During any season, any hour of day, Moscow thrills visitors with its artistry, history and majesty.
The Russian capital never ceases to inspire, confound, disgust or delight me in some unexpected way. This time I was thrilled to discover the capital's new obsession with 'park life'. Not just summer cafes – I've always appreciated that – but also bike paths, ping-pong clubs, outdoor theatres and dance parties. It's hip to be outside and active; and the city has accommodated with gorgeous green spaces. The Park of Culture and Leisure (aka Gorky Park) has finally come into its own – along with a new generation of health-conscious, hopeful Muscovites.
Kremlin & Red Square
The
very founding site of the city (and arguably, the country), the Kremlin
and Red Square are still at the heart of Moscow – historically,
geographically and spiritually. Feel the weight of this significance as
you wander within the walls of the ancient fortress, marvel at the
mind-boggling magnificence of St Basil's Cathedral, and pay your
respects to the revered leader of a now-defunct state. Moscow will move
you. She'll tantalise your senses, soothe your spirit, and boggle your
mind; and it all starts right here.
Performing Arts
What
is more thrilling than watching a nimble ballerina defy gravity, as she
leaps and spins across the stage at the glittering Bolshoi Theatre? Or
feeling the force of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture, just a few blocks away
from where it premiered more than a century ago? Or oohing and aahing
as circus performers soar under the big tent? The classical performing
arts in Moscow are still among the best in the world. Nowadays, even the
most traditional theatres are experimenting with innovative
arrangements, reviving lost favourites and hosting world premieres.
Whether you appreciate the classics or experiment with the contemporary,
the capital's performing arts are sure to impress.
Communist History
The
remains of the Soviet state are scattered all around the city.
Monuments remember fallen heroes and victorious battles, while museums
attempt to analyse and synthesise the past. See Lenin and Stalin – off
their pedestals – at the whimsical Art Muzeon. Step into the Socialist
Realist fantasy at VDNKh. Descend into the depths of the Soviet system
at Bunker-42 Cold War Museum. And remember the millions who suffered at
the Gulag History Museum. Nowadays, many fun or clever retro clubs and
cafes give their guests a taste of the Soviet experience. You can even
try your hand at Soviet-era arcade games (beyond Tetris).
Nightlife
People
like to talk about 'the city that never sleeps,' but they should talk
about Moscow. You don’t have to be a high-heeled glamour girl or a
deep-pocketed man about town to enjoy the capital by night. Moscow has a
club or a cafe for everyone, from nostalgia-rich retro to rocked-out
indie, from contemporary-cool art cafes to let-loose dance clubs. And no
matter where you spend the evening, all are invited to gather in the
wee hours to watch the sunrise over Moscow’s golden domes and silver
skyscrapers.
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