Red Square

Plan of Hrasne Polosje

Башни Московского кремля

Москва. Красная пл. и памятник. (цв.отк.8856 PZ). 1896 t446901

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Victory Day Parade 2008-14

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Moscow Strikes Back 11-25 cheering Red Army parade, bayonets fixed

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Military parade on Red Square 2017-05-09 001

Red Square is a city square in Moscow, the capital of Russia. It separates the Kremlin, the former royal citadel and now the official residence of the President of Russia, from a historic merchant quarter known as Kitai-gorod. As major streets of Moscow radiate from here in all directions, being divided into the Red Square by major highways, it is considered the central square of Moscow and all of Russia.

History

The name "Red Square" does not originate from the pigment of the surrounding bricks (which, in fact, are not red) nor from the link between the color red and communism. Rather, the name came from the word "красный" (krasnyi), which once meant "beautiful," and has only come to mean "red" in contemporary Russian. The square's name was meant to signify the beauty of the area.

The history of Red Square dates back to the 15th century when it was a market square adjacent to the posad of Moscow. Over the centuries, it has been the site of public ceremonies, coronations, and parades. During the Soviet era, it became famous for military parades and demonstrations held on significant national holidays.

Key Landmarks

Red Square is surrounded by several significant buildings and landmarks, which are integral to the cultural and political history of Russia.

- The Kremlin: A fortified complex at the heart of Moscow, overlooking the Moskva River to the south, Saint Basil's Cathedral and Red Square to the east, and the Alexander Garden to the west.

- Saint Basil's Cathedral: An Orthodox church in Red Square that is a symbol of the country and is known for its multi-colored domes.

- Lenin's Mausoleum: Also located in Red Square, it is the resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin.

- GUM: A large department store on the eastern side of Red Square, facing the Kremlin and Saint Basil's Cathedral. It is a prime example of pre-revolutionary Russian architecture and now serves as a shopping mall.

- Kazan Cathedral: A Russian Orthodox church located on the northeast corner of the square, which has been rebuilt several times since its original construction.

- State Historical Museum: Situated on the western side of Red Square, it holds a vast collection of Russian historical artifacts.

Cultural Significance

Red Square has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, recognized for its outstanding value to humanity. It is a symbol of Russia's complex history, from its imperial past through the Soviet era to the present day. The square is not only a testament to the architectural prowess of past generations but also a living site of national importance that hosts significant events, including military parades, concerts, and public celebrations.

In Popular Culture

Red Square has appeared in numerous films, literature, and artworks, often symbolizing the heart of Russia. It is a place of power, history, and cultural significance, representing both the glory and the tumult of the Russian state over the centuries.

See Also

- History of Moscow - Architecture of Russia - Politics of Russia