Moscow - the capital of the Russian Federation - is situated in the center of the European part of Russia, on the banks of the Moskva River. Moscow was founded in 1147 by Prince Yuri Dolgoruky.
Until 1712 it was the capital of the Russian State, until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg.
In 1918, Moscow had once again become the nation's capital. Moscow is famous for numerous places of interest and architectural monuments. The heart of the capital is the Kremlin which stands on the crest of a hill above the Moskva River. It is flanked by Red Square, which is crowned by the unique and beautiful St. Basil's Cathedral.
Moscow has many modern buildings - the Moscow State University, the Central Stadium in Luzhniki which hosted the 1980 Olympic Games, and the Ostankino TV Tower (536 meters high), one of the tallest towers in the world.
Moscow is a city of theaters, among them the world famous Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theater. There are numerous museums, exhibition halls and art galleries throughout the city, the most famous being the Tretyakov Gallery - a treasure trove of Russian art, ancient Russian icons (11th-17th centuries), graphics and sculptures. Those interested in ancient history may visit churches and cathedrals some dating as early as the 15th century. The Vorobyovy Hills - the highest place in Moscow - provide a breathtaking view of the city for all to enjoy.
