Moscow is the center of all Russian economy and was the nation's first capital city. It has been the center of government throughout many of the major leadership upheavals in history from Czarist Russia through Soviet occupation until the democratic Russian revitalization in the early 1990's. It lost its capital status only to regain it later and is now the center of government for Russia once again. In spite of financial difficulties through the years Moscow is home to the most billionaires in the world and has a rich technological and cultural history.

 

 

History

Moscow gets its name from the Moskva River. Its history predates most written accounts and was first occupied by feudal tribes of Slavic decent. The region continued a turbulent history of changes of occupation throughout the middle ages and survived fires and famines to remain one of the world's leading economic centers. In 1703 St. Petersburg became the capitol of Russia leaving Moscow to continue as a center of economy. In 1918 Lenin renamed St. Petersburg, Stalingrad, and moved the capitol back to Moscow.

 

Art & Museums

While St. Petersburg is often considered Russia's center of art and culture Moscow has many beautiful museums and Red Square at the center of the city is itself a cultural attraction. The State Historical Museum showcases Russian history and art and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Art holds many treasured sculptures and paintings. The Moscow Ballet is world famous as are the performances at the Bolshoi Theater. Moscow is home to two circuses botanical gardens and breath-taking cathedrals.

 

Nightlife

Moscow is a very popular entertainment spot for residents and tourists alike. On Tverskaya Street, formerly known as Goyka Street in the times of Dostoevsky, tourists can travel the same footpath of some of the most celebrated figures in history from literature to political life. Its bars and restaurants welcome the world's elite as well as tourists who enter to enjoy the culture, excitement, and delicacies of Russian cuisine.

 

How to get there

The Russian Metro train system that operates inside the city and connects Moscow to all surrounding cities is a work of art in itself. Colorful mosaics cover the walls and murals combine with stately chandeliers to give passengers a feeling of grandeur. There are many bus kiosks available throughout the city and getting from place to place is most often done by the various forms of public transportation although taxis are available. Private automobiles are common but there is a great lack of parking available and most residents chose to make use of the available transit options instead.