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There are a lot of outstanding historical landmarks in Moscow.

The most famous is of course Red Square.

Red Square is the heart of Moscow and the main square of Russia. It is the most visited place. The most famous Moscow sights, such as the Moscow Kremlin and St. Basil's Cathedral are located near Red Square. The square is located in the city centre, along of the Kremlin eastern wall. Red Square of Moscow is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.

The total length of Red Square is 330 meters, width - 70 meters, the area is about 23,1 m². Originally Red Square was called the “Torg” (Market). In the 16^th century it was known as Trinity Square (after Trinity Church). After the big fire of 1571, the square was called “Pozhar (Fire) Square”. Since the second half part of the 17^th century, the square became known as Red Square (“Krasnaya Ploschad”- the Russian word, krasnaya, means “red” or “beautiful”). Red Square has always been the main square of the center of the city, and its history dates back to the 1490s when a new red brick Kremlin was built in Moscow.

Standing in Red Square, you can see the most significant buildings of different styles and centuries – from the 15^th to the 20^th – coexist in a single composition, forming a unified architectural ensemble, so beautiful in its diversity: the Kremlin, GUM department store, the State History Museum, Lenin's Mausoleum and of course, St Basil’s Cathedral. Not only tourists but Muscovites as well come here to take pictures, to enjoy a stroll, beautiful square and buildings.

Red Square still remains in the thick of the country’s life, hosting festivals, concerts, and street parties and turning into an ice-skating rink in winter. Annual parades are held in the square on May 9 to commemorate the victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945.

Red Square is the must-see sight of Moscow. If you want to learn more, your Moscow tour guide will tell you about its fascinating history.

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Learn interesting facts of the history of Red Square.
How did it get its name? What role has Red Square always played in the life of the city?

Have you ever visited Red Square? Tell about your experience.
Why is Red Square the heart of Moscow?