Cameron Highlands Tea Plantation, Malaysia

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Our World - Moscow Kremlin

When in Moscow, it will be hard to miss the Kremlin, which seems to dominate the skyline in every direction. With a handful of history, the place is absolutely enchanting and intriguing with lots of photo ops.

In the heart of the Kremlin lies the Cathedral Square where you can see six buildings: three cathedrals, two churches and Ivan the Great Bell Tower. We didn't have much time there but we managed to spend some time wandering around the square that was filled with imposing architecture and buildings.

The queue at the entrance was not very long but security was pretty strict. Bags need to be scanned and we had to go through metal detector gates like those procedures found in airports. Please note that backpacks are not allowed in but there are lockers where you can temporarily store your baggage just below the Trinity bridge.


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This is the first public park in Moscow, Alexandrovsky Garden which sits along the Kremlin's western wall. I remember how bitterly cold it was when we visited this place in winter. My hands were slightly numb with cold but glad I managed to take some good photos.


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This is the Trinity Tower, also known as Troitskaya Tower which serves as the main entrance to the Kremlin complex. It is the tallest of the Moscow Kremlin's defensive towers. I also discovered that in old times the tower used to be the entrance for patriarchs and the tsars' wives and daughters.


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A glimpse of Kremlin Senate, a late 18th-century Neoclassical structure, which used to house the government during the last century. It currently houses the Russian presidential administration.



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We came upon the Tsar Cannon, a precious item of the Kremlin’s artillery collection located just outside the Cathedral Square. Impressive as it may look, this majestic cannon was cast in 1586 and has never been used in war. Behind the cannon is the Assumption Cathedral which was built at the end of 15th century. The interior of this important cathedral is decorated with fine frescoes, fascinating artwork and galleries displaying holy relics. Sadly, photographs are strictly forbidden inside the cathedral.


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The Cathedral of the Annunciation was the private Orthodox church of the tsars. Weddings, baptisms, and other services were typically held here. I just love the pristine facade and the golden domes of the cathedral which make it a picturesque element to the Cathedral Square.


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Above is a picture of Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the tallest tower within the Cathedral square. The tower was used both as a watchtower and as a bell tower. Twenty-one bells are suspended in the bell tower and at least two dozen bell ringers were needed to set the bells into motion.

Our World

20 comments:

  1. Great pictures and I like your top commentators tools on the side bar. I need to comment more.

    Greetings,
    Filip

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  2. I like the Russian's architectural style with the round towers. The dome coverings are so beautitul!The Russian folklore music and dances I love too -more than the people and their politics.

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  3. The photos are just too good. So majestic !

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  4. Wonderful tour!! Boom And Gary of the Vermilon River, Canada.

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  5. Superb captures and what a wonderful tour you've taken us on! A beautiful city! Majestic indeed! Hope you have a great week!

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  6. you always awe me with those magnificent photos!

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  7. Love the photos...look beautiful and peaceful too

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  8. Thanks for the beautiful and interesting tour!

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  9. Thank you for the wonderful virtual tour!
    Beautiful images!!

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  10. Beautiful shots! Love the Cathedral - just lovely.

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  11. Wow! I like that giant green cannon! Awesome! : )

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  12. Wow, awesome photos. I`d love to go Moscow too sometimes. Once I was in St Petersburg, that was interesting too.

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  13. the gold domes are awesome! i wish i could visit Moscow someday. that cannon is stunning with the cathedral at the background--great shot!

    My World

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  14. Great blog. Interesting notes. ;P
    I like him here!!! ;)
    I am inviting to me: http://photographyismyexistence.blogspot.com/
    I am greeting I wish the nice evening! ^^

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  15. Thanks for taking us along to this place. Really magnificent place!

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  16. Beautiful photos, the cannon and the cathedral are great. What an interesting place to visit. Thanks for sharing your world.

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  17. Wow, so beautiful. I still can't believe you were brave enough to go in the middle of winter! Thank you for the history behind the buildings. I think people sometimes think we know it all but I certainly didn't so appreciate your post!

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  18. I see snow! Love it, long time no touch snow boo hoo! ;)

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  19. I can imagine ur fingers being numb from the cold and you took some great shots here, good job! :)

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