History and Secrets of the Moscow Kremlin

Nestled at the heart of Moscow, le Kremlin stands as a monumental fortress that has witnessed the unfolding of Russian history from the era of Ivan le Terrible through the Romanov dynasty. This historic citadel, embodying the confluence of military power, religious significance, and political prowess, has dominated the landscape of Russian history, culture, and politics for centuries. As the seat of power for the Russian government, its walls have harbored the secrets and stories of the nation’s past, making it a symbol of Russian resilience and authority throughout the ages.

The following article delves into le Kremlin’s architectural journey, exploring its evolution from a wooden fortress to the imposing structure we see today. It highlights key landmarks within the Kremlin’s confines, such as its majestic cathedrals and grandiose palaces, which have played pivotal roles in Russian ceremonial rites and governance. Moreover, this piece seeks to unveil the less known secrets of le Kremlin, offering readers a glimpse into the lesser-known facets of its history and legacy. Practical information for potential visitors is also provided, ensuring that those wishing to explore this iconic symbol of Russian heritage can do so with ease. Through a comprehensive overview, this article aims to unravel the complex tapeography of power, faith, and art that le Kremlin represents.

The Kremlin’s Architectural Journey

The architectural evolution of the Moscow Kremlin reflects the complex tapestry of Russian history, embodying transformations that span centuries. From its origins as a wooden fort to its current grandeur, the Kremlin has undergone significant changes, influenced by both domestic needs and foreign expertise.

From Wooden Fort to Stone Fortress

Initially mentioned in the Hypatian Chronicle in 1147, the Moscow Kremlin was first constructed by Yuri Dolgoruki as a simple fortification on the Moskva River’s left bank. This wooden structure was pivotal in the early development of Moscow, serving as both a military stronghold and a center for trade. By the 14th century, the fort had been rebuilt in white stone, marking a significant shift in its architectural significance and durability. The transition to red brick construction in the late 15th century under Italian architects further emphasized its status as a formidable fortress and a symbol of burgeoning Russian power.

Italian Influence

The late 15th and early 16th centuries marked a profound transformation in the Kremlin’s architecture, heavily influenced by the Italian Renaissance. Italian architects, invited by Ivan III, brought with them new techniques and styles that were previously unseen in Russian construction. The Cathedral of the Dormition, built between 1475 and 1479 by Aristotele Fioravanti, stands as a testament to this influence, combining elements of Byzantine and Italian architectural styles. The period also saw the erection of the Granovitaya Palace and the fortification towers by architects like Marco Fryazin and Pietro Antonio Solario, further embedding Italian architectural aesthetics into the heart of Moscow.

Rebuilds and Restorations

Over the centuries, the Kremlin has not only been a witness to history but has also been a participant in it, suffering damages and undergoing numerous restorations. The 18th century saw lesser architectural activity in the Kremlin as the capital moved to St. Petersburg, but it retained its ceremonial significance. Post the devastating Fire of 1797, significant reconstruction was undertaken by Matvei Kazakov, who restored the Arsenal and built the Senate building. The 19th century brought further enhancements with the construction of the Great Kremlin Palace by Konstantin Thon, blending ancient structures with new designs to serve as the imperial family’s residence. This period also saw the establishment of the Armory Chamber as a museum, housing treasures of the tsars.

Throughout these periods, the Kremlin’s architecture evolved from a simple wooden fortification to an elaborate symbol of Russian power and culture, reflecting a blend of local traditions and foreign influences. Each phase of its construction and restoration has added layers to its historical and cultural significance, making it not only a center of power but also a repository of Russian architectural evolution.

Key Landmarks in the Kremlin

The Grand Kremlin Palace

The Grand Kremlin Palace, originally built between 1839 and 1849 by the order of Tsar Nicholas I, stands as a monumental testimony to Russia’s imperial history. Designed by the renowned architect Konstantin Thon, known for his Russian-Byzantine style, the palace served as the residence for the Russian tsars. Its architectural grandeur is highlighted by the St George Hall and its sequence of opulent halls, each named after orders of chivalry like St Alexander and St Andrew, reflecting the palace’s ceremonial significance. The Grand Kremlin Palace not only hosted coronation events but also served as a crucial venue for major Russian Orthodox celebrations, embodying Moscow’s role as the spiritual center of Russia, despite the capital’s relocation to St. Petersburg during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Cathedrals and Churches

Within the Kremlin walls lie some of the most historically and architecturally significant churches in Russia. The Cathedral of the Dormition, built by Italian architect Aristotele Fioravanti from 1475 to 1479, is a prime example of the fusion of Byzantine and Italian architectural styles. This cathedral, along with the Church of the Archangel and the Church of the Annunciation, forms a trio of sacred buildings that have played pivotal roles in the religious life of Russia. These cathedrals have been the site of numerous historical events, including the coronations and burials of Russian rulers. The bell tower of Ivan the Great, standing as the tallest structure within the Kremlin, further accentuates the historical depth and architectural grandeur of these religious edifices.

State Kremlin Palace

Constructed between 1959 and 1961 upon the initiative of Nikita Khrushchev, the State Kremlin Palace was originally named the Kremlin Palace of Congresses. This modernist structure marked a significant shift from the traditional architectural styles of its surroundings. Designed to host the Congress of the Communist Party and various cultural events, it now serves as a venue for concerts and performances, attracting global artists and audiences. The palace’s design features a blend of Soviet modernism with traditional Russian elements, characterized by its large scale and the integration of advanced architectural techniques of the time, making it a unique addition to the Kremlin complex.

Each of these landmarks within the Kremlin not only highlights the architectural evolution and historical significance of the site but also underscores its role as a center of power and culture in Russia.

Unveiling the Kremlin’s Secrets

Hidden Tunnels and Chambers

Le Kremlin has long been enveloped in an air of mystery, primarily due to its extensive network of underground tunnels and chambers. These subterranean passageways date back to medieval times and served various strategic purposes. Originally constructed for water intake and as escape routes during sieges, these tunnels have evolved in function over the centuries. Notably, in 1485, a secretive chamber was built beneath the Tainitskaya Tower, the purpose of which remains unknown due to collapsed structures and inaccessible paths discovered in the 17th century. Moreover, during the reign of Ivan the Terrible, the Beklemishevskaya Tower’s underground vaults were notoriously used as dungeons and torture chambers, connecting via a passage to the Konstantino-Eleninsky Tower.

Legends and Mysteries

The enigmatic nature of the Kremlin’s subterranean world has given rise to numerous legends and mysteries. Among the most captivating is the legend of Ivan the Terrible’s hidden library. Allegedly containing a wealth of gold-covered books and ancient manuscripts, this library was reportedly walled up in vaults beneath the Kremlin. Despite extensive searches and the allure of this legend, the library remains undiscovered, fueling ongoing speculation and intrigue. Additionally, the Kremlin’s underground has been romantically linked to various historical narratives and artifacts, often embellished during the Romantic era, which saw a surge in interest in Russia’s medieval past.

Recent Discoveries

Recent explorations and renovations have unveiled more about the Kremlin’s hidden depths. Notably, a significant discovery occurred during the early 2000s renovations of the Palace of Congresses, where previously unknown tunnels and chambers were uncovered. These findings included ancient maps and architectural plans, alongside artifacts from a medieval fortress. Another intriguing discovery was a secret underground railway system, believed to have been used for the secure movement of high-ranking officials and sensitive materials. These discoveries not only provide factual substantiation to some of the long-held legends but also continue to add layers to the historical tapestry of the Kremlin’s past.

Each revelation and scholarly investigation into the Kremlin’s underground enhances our understanding of this monumental structure’s historical and cultural significance, revealing the complexities of its construction and the strategic foresight of its architects.

Practical Information for Visitors

Access and Directions

Visitors should note that entry to the Kremlin is not accessible from Red Square but requires navigation to the Alexander Garden. There are two main entry points: Kutafiya Tower for those beginning their tour at the grounds of the Kremlin and Cathedral Square, and Borovitskaya Tower for those starting at the Armoury Chamber. It is essential for visitors to plan their route accordingly to ensure a smooth entry experience.

Opening Hours

The Moscow Kremlin offers different operational hours depending on the season. During the summer season, from mid-May to October, the opening hours are from 9:30 am to 6 pm. In the winter season, from October to mid-May, the hours are from 10 am to 5 pm. The Kremlin is closed to the public every Thursday. Additionally, the Armoury Chamber operates on a timed admission system with specific entry times at 10 am, 12 pm, 2:30 pm, and 4:30 pm, necessitating visitors to adhere to their allotted timeslot.

Tours and Guides

The Kremlin offers a variety of tour options to enhance the visitor experience. Guests can opt for guided tours available in multiple languages including French, English, Spanish, German, Italian, and Japanese. For those preferring a more flexible approach, a self-guided tour using the Kremlin’s free mobile app is advisable. The app provides detailed information on the artworks and architectural history of the buildings within the Kremlin. Additionally, various types of tour groups are accommodated, including organized groups, assembled groups, and individual orders, ensuring that all visitors’ preferences are catered to. Visitors are encouraged to use the online booking system on the museum’s website to purchase excursion tickets, where the User Agreement and Ticketing Policy provide detailed guidelines on the rights and obligations of both the Customer and the Museum.

You can find the french article on this link.