August 30, 2009 Moscow – Full Day – The heart of Moscow and the seat of power of the nation – The Kremlin and Red Square: Started the day with a gallop through Alexander Gardens – trying to beat the lines to enter the Kremlin to tour the Armory! Security check points are necessary. Many, many guards/soldiers – but surprisingly – no AK47’s.
The Kremlin – a triangle shape fortress dating back to 1100’s along the banks of the Moscova River – huge walls and towers surround the fortress. The Kermlin is the seat of the office of the President – Dimity Medvedev. Patriarch Palace is where visiting dignitaries and ambassador meetings are held.
The Armory – holds the treasures of the country – many dating to the Romonav’s. The most important treasures are the Diamond Fund with the Crown Jewels. The Orlov Diamond is the largest. Also the Fabrege’ eggs, carriages, coronation dresses, armor, many gold pieces are here.
Many churches in Cathedral Square. We toured the Cathedral of the Assumption and the Cathedral of the Archangel. Both churches had walls in front of the altar with iconostasis – individual paintings (icons) of important church and local people. These icons are incredibly beautiful – with beautiful golden frames.
Red Square – is impressive – huge! Adjacent to the Kremlin Wall with Lenin’s Tomb along side – is used for military and civic functions. Part of the square is gated in preparation for a huge celebration on September 5th.
The most recognizable building in Moscow is St. Basil’s Cathedral – with its colorful onion domes. It is spectacular!
What a coincidence – we run into Valdimir Putin, Prime Minister of Russia in Red Square. Darrell was lucky enough to shake his hand!