Kitay-gorod

Kitay-gorod is one of the most significant historic districts of the Russian capital, occupying an area of about 70 hectares in the very center of Moscow. This unique corner includes Red Square, the picturesque Zaryadye Park, and three famous streets — Nikolskaya, Ilyinka, and Varvarka. Since ancient times, the district has played an important role in the city's business life while preserving a rich cultural heritage. The territory of Kitay-gorod is home to world-famous architectural monuments such as the Saint Basil's Cathedral, the majestic GUM department store, the historic Gostiny Dvor, and the Kazan Cathedral. Thousands of Muscovites and visitors come here daily to admire ancient Orthodox monasteries, churches, and chapels, experiencing centuries of Russian history firsthand.

Where Kitay-gorod is Located

The district is situated in the Tverskoy Administrative District of Moscow, between the Moscow Kremlin, Okhotny Ryad, and the Moskva River. Coordinates: 55.755435, 37.628232. The area is open for visitors around the clock, though individual museums and churches operate according to their own schedules.

The History of Kitay-gorod

Medieval Fortifications

At the end of the 14th century, when Muscovites anticipated an invasion by Tamerlane's troops, a strategic decision was made to fortify the city on the eastern side of the Kremlin. Around the rapidly expanding settlement, a moat was dug, which served for over a century as the only protection for the inhabitants of the growing trading district.

Construction of Stone Walls

Under Elena Glinskaya, mother of Tsar Ivan IV the Terrible, large-scale fortification works began. A new large moat was dug, and the construction of powerful limestone walls commenced. The project was entrusted to the Italian architect Petrok Maly Fryazin, who had a deep understanding of designing fortifications impervious to artillery. Completed in 1538, the Kitay-gorod walls extended over 2.5 kilometers and adjoined two corner Kremlin towers — Arsenalnaya and Beklemishevskaya. The fortifications were three-tiered, relatively low but strong, with platforms for artillery placements. Twelve powerful towers rose on the walls, and several gates led into the district. When the fortifications lost their defensive purpose, additional gates were built for the convenience of city residents. In the early 19th century, sections of the walls adjacent to the Kremlin were demolished. The remaining parts were dismantled during a major city center reconstruction in 1934.

The Origin of the Name

The origin of the name Kitay-gorod has been debated by historians for decades. There are several theories: The most common theory is that the name comes from the Old Russian word "kita", which meant a bundle of poles used in the construction of fortress fortifications. Another theory suggests the name may derive from the Italian words citta or cittadelle, meaning a fortification or citadel. There is also a Turkic-origin theory from the word "katai", meaning fortress or city. Some researchers believe the Tatar word "kitay" meaning "middle" was used. There is also a hypothesis linking the name to trade with China — several centuries ago, any foreign-made fabric in Russia was called "kitayka."

What to See in Kitay-gorod

Preserved Fragments of Ancient Fortifications

Kitay-gorod Walls and Towers In modern Moscow, fragments of ancient fortifications can still be seen. Stone masonry remains in Kitaygorodsky Proezd and Revolution Square. Part of the foundation of the old Varvarka Tower is located in the pedestrian underpass near Kitay-gorod metro station. The only surviving tower of the Kitay-gorod wall — the Bird Tower — rises on Teatralny Proezd. Voskresensky Gate Double passage gates that once led into Kitay-gorod occupy the opening between the State Duma building and the State Historical Museum. The gates were first constructed in 1538 by architect Petrok Maly and rebuilt in 1680. In 1931, the historic monument was demolished but restored in 1995. Iverskaya Chapel The reconstructed Orthodox chapel is located near Voskresensky Gate. The first wooden chapel on this site was built in 1648 for the icon of the Iveron Mother of God, brought to Moscow from Mount Athos. The modern building is a replica of the stone chapel designed by Matvey Kazakov, rebuilt in 1995.

Ancient Streets and Architectural Monuments

Varvarka Street One of Moscow's oldest streets, only 550 meters long. It is home to several churches from the 15th–17th centuries, the Znamensky Monastery, the Old Gostiny Dvor, the Romanov Boyar Chambers, and the Old English Court. Museums with fascinating historical collections are open in the old buildings. Zaryadye Park A popular landscaped park in southern Kitay-gorod, built on the site of the demolished Russia Hotel. Visitors can walk among plants from different climatic zones of Russia, visit the "Ice Cave", and enjoy attractions such as "Flight over Russia" and "Flight over Moscow." Particularly popular is the "Floating" Bridge, offering panoramic views of the river and embankments.

Churches and Cathedrals of Kitay-gorod

Kazan Cathedral

The cathedral was built in memory of the liberation of Moscow from Polish-Lithuanian invaders in 1612. Construction was funded by Prince Dmitry Pozharsky in gratitude to God for victory. The building was elegant and cozy, used for many years as the home church of the royal family. The fate of the cathedral during Soviet times was tragic. Under Stalin, it was decided to demolish it. The famous restorer Pyotr Dmitrievich Baranovsky carefully measured all parts of the church and documented its interior. Thanks to his work, the demolished church was restored in 1993 to its original historical form. Kazan Cathedral became the first Orthodox church restored in Moscow after the Soviet period.

Saint Basil's Cathedral

The grand cathedral was built by order of Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the victory over the Kazan Khanate in 1552. It is a complex of 11 churches on a single foundation, most named after saints whose feast days coincided with the key battles for Kazan. The cathedral is named after Vasily the Blessed, a holy fool who taught morality and lived as a moral example. Its exterior is a bright decorative masterpiece with numerous columns, pilasters, cornices, and tiles. The murals are so varied that it is almost impossible to find two identical designs. The museum houses a collection of Old Russian icons and church utensils dating back to the 16th century. The cathedral is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and serves as a museum where services, exhibitions, and lectures are held.

Church of St. Nicholas in Klyonniks

The history of the church dates back to 1468. It was built by a vow of Tsar Ivan the Terrible to commemorate the salvation of the Kremlin from fire. The church was rebuilt several times and gained its current appearance in the 1920s. It houses the icon of the Theodorovskaya Mother of God and relics of Saints Theodosius of Totma and Sergius of Radonezh. The church was closed in 1932 and later desecrated. In 1990, it was returned to the faithful, who restored the domes, crosses, and interior.

Trinity Church in Nikitniki

One of the masterpieces of Russian ornamental architecture, located in the unassuming Nikitnikov Lane. It is believed this church served as a model for many Moscow churches in the second half of the 17th century. Travelers linger here, admiring the vibrant tiles, exquisite kokoshniks, and unique white-stone carvings. The church was funded by the Yaroslavl merchant Grigory Nikitnikov. The frescoes are attributed to masters of the Armory Chamber, Iosif Vladimirov and Simon Ushakov. The main shrine since the mid-17th century is the icon of the Georgian Mother of God.

Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist

One of Moscow's most modest churches, built in the 16th century. It lacks the tiles and ornamental details typical of Orthodox architecture. This humble parish church was closed during Soviet times but miraculously survived destruction. At the beginning of this century, the building was returned to the Orthodox Church. During restoration, the bell tower's decor and facades were restored, and interior restoration continues.

Monasteries of Kitay-gorod

Kitay-gorod is home to four monasteries — Znamensky, Nikolo-Grechesky, Epiphany, and Zaikonospassky. Each is a unique architectural monument with a rich history. In addition to the monasteries, more than a dozen old churches are located in the district.

Nearby Attractions

Lutheran Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul

The church was named by Peter the Great. By his order, the building was constructed and consecrated in 1694–1695 in honor of the apostles Peter and Paul. The cathedral suffered several fires and reconstructions, and during Soviet times belonged to the "Diafilm" studio. The church's modern history began in 1992. The building was transferred to the Lutheran Church and restored in an eclectic Neo-Gothic style. Since the mid-2000s, services are held with organ accompaniment and a professional choir, along with organ concerts.

Church of All Saints

Grand Duke Dmitry Donskoy ordered the construction of the church in 1380 to commemorate victory at the Battle of Kulikovo. He wanted a place in Moscow to honor the heroes of this historic battle. As each fallen soldier had the name of his heavenly patron, the church-monument was named the Church of All Saints. In the 1990s, the building was returned to the Orthodox Church, restored, and now holds services. The church's shrines include the icon of the Mother of God "Pantanassa" and two reliquaries with saints' relics.

Kitay-gorod in Different Seasons

The historic district is beautiful in any season. The change of seasons is especially noticeable in Zaryadye Park and along the Moskva River embankment. During New Year, the city center is decorated with beautiful lights and festive Christmas trees. From late November to late February, a free ice rink operates on Red Square. Each session lasts one hour.

Photography and Best Spots

This colorful corner of Moscow is interesting to photograph in daylight and in the evening when decorative lighting is on. Beautiful shots can be taken at Red Square, from the "Floating" Bridge in Zaryadye Park, on historic streets, and near Kitay-gorod monuments. Fans of church architecture enjoy photographing the facades and interiors of old monasteries, cathedrals, and churches. In the evening, when offices are closed, the district turns into a fairy-tale setting, reminiscent of historical movie sets.

How to Get to Kitay-gorod

Reaching this famous historical and cultural site in Moscow is easy. One can walk to Red Square, stand with your back to the Kremlin — everything in front of you is called Kitay-gorod. Another option is to take the Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya metro line to "Kitay-gorod" station. From Lubyanka and Kuznetsky Most stations, it’s a 2–3 minute walk. From Ploshchad Revolyutsii and Teatralnaya stations, 8–10 minutes on foot. Buses also reach the city center. For those traveling by car, note that all downtown parking is paid.

Entrance Fees

Group tours of Kitay-gorod attractions — from 850 rubles. Zaryadye Park — free entry. Underground museum — 200 rubles. Old English Court Museum — 350 rubles. Romanov Boyar Chambers Museum — 500 rubles for adults, 250 rubles for students and children aged 7–17.

Interesting Facts

Kitay-gorod has served as Moscow's business center since ancient times. In the second half of the 19th century, the district became not only a trading but also a business hub. Due to the high building density, most entrepreneurs rented offices instead of constructing their own. The largest historic building in Kitay-gorod is Gostiny Dvor, which was the main trade venue in 19th-century Moscow. During the 1990s renovation, its basement yielded the largest treasure ever found in Moscow: 120,000 coins in 12 silver containers. The district is part of the Tverskoy Administrative District and serves as a cultural, business, and administrative center. Kitay-gorod’s streets are perfect for photography, and walking through them offers a wealth of impressions.

Conclusion

Kitay-gorod in Moscow is a unique place where several historical eras converge within a small urban area. The district features fiery Gothic, Russian ornamental architecture, and Moscow Baroque. This blend of architectural styles gives the area a distinctive and unforgettable appearance. Kitay-gorod can be explored independently or with a guide. Cafes and snack bars are everywhere, and souvenir shops offer keepsakes for every taste. After a full day of exploring, one can be amazed by its magical transformation under night illumination.