Lenin's Mausoleum to Close for Maintenance from February 18 to April 14, 2025

The Federal Protective Service (FSO) of Russia has announced a temporary suspension of access to the Mausoleum of V.I. Lenin and the necropolis near the Kremlin Wall. From February 18 to April 14, 2025, the sites will be closed to visitors due to scheduled maintenance work.

Maintenance: Details and History

As clarified by the FSO press service, the technical maintenance of the Mausoleum is carried out every two years. As part of the work, specialists check the life support systems, including the temperature regime and equipment necessary for the preservation of Lenin's body. Sources in the department note that some of the activities are related to biochemical monitoring, as well as updating the infrastructure. In addition, during this period, procedures for the care of the embalmed body of the founder of the USSR are traditionally carried out. Employees of the All-Russian Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants inspect the sarcophagus, adjust the composition of the preservative solutions if necessary, and replace Lenin's suit—this happens every few years.

Operating Hours and Previous Closures

Under normal circumstances, the Mausoleum is open for visits on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 to 13:00. The last time access was suspended was in June 2024 due to events for graduates on Red Square.

Discussions on the Future of the Mausoleum

The topic of Lenin's reburial remains a subject of public debate. In August 2024, former Prime Minister Sergei Stepashin stated that the issue of the necropolis near the Kremlin Wall requires a resolution, but in his opinion, the leader's body should not be disturbed. The Kremlin has repeatedly emphasized that changing the status of the Mausoleum is not under discussion. After the completion of the work, on April 15, 2025, access for visitors will resume in the standard mode.