Red Square, one of the most iconic and historically significant places in Moscow, is home to many of Russia’s greatest landmarks, such as St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, and the State Historical Museum. While Red Square is today a symbol of Russia’s modern history, it still bears traces of its Soviet past. These Soviet symbols offer visitors a glimpse into Russia’s Soviet era, from monumental statues to emblems hidden in plain sight.
If you’re interested in Soviet history and symbolism, this guide will help you discover where to find Soviet symbols in Red Square today, how they were used, and their significance to Russian culture.
1. The Kremlin Walls and Towers
Why Visit:
The Kremlin in Red Square is not only an important political center but also a place where Soviet symbols can still be found, particularly in the architecture and design of the Kremlin walls and towers.
Soviet Symbols:
- Hammer and Sickle Emblems: After the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, the Kremlin walls were adorned with the hammer and sickle, which became one of the most recognized symbols of the Soviet Union. While many of these symbols were removed after the collapse of the USSR in 1991, some Soviet-era emblems remain visible.
- Red Star on the Spasskaya Tower: One of the most famous Soviet symbols that remains on the Kremlin’s Spasskaya Tower is the red star at the top. The red star was a symbol of Soviet power, and it’s still proudly displayed as part of the Kremlin’s architecture.
Best Spot to See:
- The Spasskaya Tower: The red star at the top is one of the most prominent symbols associated with the Soviet Union, still standing at the heart of Moscow’s Kremlin.
Tip:
- Walk along the Kremlin Wall to explore various points where Soviet symbols, such as stars and other emblems, are subtly incorporated into the architecture.
2. Lenin’s Mausoleum
Why Visit:
Located in Red Square, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most important Soviet landmarks, both for its historical significance and the symbols it represents. The mausoleum was the final resting place of Vladimir Lenin, the leader of the Bolshevik Revolution, and serves as a tribute to his legacy in Soviet Russia.
Soviet Symbols:
- Lenin’s Portraits: Inside the mausoleum and in the area surrounding it, you can find various representations of Lenin’s face, often accompanied by Soviet symbols such as the hammer and sickle.
- Red Star: The red star is a recurring symbol of Soviet authority, and it was used throughout Lenin’s time as a symbol of the revolution. It can still be seen adorning the mausoleum and surrounding buildings.
- Soviet Plaques and Insignia: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and nearby Soviet commemorative plaques are adorned with symbols of Soviet power, including the hammer and sickle and the red star.
Best Spot to See:
- Visit the Lenin Mausoleum for a deep dive into Soviet symbolism, and take in the iconic soviet emblems that decorate the tomb and surrounding memorial spaces.
Tip:
- Keep in mind that the mausoleum is only open to visitors for limited hours, so plan ahead to ensure you get the chance to visit and see the Soviet emblems.
3. GUM Department Store
Why Visit:
The GUM Department Store, located on the eastern side of Red Square, is one of Moscow’s most famous shopping destinations, both for its historic significance and its stunning architecture. While GUM is now a modern shopping center, it originally served as a Soviet-style department store and is a perfect example of how Soviet symbols were incorporated into the daily life of the Soviet people.
Soviet Symbols:
- Soviet-era Architecture and Design: During the Soviet period, GUM was used to showcase Soviet pride and achievements, with designs that reflected Soviet ideals. While most of the Soviet symbols were replaced in the years after the collapse of the USSR, you can still find some symbols of the past in the building’s details.
- Post-Soviet Symbolism: Even after the collapse of the Soviet Union, GUM retained a sense of Soviet nostalgia. Look closely at the archways and decorative elements for subtle references to Soviet power, such as soviet stars and hammer and sickle motifs in some areas.
Best Spot to See:
- Take a walk through the upper floor of GUM and explore the architectural features, where you might spot traces of Soviet influences in the design.
Tip:
- GUM is now a modern shopping mall, so while you’ll experience a mix of traditional Russian charm and Soviet elements, expect the atmosphere to be contemporary as well.
4. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Why Visit:
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located in Alexander Garden, just outside Red Square. It’s one of Moscow’s most significant memorials to the Soviet soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. Although it honors the unknown soldier, the site remains a powerful symbol of Soviet military might and pride.
Soviet Symbols:
- Eternal Flame: The Eternal Flame, which burns at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, is one of the most enduring symbols of Soviet military remembrance. The flame serves as a symbol of the sacrifices made by Soviet soldiers.
- Soviet Military Symbols: The memorial features Soviet-era plaques and sculptures that are adorned with the hammer and sickle and red stars, symbols of Soviet victory during WWII.
Best Spot to See:
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier itself is a prime location for Soviet symbols, with the Eternal Flame as its centerpiece, surrounded by other commemorative elements.
Tip:
- The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier happens regularly, and it’s an ideal moment to observe the Soviet military symbolism.
5. Soviet Monumental Sculptures in the Nearby Muzeon Park
Why Visit:
Though not technically in Red Square, Muzeon Park (also known as the Park of Arts) is located just south of the Kremlin and is home to a significant collection of Soviet monuments. The park is an outdoor museum of Soviet sculptures and memorials, many of which feature prominent Soviet symbols.
Soviet Symbols:
- Hammer and Sickle Statues: Among the various Soviet monuments in the park, you’ll find multiple sculptures featuring the hammer and sickle, the emblem of the Soviet Union.
- Red Stars: Some of the monuments and statues still carry red stars, which were once prominent symbols of Soviet identity.
- Soviet Heroes and Leaders: Statues of famous Soviet leaders and heroes often bear Soviet symbolism, such as Lenin and Stalin, who were immortalized in Soviet art and public spaces.
Best Spot to See:
- Muzeon Park is an excellent place to see a collection of Soviet symbols outside of Red Square, including larger-than-life statues of Soviet leaders and other key historical figures.
Tip:
- Spend some time walking through Muzeon Park to immerse yourself in the history and symbolism of the Soviet era, and don’t forget to take a camera to capture these larger-than-life sculptures.
Conclusion
While Red Square is primarily a symbol of Russia’s modern identity, traces of the Soviet past are still very much present. From the Kremlin walls and Lenin’s Mausoleum to the Soviet symbols at Muzeon Park, visitors to Moscow can discover a wealth of Soviet heritage that remains embedded in the city’s architecture and public spaces. Whether you’re walking along the Kremlin walls, observing the Eternal Flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, or exploring GUM for traces of the Soviet era, there’s no shortage of places to connect with Russia’s Soviet history in Red Square and beyond.