Hotel National

In the very center of the Russian capital, at the intersection of Tverskaya and Mokhovaya streets, stands the majestic building of the «National» hotel — one of Moscow's most famous five-star hotels. This luxurious architectural monument of federal significance is located just a few steps from the Kremlin and Red Square, making it an ideal place for those who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the city's historic center.

History of the National Hotel

The Birth of the Legendary Hotel

On the site of the modern National Hotel building, in the late 18th century, there were apartment houses owned by the merchant Moskvina. By the 19th century, buildings with inexpensive apartments and retail shops on the ground floors appeared here. An architectural feature of these buildings was the corner projection of an interesting semicircular shape, which was preserved in subsequent projects. The grand opening of the hotel took place on December 29, 1902, and the first guests were accommodated on January 1, 1903. The design of the six-story building was developed by the talented St. Petersburg architect Alexander Ivanov, who created a unique structure in the Art Nouveau style with decorative elements of Neoclassicism and Neo-Renaissance.

Architectural Features of the Building

The finest materials of the time were used in construction:

• Natural stone and marble for finishing
• Artistic stucco on facades and interiors
• Handmade mosaic floors
• Stained glass windows with unique patterns
• High-quality ceramic tiles

On the corner attic of the building was placed a large-scale panel «Apollo and the Muses», which became one of the hotel's recognizable symbols. The hotel was originally conceived as a fashionable premium-class establishment, equipped with cutting-edge technical innovations of the early 20th century.

Technical Equipment and Innovations

For its time, the National Hotel was a true marvel of technical progress. In the 160 rooms of the hotel were installed:

• Electric elevators for comfortable guest movement
• Telephone connection in every room
• Water closets and modern plumbing
• Baths with hot water
• Air ventilation system

Such equipment made the National Hotel one of the most comfortable in Moscow and throughout the Russian Empire.

Famous Guests and Historical Events

Pre-Revolutionary Period

Outstanding figures of culture and art stayed within the hotel's walls:

• Fyodor Chaliapin — the great Russian opera singer
• Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov — the famous composer
• Numerous representatives of the aristocracy and merchant class

On the first two floors of the building, restaurants, a confectionery, and shops selling fur products and other luxury goods operated.

Soviet Era

In 1918, the authorities of the RSFSR nationalized the hotel and renamed it the 1st House of Soviets. The rooms were allocated for accommodation of party and state officials. On the first floor, Vladimir Lenin temporarily lived with his wife Nadezhda Krupskaya and sister Maria Ulyanova before moving to the Kremlin. Interesting fact: it was in the hotel's restaurant that the artist Andrei Ioganson created the legendary label for the vodka «Stolichnaya», which later became recognizable worldwide.

Reconstructions and Restorations

Renovation in Soviet Times

In 1931-1932, the building underwent a large-scale reconstruction. Antique furniture from the residences of famous aristocrats was installed in the updated premises, giving the interiors special historical value.

Revival of the Historical Appearance

The most significant restoration took place from 1991 to 1995 with the participation of the organization «Mosproekt-2». During the works:

1. The original appearance of the historical suites was restored
2. Unique antique furniture was installed in premium category rooms
3. Decorative elements of the facade were restored
4. The engineering infrastructure was updated while preserving the historical spirit

After completion of the restoration, the hotel was awarded the highest category of «five stars», and it officially entered the list of monuments of history and culture of federal significance.

The Modern National Hotel

Room Stock

Today, the six-story building houses 206 rooms, including 56 exclusive suite category rooms. Each room is equipped with:

• Satellite and cable television
• Telephones, including in bathrooms
• Minibar and air conditioning system
• Hairdryer and trouser press
• Modem connection socket
• Modern double-glazed windows

Guests are provided with complimentary press, bathrobes, and slippers. Many rooms offer stunning views of Red Square and Manezhnaya Square.

VIP Floor

On a separate floor are upgraded rooms with a range of additional services. Most of them have individual design, and some are decorated with unique ceiling paintings. These rooms are equipped with faxes and copiers, computers with printers and scanners.

Room Categories

Standard Rooms:

• Single — area from 9.8 to 13.5 sq.m with a single bed
• Double — area from 15.2 to 22.0 sq.m with a wide double bed

Studio Rooms: area from 18.5 to 42 sq.m, possibility of extra beds, balcony, and extended bathroom with bidet. Business Apartments: area 32-42 sq.m on the VIP floor with balcony and premium equipment.

Restaurants and Bars

Moskovsky Restaurant

The «Moskovsky» Restaurant is among the top ten best restaurants in Moscow and offers guests exquisite dishes of Russian and Italian cuisine. Features of the establishment:

• Interior in Art Nouveau style with a fireplace and paintings in gilded frames
• Panoramic view of the Kremlin and Manezhnaya Square
• Live music performed by famous singers in the evenings
• Dishes prepared according to ancient recipes

Aleksandrovsky Bar

Open from 07:00 to 05:00, offering guests:

• The largest collection of cognac in Moscow
• Piano music in the evening
• Broadcasts of Eurosport channel sports events

Confectionery with Legendary Desserts

In one of the hotel's confectioneries, the best Berlin cookies in the capital are sold. Connoisseurs of this dessert arrive early to see the freshly baked cookies being brought into the hall with the unforgettable aroma of lemon glaze.

Business Center and Conference Halls

The National Hotel has a modern business center, including:

• 14 conference halls with capacity from 6 to 150 people
• Computers with internet access
• Copiers, faxes, and scanners
• Modern projection and audio equipment
• Interpreter services
• Email and technical support

Wellness Center and Additional Services

Wellness Zone

Available to guests:

• Pool with jacuzzi
• Sauna and solarium
• Modern gym

Guerlain Beauty Salon

The prestigious Guerlain salon offers a wide range of services for women and men, including new hairstyles, manicures, and other cosmetic procedures.

Additional Hotel Services

• Laundry and dry cleaning
• Car rental and all types of transfers
• Ticket booking for theaters and concerts
• Organization of excursion programs
• Booking of air and railway tickets
• 24-hour room service

Interesting Facts about the Hotel

The «Ninochki» Team: The hotel employs the most professional team of external observation staff. «Ninochki» refer to specially trained employees — doormen, waiters, maids — who ensure the safety and comfort of guests. Unique Photo Gallery: The hotel features a photo gallery with rare shots of famous guests from different eras. Historical Rooms: Preserved and open for visits are Louis's lounge and Vladimir Lenin's room, where he lived with Nadezhda Krupskaya.

Location and How to Get There

Address

Moscow, 125009, Mokhovaya Street, 15/1, building 1

Metro Stations

Within walking distance are the stations:

• Okhotny Ryad — just 5 meters from the hotel
• Teatralnaya
• Aleksandrovsky Sad
• Biblioteka Imeni Lenina
• Ploshchad Revolyutsii

Distances to Airports

• Sheremetyevo — 32 km
• Domodedovo — 45 km
• Vnukovo — 37 km

Railway Stations

The nearest station is Belorussky (4 km). Any capital station can be reached by metro in 15-20 minutes.

Advantages of the National Hotel

The National Hotel is a unique combination of historical heritage and modern comfort. The hotel is part of the prestigious Luxury Collection group and is the only representative of this high-class hotel brand in Moscow. By choosing the National Hotel, guests receive:

1. Accommodation in a historical building — an architectural monument of federal significance
2. Unique location in the very center of Moscow near the main attractions
3. Rooms with views of the Kremlin and Red Square
4. World-class service according to five-star standards
5. Authentic atmosphere of the early 20th century combined with modern amenities

Just a few steps from the hotel are Alexandrovsky Garden with fountains and greenery, Red Square, the Moscow Kremlin, the Mausoleum, and the Bolshoi Theater — the main symbols of the Russian capital. Booking phone: +7 (495) 258-7000
Official website: www.national.ru The National Hotel in Moscow is not just a place to stay, but an opportunity to touch history, feel the spirit of the era, and enjoy legendary Russian hospitality in the heart of the capital.