ABOUT MOSCOW

Moscow is the capital and the largest city of Russia. It is also the largest city in Europe, with the Moscow metropolitan area ranking among the largest urban areas in the world. Moscow is the political, economic, cultural, religious, financial, educational and transportation centre of Russia.

Historically, Moscow was the capital of the former Soviet Union and the Grand Principality of Moscow and Tsardom of Russia, the pre-Imperial Russian states. It is the site of the Moscow Kremlin, which serves as the ceremonial residence of the President of Russia. Russian parliament and Government of Russia are meeting also in Moscow.

It is home to many scientific and educational institutions, as well as numerous sport facilities. It possesses a complex transport system that includes 3 international airports, 9 railroad terminals and metro systems which is famous for its architecture and artwork.

The first Russian reference to Moscow dates from 1147, so Moscow is more than eight centuries old. Moscow became the capital of the independent Vladimir-Suzdal principality in 1327 and later - to the Grand Principality of Moscow. By the end of the 15th century the city became the capital of an empire that would eventually encompass all of present-day Russia and other lands.

Moscow's architecture is world-renowned combining such ancient world famous architectural and historical monuments as the Kremlin ensemble, the St. Basil Cathedral, the Novodevichy Convent with later urban architecture such as Moscow skyscrapers of Stalin period.

Moscow is a major cultural centre, the seat of over 100 museums, numerous theatres, concert halls, cinemas. A visitor will enjoy the parks and gardens of Moscow, its beautiful surroundings and take pleasure in traditional Russian hospitality.