This incredible city, the political, cultural and economic capital of the vast nation that is Russia, has undergone extraordinary changes throughout its history, particularly in the years since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Its medieval roots are juxtaposed against architecture constructed during the largest communist system the world has known; icons such as the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral cast shadows over Lenin’s mausoleum in Red Square. Everything is well connected by an efficient metro system and some of the stations are architectural masterpieces in their own right. The city has a rich heritage of performing arts and boasts some of the world’s best theatre and opera.

The Kremlin, the seat of political power for centuries, has an imposing edifice and behind these fortified walls lie a wealth of interesting buildings including several cathedrals, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the treasure-filled armoury. Nearby is Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral, one of the country’s most evocative sights. The Novodevichy Convent is a cluster of gold and silver domes beside the Moscow River. Founded in 1524 is has held an important place in Russian history ever since.