence of Emperor Paul I, who was the son of Catherine the Great. At the top of a hill, which is at the heart of the estate, lies the magnificent palace, and this is surrounded by an expansive landscaped park, created so that Emperor Paul I could have an idyllic oasis of solitude.

Pavlok Palace

The Pavlovsk Palace
While the Pavlovsk Palace may not look as grand and opulent as some of its neighbors, it has a classical elegance and harmonious balance to it that makes it quite unique. Construction of the palace began in 1782, and the finishing touches were applied in 1825, although it has undergone renovations since then. The interior rooms of the palace are themed, and include the Grecian Hall, the Italian Hall, the Egyptian Vestibule and the Hall of Peace, each decorated accordingly. Pavlovsk’s Picture Gallery can be found in the palace’s southern wing, and will be of particular interest to art enthusiasts, as it contains a number of notable paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Pavlok Garden

Pavlovsk Park
One of the largest landscaped gardens in the world, Pavlovsk Park takes full advantage of the rolling curves of the river valley, creating winding streams, gentle slopes and thoughtfully placed beds of flowers. The park covers an area measuring over 600 hectares, which would take at least a day to explore, but since much of it is woodland, visitors usually head straight to the highlights of the park. These are mostly found along the banks of the Slavyanka, such as the Temple of Friendship, which is a neoclassical rotunda that features many sculptures of Catherine the Great, the Vokzhalniye Ponds, which are always popular in the summer for boating, and Pavel’s Mausoleum. At the very center of Pavlovsk Park lies the Rose Pavilion, which is an exquisite example of wooden architecture from the 19th century, and was said to be one of Empress Maria Fyodorovna’s favorite places. Since the park was one of the stops on the first railway built in Russia, it has been a popular destination for quite some time now, especially during the summer months.

Other Attractions
When visiting the Imperial Estate of Pavlovsk, there are a few other attractions that are worth making time for. The Private Garden of Empress Maria Fyodorovna is situated right beside Pavlovsk Palace, and was intended to be exclusively used by the owners of the palace, its formal structure contrasting with the lush beauty that surrounds it. The Museum of Costumes can also be found in Pavlovsk, and is home to a collection of ceremonial costumes that were worn by Imperial families throughout the generations, as well as a few historic military and civilian items.

The Imperial Estate of Pavlovsk covers around 1500 acres, making it one of the largest Imperial Estates in the country. From Moscow, Pavlovsk is extremely easy to access, and, filled with history, culture and exquisite beauty, always makes for a special day out.

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Luxury Tours in Russia

St. Basil's Cathedral, Russia

From the brooding symbolism of Moscow to St. Petersburg’s romanticism, Russia’s history, culture and beauty will captivate just about any traveler. While there are a number of ways to explore the country, a luxury tour does away with all of the hassle of planning, allowing you to soak up all that Russia has to offer in true comfort and style.

Moscow and St. Petersburg – Scott Dunn
Moscow and St. Petersburg are two Russian cities that are steeped in history and culture, but are both extremely distinct in their own way. Scott Dunn is a luxury travel company that offers a fantastic tour of both cities, enabling you to experience the contrast between each. All of the hotels chosen for this week-long itinerary are five stars and centrally located, from the Ritz Carlton in Moscow to the Belmond Grand Hotel Europe in St. Petersburg, allowing you to easily explore your surroundings during any down time. Some of the highlights of the Moscow portion of the tour include shopping on Arbat Street, taking in the art at the Tretyakov Gallery, and a visit to Lenin’s mausoleum, while in St. Petersburg you can expect to sample caviar and vodka at a famous bar, visit some 18th century palaces, and check out the Hermitage Museum.

Assumption Cathedral, Golden Ring of Russia.

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Golden Ring – Open Russia
The ancient kingdoms of the Golden Ring are located just outside of Moscow and showcase the important developments that have occurred in Russia’s history. Open Russia offers a two-day tour of the Golden Ring, taking guests to some of the historical towns around Vladimir and Suzdal, many sites of which have been granted UNESCO World Heritage status. The tour company focuses on the ultimate VIP experience, from preferential rooms at luxury boutique hotels to private museum viewings with tours conducted by museum curators to VIP restaurant reservations. In addition to this, all transport will be carried out in a luxury vehicle of your choosing, whether this may be a limousine, a luxury bus or a retro Russian vehicle.

Luxury Volga Cruise – Volga Dream
Running for over 2000 miles, the Volga is the longest and largest river in Europe, and, flowing all the way through Central Russia, is considered to be the national river of the country. The boutique Volga Dream vessel replicates the tsarist-era of luxury, making it feel as though you are aboard a private yacht. With 60 crew members to 100 passengers, the level of service is at the highest, and the rich onboard program ensures that you are always kept entertained while out on the water. There are a number of different cruise itineraries to choose from, depending on which cities you want to stop at and explore, and the crew are also able to create customized itineraries if there is somewhere in particular that you are especially eager to see.

Being the world’s largest nation, there is so much to see and do when you visit Russia, which is why a luxury tour is often preferred when it comes to taking in the sights. This way, you can be sure that you will not miss out on any highlights, and will also be able to enjoy the range of VIP extras that are added on by the tour operators.