Red Square in Moscow

Red Square in Moscow

Red Square is situated in the Tverskoy District of the Central Administrative Okrug in Russia’s capital, Moscow. It is the main site for Russia’s large-scale celebrations and military parades, and one of the world’s most renowned squares. The name “Red Square” does not come from the color of the bricks that surround it, nor is it derived from any link between the color red and communism. Instead, the name originates from the Russian word “Красная” (krasnaya), which means “red” or “beautiful.” The square stretches 695 meters in length and 130 meters in width, covering an area of 91,000 square meters. Its surface is paved with cobblestones that are polished to a gleaming finish, giving it an ancient and sacred aura. The square is slightly raised in the middle, with sloped edges on both sides.

Red Square is the oldest square in Moscow. Despite undergoing various renovations and reconstructions over time, it has retained its original character. The cobblestone pavement, worn smooth and uneven by countless footsteps, remains from the past. It stands as a witness to Moscow’s history and a source of pride for Muscovites. Within or around the square are several iconic structures, including Lenin’s Mausoleum, which houses the embalmed body of the Soviet Union’s founder, Vladimir Lenin. Nearby, you’ll also find the stunning St. Basil’s Cathedral with its vividly colored onion domes, as well as the palaces and cathedrals of the Kremlin.

In recent years, Red Square has been transformed into a large outdoor ice-skating rink during the winter. When illuminated at night, it becomes extraordinarily beautiful and is hailed as one of the most attractive outdoor skating rinks in the world. The rink attracts numerous local skaters daily, and even Russian Olympic figure skaters and veteran ice hockey players have performed exhibition matches here.

Red Square

Must-visit reason: Moscow’s oldest square

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Russia[Russia]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Moscow Autonomous City [Moscow]

City where the attraction is located: Moscow [Moscow]