Kremlin

The Moscow Kremlin is a fortified complex in the centre of Moscow that functions as the official residence of the President of Russia and as a historic seat of power. The site includes palaces, cathedrals and government offices within its fortified walls and is part of the Kremlin and Red Square UNESCO World Heritage site.

Key highlights within the Kremlin include the 15th-century cathedrals on Cathedral Square, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Armoury Chamber with its collection of state regalia and imperial objects. The Kremlin walls and towers, built in the late 15th century, enclose courtyards and monumental buildings across roughly 28 hectares.

The fortified Moscow complex was substantially rebuilt under Ivan III in the late 15th century using Italian architects, who designed the current Kremlin walls and many of the principal buildings. Over subsequent centuries the site served as the seat of the Tsars, later the Soviet government, and today as the official presidential residence and a museum complex.

The Kremlin sits on the Moskva River bank in central Moscow, adjacent to Red Square and within walking distance of other central landmarks such as the State Historical Museum and the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.

• Visitor logistics: Security controls are in place at entrances and visiting hours vary by season; allow extra time for bag checks and queues at popular sites such as the Armoury.
• Photography rules: Photo rules differ between outdoor areas, cathedral interiors and the Armoury - check signage or staff guidance on flash and tripod restrictions.

What to See #

• Cathedral square (major cathedrals): A cluster of historic churches built between the 15th and 16th centuries that served as the coronation and burial churches of Russian tsars, notable examples are the Assumption Cathedral (Uspensky), Annunciation Cathedral and Cathedral of the Archangel.
• Ivan the Great Bell Tower: A 16th-century bell tower rising within the complex, historically the tallest structure in Moscow and used as a watchtower and bell tower.
• Armoury Chamber (Armoury): The Armoury Chamber is a museum of imperial regalia, ceremonial carriages, Fabergé objects and state treasures dating from the medieval period through the imperial era.