The Lenin Mausoleum is one of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks, located in Red Square right next to the Kremlin. The mausoleum is a place of great historical significance, housing the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin, the leader of the Bolshevik Revolution. While entering the mausoleum itself to see Lenin’s body is a profound experience, there are several spots around Red Square and the Kremlin where you can capture stunning views of the mausoleum and its surroundings. Here’s a guide to the best places where you can admire and photograph the Lenin Mausoleum from different angles.
1. Red Square
Overview
The most obvious and iconic spot to see the Lenin Mausoleum is right in Red Square. The mausoleum itself is located directly on the eastern edge of the square, making it visible from almost anywhere within the area. Red Square is Moscow’s main square, steeped in history, and offers several vantage points for viewing the Lenin Mausoleum.
Best Views in Red Square
- From the Kremlin Wall: As you walk along the edge of Red Square facing the Kremlin, you’ll be able to see the Lenin Mausoleum standing next to the Kremlin Wall. The mausoleum’s red granite exterior contrasts beautifully with the Kremlin’s brick walls and provides a dramatic focal point against the backdrop of St. Basil’s Cathedral and GUM shopping mall.
- Facing the Mausoleum from the Center of Red Square: Standing in the center of Red Square facing the Kremlin, the Lenin Mausoleum is directly in front of you. This vantage point is perfect for capturing the mausoleum’s architectural details and its placement within Red Square.
Why It’s Great
- The Lenin Mausoleum is central to the history of Russia, and Red Square offers the best context for photographs of both the mausoleum and the Kremlin.
- You can also capture other iconic landmarks like St. Basil’s Cathedral, the State Historical Museum, and the Spasskaya Tower from this vantage point.
2. Manege Square
Overview
Manege Square is located just to the west of Red Square, next to the Manege Building, which houses exhibition spaces and cultural events. From here, you can enjoy a more expansive view of Red Square, including the Lenin Mausoleum.
Best Views of the Lenin Mausoleum
- From Manege Square: Standing near the Manege Building, you’ll have a great view of Red Square, with the Lenin Mausoleum visible just to the east. This viewpoint offers a unique angle, showing the mausoleum in relation to the Kremlin walls and the state museum complex.
- Walking Around Manege Square: The square itself is wide open, providing several spots to capture photos of the Lenin Mausoleum. The wide sidewalks and large open space give you room to capture the mausoleum without feeling crowded.
Why It’s Great
- The view from Manege Square gives you a unique, wide-angle perspective of Red Square and the Kremlin.
- It’s often less crowded than Red Square, making it easier to take photographs and enjoy the views of Lenin’s Mausoleum.
3. Near the Moscow River
Overview
While Red Square and Manege Square provide great views of the Lenin Mausoleum, another fantastic spot for capturing this iconic monument is from the banks of the Moscow River. Walking along the river embankment gives you a chance to see the Kremlin and Lenin Mausoleum in the broader context of the Moscow skyline.
Best Views from the Moscow River
- View from the Kremlin Embankment: Stroll along the Kremlin Embankment, which runs along the southern edge of the Kremlin, offering a direct view of the Lenin Mausoleum from across the Moscow River. From here, you can capture the Kremlin Wall, the Lenin Mausoleum, and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower with the river in the foreground.
- Cruise on the Moscow River: For a more dynamic view, consider taking a Moscow River cruise that passes the Kremlin and the Lenin Mausoleum. The boat ride offers a rare perspective of the mausoleum and its surroundings from the water.
Why It’s Great
- The Moscow River offers a completely different angle for viewing the Lenin Mausoleum, with the Kremlin and Kremlin Towers in the backdrop.
- It’s also an excellent way to combine sightseeing with a relaxed activity, providing great photo opportunities from the river.
4. From the Ivan the Great Bell Tower
Overview
If you’re looking for the most panoramic view of the Lenin Mausoleum, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower is the perfect spot. As the tallest structure in the Kremlin, the bell tower offers some of the best views of Moscow from above.
Best Views from the Ivan the Great Bell Tower
- From the Observation Deck: The Ivan the Great Bell Tower has an observation deck that offers breathtaking views of Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Lenin Mausoleum. From this height, you can take in the entire square, giving you a stunning aerial view of the mausoleum and its surrounding area.
- 360-Degree Views: From the top, you can also see other famous Moscow landmarks, such as St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Spasskaya Tower, and the Moscow River.
Why It’s Great
- The view from the Ivan the Great Bell Tower offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the Lenin Mausoleum in the context of Red Square and the Kremlin complex.
- It’s also a fantastic opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the mausoleum from an entirely different perspective.
5. Zaryadye Park
Overview
Located just to the south of Red Square, Zaryadye Park is a modern park that provides a mix of natural beauty and stunning views of Moscow’s historic center, including the Lenin Mausoleum.
Best Views from Zaryadye Park
- Floating Bridge: The floating bridge in Zaryadye Park offers incredible panoramic views of Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Lenin Mausoleum. The bridge extends over the Moscow River, providing a striking vantage point of the Kremlin and Lenin’s Mausoleum in the foreground.
- Park’s Viewing Platforms: Other elevated spots in the park offer great opportunities to capture the mausoleum with the river or Kremlin as your background.
Why It’s Great
- Zaryadye Park offers a modern and stylish spot for viewing and photographing the Lenin Mausoleum and Red Square, while providing a peaceful environment to relax in between sightseeing.
Conclusion
The Lenin Mausoleum is an iconic and historical site that offers numerous opportunities for photography and admiring the Soviet leader’s resting place. The best views can be found in a variety of spots, including Red Square, Manege Square, the Moscow River, and the Ivan the Great Bell Tower. Whether you prefer a ground-level perspective or an elevated view, these locations provide unique vantage points to appreciate the mausoleum in the context of Moscow’s monumental landmarks. Be sure to take time to enjoy the stunning views and capture the essence of Lenin’s Mausoleum during your visit!