The Moscow Kremlin is not only the seat of the government, but also one of the oldest architectural ensembles in Russia. There are many interesting historical monuments on its territory.
The Kremlin itself was created as a military fortification and existed even during the tribal system. The Kremlin acquired its modern look in the 15th century, when the old white-stone wall was destroyed and replaced by a red brick wall with towers.
As conceived by the architects, Cathedral Square became the center of the palace ensemble. On its territory were built the oldest Kremlin churches that have survived to this day - the Annunciation, Archangel and Assumption Cathedrals, as well as the Ivan the Great bell tower - this was the tallest building in Moscow until the 18th century. The Faceted Chamber, a structure built by order of Ivan III, is located in the same place. It served as a reception room at the palace, as well as a place for celebrating major state events.
In the 17th century, the Terem Palace was added to the Faceted Chamber. The tsar and his family lived there from the time of Mikhail Romanov to the transfer of the capital to St. Petersburg.
In the 18th century, construction continued on the territory of the Kremlin. An Arsenal was built to store weapons supplies. In the 19th century, it was a museum of the Patriotic War, and now it is an administrative building for the needs of the government.
In the next century, the Grand Kremlin Palace was built in the southern part of the Kremlin. Now this building plays the role of the president's ceremonial residence, where ambassadors are received, inaugurations and other official ceremonies are held.
In the same period, the Armory was built. This is one of the most interesting museums in the Moscow Kremlin, where numerous treasures are kept, donated by foreign ambassadors and owned by the tsars. One of the most famous exhibits is the Monomakh Hat.
In general, the Kremlin is the most valuable monument of Russian and world history and is included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list.
