Kremlin
The Moscow Kremlin (Russian: Московский Кремль, romanized: Moskovskiy Kreml', IPA: [mɐˈskofskʲɪj ˈkrʲemlʲ]), also simply known as the Kremlin, is a fortified complex in the center of Moscow. It is the best known of the kremlins (Russian citadels), and includes five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers. In addition, within the complex is the Grand Kremlin Palace that was formerly the residence of the Russian emperor in Moscow. The complex now serves as the official residence of the Russian president and as a museum with almost three million visitors in 2017. The Kremlin overlooks the Moskva River to the south, Saint Basil's Cathedral and Red Square to the east, and Alexander Garden to the west.
| Kremlin | |
|---|---|
| Native name Russian: Московский Кремль | |
| Location | Moscow, Russia |
| Coordinates | 55°45′6″N 37°37′4″E |
| Area | 27.7 ha (0.277 km2) |
| Built | 1482–1495 |
| Official name | Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow |
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | i, ii, iv, vi |
| Designated | 1990 (14th session) |
| Reference no. | 545 |
| Region | Eastern Europe |
Location in Central Moscow Kremlin (Russia) Kremlin (Europe) | |
The name kremlin means "fortress inside a city", and is often also used metonymically to refer to the Russian government. It previously referred to the government of the Soviet Union (1922–1991) and its leaders. The term "Kremlinology" refers to the study of Soviet and Russian politics.
The Kremlin is open to the public and offers supervised tours.