world heritage sites tourism

19 Top World Heritage Sites

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

Author Lana Law has visited many of the top World Heritage Sites on her global journeys.

For centuries, or even millennia, some of the most astounding sites of ancient times were forgotten or hidden from the world, buried under jungles, deserts, or farmers' fields around the globe. Rumors of lost cities or chance discoveries by people going about their everyday lives have led to unimaginable finds that are today open for the world to see. Many of these have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Some of these incredible sites have been attracting tourists for hundreds of years and are as fascinating now as they were when they were first uncovered. It may be a cliché to say there has never been a better time to explore the greatest sites on the planet, but it is also true. While they're all significant, some are arguably more impressive than others.

Explore ancient wonders with our list of the best World Heritage Sites.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

2. pyramids of giza, egypt, 3. bagan, myanmar, 4. angkor wat, cambodia, 5. great wall of china, 6. roman colosseum, italy, 7. acropolis of athens, greece, 8. stonehenge, england, 9. borobudur, indonesia, 10. mesa verde, usa, 11. terracotta army, china, 12. petra, jordan, 13. mayan ruins of tikal, guatemala, 14. lascaux and lascaux ii, france, 15. chichen itza, mexico, 16. leshan giant buddha, china, 17. easter island, 18. cappadocia, 19. taj mahal, map of world heritage sites.

Highlights : An ancient 15th-century city high in the Andes with breathtaking views

Built in lush, mountainous terrain high above the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu lies in one of the most stunning settings of any archeological site in the world. This ancient city of Incas cascades down steep walls on each side of the mountain, with terraced steps that disappear over cliff edges into the valley below.

These incredible ruins have been restored and are well-maintained, giving visitors a good indication of what the city might have looked like when it was occupied during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Many people visit Peru for the sole purpose of seeing Machu Picchu, and the journey to the ruins can be an adventure in and of itself, depending on how travelers choose to reach the site.

Adventurous souls can opt for a guided, multi-day hike and camping trip along the famous Inca Trail to reach the site, or choose the easier option of accessing the ruins by bus from the small town of Aguas Calientes at the base of the hill, which most visitors get to by train from Cusco or the Sacred Valley .

Highlights : Majestic monuments set in the desert plains speak to human ingenuity

One of the most iconic sites in the world, the Pyramids of Giza, just outside Cairo , is a surreal sight rising from the barren desert landscape. Standing guard nearby, and almost as impressive, is the Sphinx , gazing blankly out over the land.

The pyramids were built as tombs for the Pharaohs, the largest of which was constructed between 2560 and 2540 BCE. To put their age in perspective, they were already more than 2,600 years old when the Colosseum in Rome was being built. Today, these giant monuments are the sole surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World .

For a memorable experience, take a sunset camel ride in front of the pyramids, one of the top things to do in Egypt. Also, be sure to follow the inner tunnels in the Pyramid of Chephren or the Pyramid of Cheops to the burial chamber deep inside.

• Read More: Pyramids of Giza: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Highlights : Countless thousand-year-old temples spread across an enchanting landscape

Thousands of ancient temples and stupas stretch endlessly across the landscape at Bagan, where the silhouette of the temple spires against the sky in the early morning or late day is a magical sight. The area is known for having the largest concentration of Buddhist temples in the world , many of which were built in the 1000s and 1100s, when it was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom.

Some of these have been restored, and others are little more than ruins. They also range in size and level of sophistication, creating an intriguing mix of structures that make visitors want to keep exploring the site. You can tour the area on rickety old bicycles, hire a horse and cart, take a hot air balloon ride over the site, or simply hire a taxi. Each of these methods has its own appeal.

Highlights : Ruins from the 12th century showcase the architectural mastery of the ancient Khmers

In a unique jungle setting, not far from the city of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is known for being the world's largest religious monument , but it is more than sheer size that makes the Angkor complex so interesting. The site was built by the Khmers in the 12th century, and the architecture is nothing less than stunning.

The site has an intriguing mix of excavated and unexcavated temples in varying shapes, sizes, and states of decay, with some buildings taking on a mystical appearance as they're swallowed up by trees and roots. Huge stone carved faces peer out in all directions. Extensive and intricate bas-reliefs line the walls and doorways. Crumbling passageways and steep stone stairs call out for exploration.

Before its fall in the 15th century, Angkor Wat was the largest city in the world. The complex is huge, and you may want to spend a couple of days taking in the site.

Highlights : Wonderful views from atop this Ming Dynasty marvel, cultural history

Stretching almost 6,000 kilometers as it snakes its way through forests and mountains, the Great Wall of China is one of those undeniable bucket list sites that have long inspired great adventures. This massive wall, connecting battlements and watchtowers, was built over the centuries, with the oldest sections dating back to the 7th century BCE.

Today, you can opt to simply visit the wall on a day trip from Beijing , or tackle whole sections of it on organized, multi-day trips. Some sections of the wall have been restored, while other sections are badly in need of repair.

The Great Wall of China is one of China's most photographed attractions.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Beijing

Highlights : An iconic 50,000-seat ancient amphitheater that is a must-see when visiting Rome

One of the most recognizable structures in the world, the Roman Colosseum is the largest building remaining from Roman times . Its imposing presence in the city center of modern-day Rome is a testament to the incredible history of the city and the achievements of the Roman Empire.

Visitors popping up from the nearest subway stop or turning a corner and seeing it for the first time can't help but be stunned by its immense presence. Construction began on the structure in 72 CE, and today, it is still one of the greatest tourist attractions in the world.

The Italian Government has recently announced that the floor of the Colosseum, once the battlegrounds of brave gladiators, will be restored to its former glory. This will allow the Colosseum to be used for cultural and other special events and for visitors to imagine what it would have been like to stand and look up at the roaring crowds. This work is expected to be completed in 2023.

• Read More: Visiting the Colosseum: Highlights, Tips & Tours

Highlights : Ancient monuments dating from the 4th century BCE, fantastic views over Athens

Towering over the city of Athens from its hilltop perch, the Acropolis stands as a proud monument to Ancient Greece. Dating from between the 5th and 4th century BCE and dominating the site, the Parthenon is the largest and most recognizable structure from this period and symbolizes the extensive history of this country.

Just steps away from modern-day Athens, the Acropolis is a powerful sight, glistening in the Mediterranean sun during the day and lit for dramatic effect at night. For first-time visitors to the city, it is an awe-inspiring sight and sets the stage for travelers carrying on to other parts of Greece .

• Read More: Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide

Highlights : Mysterious stones over 4,000 years old give the site a mystical air

This incredible prehistoric monument is one of the United Kingdom's most visited attractions and certainly one of its most unique places to visit, drawing huge numbers of visitors each year. The monument is thought to have been erected between 3000-1500 BCE, but there is no record of its origin or purpose, leading to all kinds of speculation and myths, some of which suggest religious or astronomical significance.

As a result, the Bronze Age ring of standing stones holds an almost mystical fascination, particularly around the summer and winter solstices, when the light from the sunrise and sunset is aligned with the stones. Located near the city of Salisbury , and not far from Bath , Stonehenge can be easily visited on a day trip from London .

Highlights : A massive temple site nearly 1,400 years old, stunning views of volcanoes in the distance

Borobudur is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world and certainly one of Indonesia's most famous landmarks. Set in lush, tropical surroundings, with mountains and volcanoes rising in the distance, the site is visually stunning and soothingly peaceful.

Located on the island of Java, near Yogyakarta, this massive temple complex was constructed in the 700s, but two to three hundred years later, the site was abandoned, possibly due to volcanic eruptions in the area, and went relatively undisturbed for centuries. The site was uncovered in the 1800s by the British and later restored. Today, it is one of the most important tourist attractions in Indonesia and one of the best places to photograph in the country .

Highlights : Fascinating cliff dwellings perched under massive rock ledges

Mesa Verde is home to one of the most visually stunning archeological sites in the USA and some of the most well-preserved Indian ruins in North America. The most impressive sites are the cliff dwellings tucked precariously into the canyon walls, but the entire area, including the forest-covered plateau, contains a vast array of ruins.

The Ancestral Puebloans inhabited this area of what is now Colorado for hundreds of years, living on top of the plateau between the 6th and 12th centuries and then in the cliff dwellings until the late 13th century. The drive up to the site is along a gently twisting road to the top of the mesa, where you can tour the sites on the plateau by car to see pit houses and other ruins, and enjoy stunning views of the dwellings in the canyon walls.

Those who are up for a slight physical challenge can take a guided tour through some of the cliff dwellings, climbing up ladders and exploring the site in detail.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of Mesa Verde National Park

Highlights : An incredible display of nearly 8,000 intricately carved clay warriors

Standing guard over the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, the Terracotta Army is like no other archeological site in the world.

Thousands upon thousands of life-sized warriors , each with a unique face, stand in rows, where they have stood since they were buried here in the 3rd century BCE. It is estimated that some 700,000 workers were involved in the creation of the site, which is thought to have approximately 8,000 clay warriors.

The site remained undiscovered for millennia, until a farmer was digging a well in the 1970s and uncovered the treasure. Some of the site remains intentionally not excavated, but you can't help but be more than impressed by the massive army that stands before you.

Highlights : A 5,000-year-old city carved out of rose-red stone, reached via a secret passageway

A dramatic, narrow rock gorge allows entrance to the ancient city of Petra, a stone city with dwellings hewn into sandstone walls . This ancient capital city of the Nabataeans has roots that trace back to as early as the 4th or 5th century BCE. Discovered by the West in the early 1800s, it has been referred to as "the rose city" for the color of the rock, and for obvious reasons, "the carved city."

Situated in a mountainous area with limited access, it held a strategic position on an important trade route in the region. Today, Petra is the most important tourist attraction in Jordan .

Read More: Visiting Petra: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Highlights : A partially restored ancient city buried in the Guatemalan jungle with more than 3,000 structures

The ancient Mayan city of Tikal is one of the greatest archeological sites in Central America. Located in northern Guatemala and surrounded by jungle, the site comprises more than 3,000 structures from a city that existed between 600 BCE and 900 CE. Ancient pyramids, temples, plazas, and foundations of all kinds of buildings reveal a complex society that housed tens of thousands of people.

The site was rediscovered in the mid-1800s and opened to the public in the 1950s. Some of the site has been restored, but work continues, with some areas not yet mapped or excavated at all. The ruins are in Tikal National Park, a biosphere reserve protecting the forest and wildlife in the area, considered one of the best places to photograph in Guatemala

Highlights : Incredible cave artwork more than 17,000 years old

The Lascaux Cave in the Dordogne region of France contains extraordinary cave paintings , thought to be some of the finest in the world from the Paleolithic period. These detailed paintings from more than 17,000 years ago primarily depict animals that are believed to have lived here during that time frame.

The paintings were discovered in 1940 but were later recreated at an adjacent site known as Lascaux II, 200 meters away, to protect the original site from damage. Painstaking care was taken in the construction of Lascaux II to create a detailed, accurate reproduction of the original cave and the paintings.

Highlight: Mexico's best restored ancient Mayan city

In the flat jungle interior of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, within easy day-tripping distance of Cancun and the Mayan Riviera , is the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. This great city of the Mayans was an important center from the 7th to the 13th centuries and was, for a time, the regional capital.

Today, it is one of the most well-restored Mayan sites in Mexico , offering an astounding glimpse into this culture. It is also one of Mexico's biggest tourist attractions. The huge pyramid is the most recognizable symbol of Chichen Itza, but the site is very large, with many ruins to explore.

• Read More: Visiting Chichén Itzá from Cancún: Highlights, Tips & Tours

Highlight : A giant Buddha carved into a cliff wall standing over 300 feet tall

Carved out of a red sandstone cliff wall, the Leshan Giant Buddha stands 71 meters and is the tallest stone Buddha in the world . Started by a single monk in 713 CE and completed 90 years later by his followers in 803 CE, the statue looks out over the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi Rivers. It was built with the hope that it would bestow calm waters for the boats that ply this waterway.

The statement "The mountain is a Buddha and the Buddha is a mountain" is said to be attributed to this enormous statue. You can view the Leshan Giant Buddha from very close range at either the base or near the head, each offering very different perspectives.

Highlights : Giant stone monuments from the 12th century stand as silent sentinels

Easter Island is a Chilean island in the South Pacific Ocean, famous for the giant statues known as Moais , which dot the landscape. Created by the Rapa Nui people, who are thought to have inhabited the island from the 12th century onward, hundreds of Moais are spread around the island.

Some are partially toppled, while others stand erect; some stand on ahu (stone platforms), and many still remain at the quarry where they were created. Ranging in size from a meter to 20 meters, each carving is unique and thought to symbolize an ancestor.

Highlights : 5,000-year-old caves carved out of strange rock formations, sunrise balloon tours

Perhaps one of the more bizarre World Heritage Sites, Cappadocia is a place of flowing rock formations and stone-capped chimneys that just beg to be photographed. Many of the formations are located in the Monks Valley and Goreme. Consider taking one of the many hiking trails that allow you to get up close.

Nearby, in the village of Uchisar, and equally unusual, are the ancient cave homes built by the people of the Bronze Age, some 5,000 years ago. Carved out of the soft rock, the caves were later used by Christians escaping religious persecution.

One of the highlights of a trip is a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia . Even if you don't take a ride, the sight of a multitude of balloons rising over the crazy landscape is well worth a photo or two.

Highlights : White marble that glows and shimmers in the sun, intricate workmanship and detail work

An incredible testament to one man's love for his wife is embodied in the fantastic architecture of the Taj Mahal. Standing proudly for nearly 400 years, this site tops the list of India's tourist attractions , drawing millions each year.

Glowing white in the hot Indian sun, the marble seems to shimmer and glow in the heat and makes for beautiful photos. Up close, the intricate carving and inlaid stones are fascinating and show the level of craftsmanship that went into creating the building.

Pleasant walking trails, fountains, and gardens surround the monument. On the far side, the Yamuna River flows slowly by.

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Natural World Heritage Sites: While many people think of World Heritage Sites as being cultural, UNESCO also designates Natural World Heritage Sites. For information on these, see our articles on the underwater wonders of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or the mountainous landscape of Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies .

In the United States , have a look at Yosemite National Park to discover one of the most famous landscapes in America, or Yellowstone National Park to discover the geysers and other geothermal attractions. Lastly, don't miss a chance to see the Grand Canyon in Arizona, or walk below the giant redwoods in Redwoods National and State Parks .

More on Peru

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

• All Regions
• Tourism at World Heritage Sites – Challenges and Opportunities

Yet as cultural heritage attractions are unique and fragile by nature, it is fundamental that tourism authorities study how to best develop these cultural heritage sites while protecting and preserving them for the long-term. With more than 1,000 natural and cultural sites already inscribed on the World Heritage List, the current challenge for the different international organizations is to ensure that their values are safeguarded amidst a rapidly changing and globalized world.

In this respect, the Conference Tourism at World Heritage Sites: Challenges and Opportunities was held in Çeşme (Izmir), Turkey in March 2013, in conjunction with the 55th Meeting of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Commission for Europe. The conference showcased the diverse cultural, natural and historical heritage of the European region, as well as presented various case studies on successful policies for sustainable site management and best practices for cultural tourism development.

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11 Best World Heritage Sites in the World

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World Heritage Sites are almost always on my travel itineraries. From major tourist attractions , such as the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, to lesser known sites such as the Crusader Castles in Jordan, we always have fun visiting World Heritage Sites around the world. But what are world Heritage Sites and why do they make such a great part of a travel itinerary?

In this article I will tell you all about UNESCO World Heritage sites including what they are and how an attraction or a area becomes a World Heritage Site. I will also give you examples of some of the best World Heritage Sites in the world.

What are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Some unesco success stories include:, how does a place become a world heritage site, the taj mahal, vatican city, yellowstone national park, acropolis of athens, machu picchu, stećci medieval tombstone graveyards, head-smashed-in buffalo jump, painted churches in the troodos region, wadi el hitan, malbork castle, the best world heritage sites in the world.

World Heritage Sites are designated by UNESCO. They are locations around the world that represent the cultural and natural heritage of a place. These sites are often high on the list of places that tourists want to visit – beautiful cities, famous monuments and more.

UNESCO World Heritage Site locations can be found across the globe. From forests to churches to entire city centres. There are over 1000 UNESCO World Heritage sites around the globe.

Who are UNESCO?

UNESCO is the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation . Part of the UN, they are dedicated to promoting world peace through a mutual understanding and cooperation when it comes to education, culture and the sciences. UNESCO has 193 member states. The organisation was founded in 1945; their constitution states that “since wars begin in the minds of men and women, it is in the minds of men and women that the defences of peace must be constructed.” 

UNESCO focus on peace through education. The point of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites is to promote the cultural heritage of all cultures; to strengthen bonds between nations, and to offer platforms for ongoing development and cooperation amongst countries. UNESCO was born into a post-WW2 world, one entirely marred by racism and specifically anti-Semitism. This is what makes their goals so poignant, and so important around the globe.

• Preserving 1073 World Heritage Sites in 167 countries
• Youth networks across 9 Mediterranean countries
• Leading the reconstruction of the Mausoleums in Timbuktu
• Coordinating early Tsunami warnings across the globe
• Launching the SESAME world-class research lab in the Middle East

…and many more!

There is a selection criteria of 10 points. Sites must be of ‘outstanding universal value’, and meet at least one point on this list:

• represent a masterpiece of human creative genius
• exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design
• bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared
• be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history
• to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change
• be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
• contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance
• be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth’s history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features;
• be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water , coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals
• contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.

What are some of the most well-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

You can view the full list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites on their website. There are over 1073 of them – many you will have heard of already. You can see some well-known World Heritage Sites below!

Located in India , this mausoleum is one of the most well-known buildings in the world. A tourist hotspot, you will definitely know someone who has visited the Taj Mahal. It is recommended to visit this beautiful ivory-white marble building at sunrise , when the sky lights itself up in breathtaking pinks and oranges. This really is a sight to behold!

No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the Vatican – the heart of the Catholic Church. It isn’t without its controversies, but Vatican City is home to the Pope (and one of the only places to have an audience with him) so it’s no wonder that millions visit the Vatican every year.

Located in the UK, Stonehenge is a curiosity for many. It is a famous prehistoric monument, and there are many conspiracies surrounding these giant standing stones. It is a remarkable place to visit, and one of the more well-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The US has many national parks, and Yellowstone is one of the most famous and most beautiful. Covering nearly 3,5000 sq. miles, this wilderness area lies on top of a volcanic hotspot. The flora and fauna here are very special, with hundreds of different species of animals roaming around including antelope, bears and more. Hiking, rafting, paddling, birdspotting, biking… however you choose to explore Yellowstone National Park , you’ll come to realise why it was a designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is the highest point of the Greek capital, meaning the views are amazing. But the history here is incredible too; this ancient citadel is full of ancient buildings, giving an insight into ancient Greece. The Acropolis is a huge draw for people who choose to visit Athens, and it is one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This 15th-century Inca citadel, located in Peru , is amazing. High in the Andes Mountains, it is an iconic tourist hotspot that is widely associated with this part of the world. And for good reasons – it is stunning, and so is the surrounding area. The architecture itself is sophisticated for the time period, and the buildings have interesting astronomical alignments which mean they have long been a point of intrigue for many. A v isit to Machu Picchu is a must-visit on any trip to Peru!

What are some lesser-known World Heritage Sites?

UNESCO has over 1000 World Heritage Sites, as mentioned above. There are bound to be some on the list that you haven’t heard of before, unless you’re an expert on the subject. Here are some lesser-known (but still worth visiting) UNESCO World Heritage Sites…

This is the collective name for various graveyards – they are what UNESCO refer to as a ‘serial property’. These sites are dotted across Bosnia and Herzegovina, western Serbia, western Montenegro and central and southern Croatia . They are cemeteries with regionally distinctive medieval tombstones, known as stećci. 

This one should definitely be more well-known with a name like that! This is a buffalo jump (a cliff formation used by Native Americans to hunt buffalo and bison) at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The name comes from a legend in which a young Blackfoot warrior wanted to watch the buffalo plunge off the cliff. However, he was actually buried underneath the falling buffalo and was found with his head smashed in. You can visit the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump from Alberta, Canada.

Located in the mountains in central Cyprus, this impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of ten Byzantine churches and monasteries which have been beautifully decorated. They are covered in stunning murals which provide a testimony to the variation in artistic influence on Cyprus over the years. Not to mention, they are just breathtaking to look at.

When you think of Egypt , you probably think of mummies and pyramids, huge statues and deep tombs. You’re right, of course, but there is another side to Egypt and one of the best lesser-known World Heritage Sites is here: Wadi El Hitan. This is otherwise known as Valley of the Whales. It is a paleontological site, around 150 km away from Cairo. This is a beautiful site where you can see a huge number of well-preserved whale fossils. There is nowhere else where you can see this amount of (and this good quality) fossils in such a beautiful place, hence why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is definitely something a bit different to do while visiting Egypt !

Located in beautiful Poland , Malbork Castle is another often-overlooked UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the most complete example of a Gothic castle, and also one of the most extravagant. On top of this, it is also the largest castle in the world by land area! The castle was originally constructed by Teutonic Knights. It is absolutely beautiful to look at especially on a sunny day as it is reflected in the surrounding water. It isn’t far from the tri-city area in northern Poland , which consists of Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia. This is a popular European cruise port, so a visit to Malbork Castle makes for a great day trip!

If you have enjoyed this article on the best World Heritage Sites in the World you may also be interested in:

• What is a UNESCO Geopark? Understanding tourism
• 10 must-see Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK
• Cultural tourism explained: What, why and where
• Volunteer tourism: Everything you need to know

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Russia's Wonders: Top UNESCO Sights

You are here.

Russia alone is home to a total of 28 UNESCO World Heritage Sites! Luckily, most of them are located in the eastern part of Russia (the most visited one by foreign travelers) and may be perfect additions to any Russia itinerary . Let's take a closer look at some of them.

Moscow's UNESCO Treasures

The first unmissable destination in the capital city is its beating heart - Moscow Kremlin & Red Square . This iconic square with the colorful-domed St. Basil's Cathedral and the red-wall and towers of the Kremlin is one of the oldest parts of Moscow, noted by UNESCO.

The Square dates back to the late 1200s and has numerous historical attractions such as the Lobnoye Mesto and the Mint building.

Another point to add-on to your Moscow itinerary is Kolomenskoye. This Russia UNESCO Heritage ensemble is a former royal estate which is located near the Moscow city center. It is a striking example of authentic Russian architecture, especially the Church of Ascension, built in the 1530s.

Last but not least, when in Moscow, save some time for exploring the historical cloister - Novodevichy Convent . Translated as New Maiden, this 16th-17th-century complex is among the most spiritual and gorgeous places in the city. Note, though, that if you'd like to go there any time soon, it is currently under restoration.

Saint Petersburg City-Center

Did you know that the historic part of Russia's northern capital is actually entirely noted by UNESCO? It's true! In terms of art and style, St. Petersburg is considered to be one of the most wholesome city “compositions” in the world as most of it was built at practically the same time by the world's most talented specialists.

Numerous architectural complexes, squares, canals, bridges, parks, and gardens will surely surprise you with their beauty. The must-see buildings include the famous home of the Hermitage Museum , the Winter Palace located on Palace Square.

Moreover, several splendid Tsarist residences outside St. Petersburg made the Russia UNESCO list as well.

These are, of course, the Peterhof Palace and Parks complex as well as Catherine's Palace in Pushkin, formerly called Tsarskoye Selo, among others.

Did You Know? The historic part of St. Petersburg is actually entirely noted by UNESCO.

Golden Ring Gems

Those interested in history should definitely save a couple of days for exploring the "Golden Ring" circuit. As such, the town of Suzdal has well-preserved buildings and is one of the oldest Russian towns. The Suzdal Kremlin as well as numerous churches dating back to the 13th century.

The nearby Vladimir was founded more than 1 thousand years old and was once the capital city of ancient Rus. Its 12th-century certainly cathedrals deserve your time.

Another place on the Golden Ring map is Sergiev Posad , famous for its Trinity Sergius Lavra, made up of several medieval structures. The so-called "Russian Vatican" is a spiritual place located in the surroundings of the gorgeous Russian countryside. Lastly, the historic center of Yaroslavl also boasts Russia UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The town stands on the shores of the Volga and has many untouched authentic buildings.

Kazan Region's Wonders

The third capital of Russia is not like any other Russian town. The multiethnic city has for centuries been known for its religious tolerance, a great example of which is the Kazan Kremlin. On the territory of this Russia UNESCO sight stand side by side the Kul Sharif Mosque and the Annunciation Cathedral, both of which are important city landmarks.

The highlights don't stop at that as you can also spend a day visiting Bolgar which is not very far from Kazan. This attraction of Tatarstan holds the remnants of the historic settlement of Volga Bulgaria and now offers a complex with museums and ancient structures.

Finally, the spiritual mecca, Sviyazhsk, makes for a great day trip from Kazan. Standing on a separate island, the monastery and Assumption Cathedral were both built around the 1550s on the order of Ivan the Terrible who seized Kazan.

Kizhi Pogost & Karelia

For a touch of something truly Russian and unique, plan a visit to the marvelous part of Russia - Kizhi Island .

The destination is well worth a visit as here you can see the only one of its kind in the world wooden Transfiguration Church with a total of 22 adorned domes and built without any nails.

Moreover, the open-air complex itself brings together examples of authentic wooden architecture and displays what a traditional village looks like.

Apart from that, you can also spend time in the nearby Ruskeala Mountain Park and admire the UNESCO-listed gorgeous Karelia nature. The territory of the region borders Finland and is noted for its wonderful lakes, marble canyon, and mountainous park.

The Transfiguration Church is with a total of 22 adorned domes and built without any nails.

Lake Baikal

Without a doubt, the deepest freshwater lake on our planet, the Baikal , is a must-see natural UNESCO wonder.

Situated not far from Irkutsk, Lake Baikal is protected by the government and is an often visited place by globetrotters.

Other natural beauties on the UNESCO Russia map include the Kamchatka volcanoes, located in Russia's the Far East. This less-discover region has remarkable wild nature and is especially popular among hikers and mountain-climbing enthusiasts.

What is more, the Curonian Spit, set in the Baltics Region, is something out of the ordinary too. You can visit this drifting sandy dune when visiting the city of Kaliningrad.

With the plethora of places to discover and the rich list of Russia UNESCO sites, a journey to this country is surely worth it! Ready to start planning your trip? Don't hesitate to contact our experienced travel experts and plan your worry-free Russia vacation to remember.

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Things To Do World Heritage Sites Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Site portfolio covers both cultural and natural sites of exceptional value

Japan's captivating sites include castles, national parks and historic villages.

These sites range from Shiretoko National Park in the north island of Hokkaido, the centrally located temple complexes of Kyoto, Nara and Nikko, and the vibrantly colored castles of Okinawa—the country's southernmost collection of islands.

The theme of nature is predominant throughout these sites. Visit the Ogasawara Islands with their unique ecosystems; the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine set deep into the mountains, or the sacred sites and pilgrimage routes that snake through the Kii Mountain Range in western Japan.

If you are looking for somewhere slightly more accessible—yet no less captivating—take a trip to the floating shrine of Itsukushima in Hiroshima Prefecture, the original castle of Himeji-jo in Hyogo Prefecture, or the steep thatched roofs of the Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama. The skeletal structure of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial stands as a symbol of peace as well as a stark reminder of an act of atrocity, and towering above them all is the most iconic site that has been a source of inspiration for centuries—Mt. Fuji.

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Overtourism at UNESCO World Heritage Sites

by Laura Carroll » 8 November 2017 at 11:02 pm

World Heritage Sites, as designated by the United Nations Scientific, Educational, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), are places of outstanding universal value . Each one represents an incredible culture and its history or living tradition, a work of architectural or artistic marvel, or a place of exceptional natural beauty or ecological importance. By design, UNESCO World Heritage Sites are among the most important places on earth. It is no surprise, therefore, that locals and world travelers alike flock to these places that are so important to the shared heritage of everyone in the world.

In many ways, the global interest in World Heritage Sites is a good thing. Visits to these sites can teach people about the history of human culture, and can inspire lasting interest in an array of disciplines in the arts, humanities and sciences. International travel can build peace and understanding between people of different countries and cultures, and visits to World Heritage Sites in particular can give people greater intercultural understanding on the basis of shared global heritage. International visitors to World Heritage Sites can also boost the local economy, providing jobs in the tourism sector and beyond.  

Too Much of a Good Thing?

Though many benefits can come from tourism to World Heritage Sites, it is not without its downsides. In many areas, particularly in the developing world, iconic sites lack the infrastructure to support the number of tourists who visit in a given day or season. When the site’s visitor carrying capacity is exceeded, negative consequences can arise. Environmental degradation, damage to monuments or works of art, disruption of ecosystems, displacement of local people, and disruption of their access to their own historic or spiritual resources and traditions—all of these are potentially negative consequences that can arise as a result of too many visitors. In short, the symptoms of overtourism are sufficient to threaten the very existence and integrity of the sites being visited—the sites that have been established as being essential to the global patrimony of all the people of the world.

One example of a site experiencing the ill effects of overtourism is Machu Picchu , the iconic “Lost City of the Incas” in Peru. Though UNESCO’s recommended carrying capacity for the site is no more than 2,500 visitors per day, during the popular summer months daily visitation is regularly twice this number. With so many visitors, the site is rapidly losing its integrity, with some poorly-behaved travelers climbing the monuments, taking stones from ancient stone walls, and otherwise disrespecting the site. Overtourism also reduces the quality of visitor experience to the site—a Google search for “Machu Picchu overrated” brought up 643,000 results.

In Venice , 30 million visitors per year swamp the city, whose local population has dwindled to around 55,000. In a single day, one cruise ship can bring crowds nearly as large as the population of the whole city. The number of tourists brings a host of social and ecological problems. Locals are finding it too expensive and stressful to continue living in the city where their families have lived for generations. The fragile relationship between the city and the lagoon into which it is slowly sinking is becoming ever more tenuous as large ships disrupt the waterways and the building foundations, and as more tourists bring more waste. Things have gotten so bad that many locals marched in protest of the tourism industry earlier this year.  And unsurprisingly, tourists are also feeling the effects of overtourism, with a Google search for “Venice overrated” resulting in 373,000 results.

World Heritage in Danger

UNESCO does maintain a list of sites under threat, called World Heritage in Danger , for sites that are threatened by specific conditions laid out in the Convention. Currently, there are 54 sites on the list. Neither Machu Picchu nor Venice are currently listed, but both sites are under consideration for this list if conditions do not improve rapidly.

On the destination level, many sites are instituting caps on the number of visitors who will be permitted to access the site per day, week, month or season. This reduction in the number of visitors can decrease strain on the local infrastructure, and give fragile monuments or ecosystems more space to breathe. Other sites, such as Machu Picchu in Peru and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, are limiting which areas of the monuments are accessible to visitors and are posting guards to make sure that tourists stay in the designated areas. Machu Picchu is taking the added step of giving visitors specific time slots for their visits, and requiring visitors to be accompanied by licensed tour guides, to ensure that there aren’t too many people present at one time and that visitors are following all regulations.

Other initiatives at the destination level include encouraging travelers to visit other nearby areas or monuments, in addition to or instead of visiting the main World Heritage Site. For example, Peru has begun promoting additional ancient cities and monuments besides Machu Picchu that experience significantly less visitation. Increasing the number of visitors to such sites as Choquequirao and Kuelap takes some of the pressure off Machu Picchu, and also provides travelers with the opportunity to see sites that are less crowded, a little more off the beaten track.

For a place like Venice, which is completely unique in terms of its canals, marble palaces and the incredible Basilica of St. Mark, there are fewer alternative sites for tourism authorities to promote. The current debate on the local governance level is whether to restrict or eliminate cruise tourism to the city, which many residents find particularly disruptive, and whether to charge a fee for visits to the city’s historic center.

What Can You Do as an Ethical Traveler?

If you’re traveling to a World Heritage Site, or another site that’s in danger from overtourism, there are several things that you can do to make your travels more sustainable.  First, travel during the offseason if you’re able to do so—you’ll have less competition with other tourists to see the iconic sites if you travel at less popular times of the year, and you’ll also be visiting the site when it’s typically below its carrying capacity for visitors, rather than above.

If you have a little bit more time during your travels, think about exploring further afield in the region around the World Heritage Site. Doing this will spread out your tourism dollars to the wider community, increasing the benefits of your travel to the local population. It will also give you the opportunity for some off-the-beaten-track adventures that may turn out to be some of the best experiences of your trip!

Finally, follow all of the local regulations for visitors while you’re onsite.  If there are areas that are roped off as being off-limits to visitors, respect those boundaries. Don’t climb on fragile monuments or rock formations, don’t pick up stones as “souvenirs” from ruins, and make sure that any trash you generate (empty water bottles, snack wrappings, etc) goes back to the hotel with you and gets disposed of properly.

Maintaining the integrity of World Heritage Sites is the responsibility of everyone who travels to see them. By spreading the word about ethical tourism practices and the dangers of overtourism, and by modeling appropriate behavior to your fellow travelers, you’re taking important steps in helping to preserve these important sites for generations to come.

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9 Must-Visit Philippines UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Natural Wonders, Historic & Heritage Sites

9. Santa Maria Church (Ilocos Sur)

8. miagao church (iloilo), 7. mount hamiguitan range wildlife sanctuary (davao oriental), 6. paoay church (ilocos norte), 5. san agustin church (intramuros, manila), 4. historic city of vigan (ilocos sur), 3. tubbataha reefs natural park (sulu sea), 2. rice terraces of the philippine cordilleras (ifugao), 1. puerto princesa subterranean river national park (palawan).

Exploring the Philippines' pristine beaches is often at the top of the list when planning a trip to the country. However, beyond our crystal waters and fine powdery sands, our tropical nation is also home to various cultural and natural attractions that are rich in history.

Nine of the best tourist spots in the Philippines have been recognized internationally and are officially included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. They range from important conservations sites such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River or the Subterranean River National Park in Palawan Island, the well-preserved Spanish-era Historic City of Vigan in Ilocos Sur, to the Rice Terraces of the Philippines in the Cordillera region of North Luzon . 

Visiting all of these sites will give you a deeper look into the heritage of the different regions and will take you on a trip across the Philippine islands. In this article, we'll be digging into the historical and natural value of each of these nine sites and where you can find them during your trip to the Philippines:

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Situated in the coastal province of Ilocos Sur, the Santa Maria Church has gained recognition thanks to its impressive architecture. Ilocos Sur is situated in the northwestern region of Luzon Island and is bordered by Ilocos Norte to the north. Among its most noteworthy attractions included in an Ilocos itinerary are Calle Crisologo in Vigan City and the Bantay Church Bell Tower. Check out our list of the best Ilocos Norte Laoag hotels for your trip.

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The Santa Maria Church was initially constructed as a more accessible chapel for its neighboring town to the north, Narvacan, in 1567. According to the local legends, the town's statue of the Virgin Mary kept disappearing from the first chapel and was seen on a guava tree atop a hill. Due to this, the locals decided to build another structure in 1765, which they later officially recognized as the Santa Maria Church.

It is this structure that stands today. A year later, this same church was made an independent ministry of the town instead of serving as a chapel-of-ease for Narvacan in light of many settlers moving to Santa Maria. 

• Check out other top tourist spots in Luzon

Due to the locals' devotion to the Virgin Mary, the parish was also called the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption. The whole structure is surrounded by a defensive wall and features a Baroque style, which placed it on the World UNESCO Heritage Sites list.

The Santa Maria Church was designated as a World UNESCO Heritage Site in 1993 as part of a collection of four Spanish-era churches in the country, officially recognized as the Baroque Churches of the Philippines. Like the three other structures, the Santa Maria Church boasts intricate Spanish motifs that were ultimately finished using local materials instead of those typically used in Spain and neighboring European countries.

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Standing majestically in the Miagao municipality of  Iloilo in the Visayas region is another structure included in the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, the Miagao Church. Iloilo is a coastal province that boasts islands with powdery white sand, a picturesque countryside dotted with cultural attractions, and heritage towns that honor the province's traditions.

• Read our article on the top tourist spots in Visayas

The current structure of Miagao Church stands at the highest point of the town. It was finished in 1797 after ten years of forced labor under Spanish colonizers and was initially used as a fortress against potential invaders. Like the Santa Maria Church, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 for its Baroque design mixed with notes of our local heritage. Its most noteworthy aspect is a relief sculpture of St. Christopher on the facade. In the stonework, the saint carries Jesus Christ on his back while holding onto a palm tree.

A trip here is never complete without heading to popular Iloilo tourist spots such as Islas de Gigantes, Garin Farm, Jaro Cathedral, and more. As for the local cuisine, tourists can feast on buckets of freshly-caught scallops and the province's famous La Paz Batchoy, a noodle soup with beef, chicken stock, and pork cracklings. 

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The Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary is a lush mountain ridge that sits in the province of Davao Oriental. Located along the southeastern portion of Mindanao Island, this province has an abundance of coconut trees and is the country's top producer of coconuts and dried coconut meat. Aside from its rich forests, it is also well known for the Aliwagwag Falls, one of the most scenic waterfalls in the Philippines and features over 130 cascades and multiple rock pools filled with turquoise waters. 

• Read our article on the top tourist spots in Mindanao
• Read our article on travel insurance in the Philippines

With an elevation range of 75 to 1,637 meters above sea level, the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary has become a safe haven for various animals and plants. Among the wildlife that finds solace in the mountain range are eight species that are endemic to the area, such as the Philippine eagle and the Philippine cockatoo.

Despite having an impressive elevation level, the range also features aquatic habitats, ultimately making it a diverse ecosystem. In recognition of the natural value of the sanctuary, it was formally named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. 

See our popular Davao Tours and Activities

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In the province of Ilocos Norte, you can find another of the four Baroque Churches of the Philippines called the Paoay Church. Also known as the San Agustin Church, it is situated about 19 kilometers from Laoag City , the province's capital. Along with the church, Ilocos Norte's fascinating rock formations and majestic sand dunes along its stunning coastline have drawn many tourists as well.

• Explore more of Ilocos Norte's natural wonders. Read our article on the best tourists spots in Pagudpud

Locals began building the Paoay Church in 1694 and finally completed construction in 1710. Its exterior walls were made from bricks and large coral stones. As with its fellow Baroque churches, the Paoay Church is characterized by the flying buttresses flank its sides and its wide base. Next to the church, a detached three-story bell tower was erected.

Throughout Philippine history, it had also served as a watch post from where local forces could keep an eye on invading forces such as the Spaniards in the 1800s and the Japanese armies during World War II. Due to its cultural significance, it was officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. 

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In the heart of Manila City, you can find the classic San Agustin Church towering in front of an open plaza in the walled district of Intramuros . This historical area was a political and military base for Spaniards when they colonized the country in the 1500s. Here, several cultural landmarks are maintained and offer physical spaces where visitors can immerse in the rich past of the Philippines. 

• Read our article on the best historical destinations in the Philippines

The San Agustin Church remains one of the best testaments of Intramuros' heritage as it is considered the oldest stone church in the country. After its completion in 1607, parts of this Baroque structure were damaged by earthquakes and fights during World War II. The church's architecture is characterized mainly by its beautiful tromp l'oeil style ceiling and intricate altars. 

• Check out our list of the best Manila tourist spots

After the death of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the first Spanish Governor-General that ruled the Philippines, he was buried close to the church's high altar. UNESCO named it a World Heritage Site in 1993. 

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A visit to Ilocos Sur is not complete without spending some time in the Historic City of Vigan . Known as the province's capital, this district now houses an array of attractions that honor both its past and present. In particular, the cobblestone street called Calle Crisologo is considered among the best tourist spots in Vigan City as it is lined with ancestral houses that date back to the Spanish era.

During the day, it is a bustling hub filled with stores selling native crafts. When the sun sets, it transforms into a stunning dining strip warmly lit by the street posts. Most restaurants feature alfresco dining areas where you can enjoy a nightcap while admiring the scene. 

• Check out our list of the best hotels in Vigan

Despite the heavy Spanish influence in the city, Vigan also fuses certain practices gained from Chinese traders who eventually settled there. This is best seen in the crafting of clay jars, a practice that locals learned from Chinese migrants. A number of jar factories still operate in the city and follow the traditional method of molding them by hand.

UNESCO later recognized Vigan as the best-preserved example of Spanish colonial towns in Asia and named it a World Heritage Site in 1999. In 2015, Vigan City was also recognized as one of the New7Wonders Cities.

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Off the stunning shores of Palawan Island , you can find the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park , a protected area in the middle of the Sulu Sea. Palawan and its surrounding waters have become a favored destination when diving in the Philippines due to the various aquatic ecosystems that thrive there. The whole island is home to lagoons and Palawan beaches containing thriving marine life just under the surface, such as sea turtles and schools of colorful fish.

The Tubbataha Reef sets itself apart, however, because it is a great example of an atoll or ring-shaped reef. The whole protected area comprises a 100-meter perpendicular wall, lagoons, and two coral islands. 

In addition, this natural sanctuary houses large numbers of sea animals. Its North Islet, in particular, has become nesting grounds for marine turtles and sea birds. Scientists have found around 600 fish species, 360 coral species, 11 shark species, 13 dolphin and whale species, and 100 bird species in the area since they began visiting the reef in the 1980s.

Aside from being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999, the reef was also nominated as part of the New 7 Wonders of Nature in 2008. 

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Nestled in the highlands of the Ifugao province in North Luzon are five rice terraces that not only serve as sources of food but as popular tourist attractions. These landscapes are located in the municipalities Banaue , Mayoyao, Hungudan, and Kiangan, with the Banaue Rice Terraces being the most popular one.

As a landlocked province, Ifugao is characterized by its lush mountain ranges containing river valleys and vibrant forests. Thanks to its location and high altitude, the locals here enjoy a generally cooler atmosphere than the rest of the country, making it a more optimal place to grow crops. Recognizing this, the tribe members eventually created intricate agricultural systems, which are now known as rice terraces in the Philippines. 

These landscapes are estimated to have been around for 2,000 years and have often been revered as testaments to humankind's ability to adapt to the environment around them. The Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 in honor of the natives' beautiful work and their efforts to maintain and cultivate sacred traditions to this day. 

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Topping our list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines is the Puerto Princesa Underground River or Subterranean River National Park. This karst landscape that features an underground river measures over 8.2 kilometers and goes through a limestone cave with beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations that resemble popular statues around the globe.

The cave's ceiling is also home to populations of fruit bats. While the cruise through the river already shows the beauty of the area, one of the river's most notable features is that it opens up directly into the sea. It is also one of the most beautiful caves in the Philippines .

• Read our article on the best hotels and resorts in Puerto Princesa
• See other tourist spots in Puerto Princesa

Aside from Puerto Princesa Underground River tours , travelers will also enjoy exploring the surrounding forests that are home to an array of animals and fauna. Among them are 15 endemic bird species such as the Palawan hornbill, the hill myna, and the white-breasted sea eagle. Meanwhile, the nearby coastal waters have become habitats for sea cows and hawksbill sea turtles.

UNESCO designated the Puerto Princesa Underground River a World Heritage Site in 1999, noting that the site contains a full "mountain-to-sea" ecosystem. Since then, the whole park has become the top Puerto Princesa tourist spot and has drawn many visitors to the island. 

Palawan is also home to other world-renowned beach and island destinations like El Nido , Coron , San Vicente , and Port Barton. 

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Plan Your Trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Philippines

When planning a vacation to the Philippines , consider visiting some, if not all, of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the world-renowned Underground River in Puerto Princesa in Palawan to the majestic rice terraces in the highlands of Luzon, you will have more than a handful of attractions to see.

In between these iconic attractions, you can also take the time to visit other top tourist spots in the Philippines , like the highlands of North Luzon, beaches and islands in Palawan, and the natural wonders in Davao.

Whether you're hoping to spend a few days or a couple of weeks in the country, you can make the most out of your vacation by joining Philippines vacation packages  that will take you on thrilling adventures across stunning provinces. Not only will you be treated to breathtaking sights such as our very own UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but you will also feel the warm hospitality of Filipinos wherever you decided to set up base during your vacation.

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Moscow’s Top 13 – The Main Attractions of the Russian capital

13 Moscow Attractions

One of the most fascinating metropolis, breathtaking city, and a vibrant European capital, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world famous sites and attractions that are worth exploring. However, it would take weeks to really explore all facets of the Russian capital – unfortunately hardly any traveler has that much time, which is why you should concentrate on the absolute Moscow top attractions and highlights. Here is the list of top 13 Moscow attractions you can choose on your next Russian travel journey.

What Times Square means to New York, Pariser Platz with the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin, or Trafalgar Square to London – Red Square means to Moscow. The heart of Russia’s capital it is the central meeting point and the most famous photo opportunity. No place stands for Russia and Moscow more than “krasnaja ploshchad”, as Red Square is called in Russian.

It is arguably one of the Moscow main attractions and most visited. With the gigantic military parade on Victory Day in World War II, which takes place every year on May 9, the pictures of the square go around the world year after year. But for the rest of the year you will mainly meet local and foreign tourists here, who take peaceful pictures and soak up the unique spirit. The square looks spectacular illuminated at night, but you should visit the square at least once in daylight as well.

If you stand in the middle of the huge cobblestone square, in the clockwise direction you can see the Kremlin and the Kremlin Wall with a total of 20 individually designed towers, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Historical Museum built with red bricks, the little Kazan Cathedral, the impressive luxury department store GUM, the imposing St. Basil’s Cathedral and, the bridge over the Moskva River. This unique ensemble offers more sightseeing highlights at one stroke than any other tourist attractions in Moscow or the world.

So it’s no wonder that Red Square is UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the most popular photo opportunities worldwide. When visiting Moscow, there is no reason not to visit to Red Square and a selfie is practically also a must – getting there is easy even for Russia newcomers. Although Red Square does not have its own metro station, it is still child’s play to find the way there – especially since the Square is the absolute geographical center of the city.

There are four metro stations in the vicinity, from which it is only a short walk to Red Square, Okhotny Ryad and Teatralnaya directly at the northwest entrance of the Square at the Historical Museum; further to the west is the Lenin Library station, from which one arrives at the same entrance through the Alexander Garden. As well as the station Revolution-square behind the GUM department store, which leads past to the northeast side of the Square.

The Kremlin

This is the biggest active fortress in Europe offering a week’s worth of attractions. For more than 70 years, the Kremlin was the power center of the Soviet Union, which the US President Ronald Reagan called the Empire of Evil exactly 35 years ago, one of the symbols of the East-West conflict in the Cold War. People in the West feared the «dark» plans that were built behind the thick walls of the Kremlin.

The Kremlin is built in a triangular shape on the natural elevation above the Moscow River, known today as the Kremlin Hill. Today’s metropolis Moscow has expanded in a circle around it and the road around the Kremlin is considered the first of several ring roads in Moscow counting.

Now Kremlin has lost its terrifying image, although it is still the seat of the Russian President and thus one of the most important places in World political events. It is an inviting, historical sight for tourists, and one of the famous Moscow tourist attractions which can be visited for just a few dollars.

The large parts of the 28 hectare site can be visited by tourists – with the exception of the Kremlin towers, the presidential Grand Kremlin Palace and the Senate Palace. The first port of call on the site is the so-called Cathedral Square, which is the geographical center of the Kremlin and at the same time the highest point on the Kremlin Hill and contains the three oldest structures in the complex. The three 15 th -century cathedrals of the Kremlin (the Dormition, Archangel Michael and the Annunciation Cathedrals), which together with the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Cathedral of the Deposition of Mary, make the most famous ensemble of the Kremlin. Also to be visited here are primarily the Armoury and the Patriarch’s palace.

To get to the Kremlin, you have to pass a security gate at one of the two publicly accessible entrances – these are located at the Kutafja and Borovitsky towers. Tickets cost from 700 rubles upwards, the admission to the Armoury, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the Patriarch’s Palace being paid for separately.

More about the Kremlin

Lenin’s Mausoleum

This is the ultimate love it or hate it tourist attractions in Moscow It may be mistaken for a gloomy performance, but Lenin remains an absolute attraction almost a hundred years after Vladimir Lenin death. The founding father of the Soviet Union is not only a fascinating historical figure of world renown for supporters of communism. Despite ongoing discussions about a final burial of the leader of the communist October Revolution in 1918, hundreds of thousands come year after year to the dark marble building on Red Square, right next to the Kremlin wall, to see the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary.

First opened to the public in 1924, the Mausoleum attracts 2.5 million visitors every year, so, visitors have to wait a long time to get into the illustrious building. Also, photos from inside the Mausoleum are prohibited. But a visit is still a must for Moscow visitors, especially since the visit is free. Please note that the Mausoleum is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The queue starts behind the Historical Museum and before you get into the actual mausoleum, you have to pass an airport-like security gate – cameras and cell phones are not allowed into the Mausoleum, but can be safely placed in a cloakroom for a small fee. On the way out of the Mausoleum, after the visit, you pass the graves of the other Soviet heads of state. Including the grave of Josef Stalin, who was briefly kept next to Lenin in the Mausoleum after his death. But in the course of de-Stalinization, the cruel dictator was moved to the less prominent place behind the Mausoleum.

More about the Lenin Mausoleum

The Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

If you visit Moscow in summer, the hustle and bustle in the metropolis of millions can get over your head. The city, best known for its icy winters, can turn into an absolute burning furnace in summer. It sometimes takes over an hour to get to the edge of the metropolis. The perfect retreat, located in the center of Moscow, is therefore the Alexander Garden and one of the Moscow top attractions.

Located directly on the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Garden is just a small, but all the more well-kept park that extends to the nearby Manege Square (Manezhnaya Ploschad). The garden undergoes a lot of changes, with old trees cut down in 2012 and over 200 planted, the authorities also claim that there will be a rosary of 3000 roses. As soon as the first rays of sun warm up the Muscovites, tormented by the long winter, they set off into the countryside. If you are right in the center, you can choose the small park right by the Kremlin.

With a café in hand, which you can get yourself on Manege Square, you can linger here between the carefully tended flower beds. With the Grave of the Unknown Soldier and the regular changing of the guard, there is even a real tourist attraction on top. Entry is free.

The Moscow Metro

In no other metropolis in the world would the subway be declared a sight. Yes, that is truly right as riding this one of the top Moscow tourist attractions is an experience in itself or just a walk through the station is amazing in itself. Whether in New York, Berlin, London or Paris – the big city inhabitants of the world metropolises have a love-hate relationship with their metro. It’s different in Moscow – the residents of the Russian metropolis love their metro and there is a reason for that: in the early days of metro construction, dictator Stalin had built the stations into “palaces for the workers”.

All the splendor of the tsars, which the ordinary Russian never saw, is now open to everyone, regardless of their origin. Indeed, a number of stations on the Moscow Metro, each built shortly before or after the war, are unmatched architectural masterpieces. Mayakovskaya station is often compared to a ballroom for its chandeliers and ornaments. The Teatralnaya stop, located directly below the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, shines with decorations reminiscent of the country’s theater and ballet tradition. Colorful glass windows, almost like in a sacred building, adorn the Novoslobodskaya station.

But the uncalled queen among Moscow’s metro beauties is Komsomolskaya station, named after the youth organization of the Soviet Union. With its huge chandeliers and detailed ceiling decorations, it is the crown jewel among the 331 metro stations. It is not uncommon for tourists to stand in the middle of the platform and take photos under the glances of passengers who just want to walk past the annoying tourists to and from work as quickly as possible.

A ride on the metro currently costs 57 rubles, which is less than one dollar. You should plan a few hours for a tour of the most beautiful stations, but the good news is, once behind the turnstile, a single ticket is enough to stay in the metro system as long as you want.

The Bolshoi Theater

To see Tchaikovsky Swan Lake or the Nutcracker by the same legendary Russian composer on the famous Bolshoi stage – that is the dream of every ballet fan. Home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, nowhere else is the fine art of musical dance lived as much as in Russia – and has been since the times of the tsars.

The Bolshoi itself has been shining back to its former glory since it was built in 1776 since its extensive renovation that cost almost a billion dollars a few years ago. The large historical hall of the building impresses with its opulent golden decorations and creates a very special atmosphere – this was also used by the communist leaders of the Soviet Union, who held their congresses in the building directly at the Kremlin. The Theater is so famous that it currently adorns the 100 ruble banknote and is among the Moscow main attractions.

If you’d like to go to what is probably the most famous ballet theater in the world today, it’s easier than ever. The program can be found months in advance on the official website bolshoi.ru  and can be ordered at very reasonable prices. The cheapest seats in the hall can be booked for as little as 100 rubles, i.e. less than $ 2. However, you should reserve tickets early, as the performances are usually booked weeks in advance. Even for good seats, you pay very moderate prices compared to Western Europe.

There are a few things to watch out for, however, proper, appropriate clothing is welcome, but apart from the obligation to wear trousers, it is not an exclusion criterion for men. If you arrive late, you have to wait outside until the next break so as not to disturb the other guests during the performance. The best way to get to the Bolshoi is by taking the Moscow Metro via the Teatralnaya station, which was built especially for the theater and which stairs are right in front of the main entrance.

More about the Bolshoi Theater

The GUM department store

The Russian abbreviation GUM means main all-purpose shopping center and sounds quite formal for such a shopping temple. Located in front of the Kremlin on Red Square, GUM has existed as a department store since 1920 and was previously a market. It is the most iconic and largest department store in Russia and among the Moscow tourist attractions .   The facade of the building, built in 1890, fits perfectly into the overall picture of Red Square and is illuminated photogenically at night.

In contrast to the scarcity economy of the Soviet era, the GUM today really has everything to offer that one can imagine. It has become the flagship of the shopping and fashion metropolis Moscow. But today you will mainly find smaller luxury shops here. From western high-couture boutiques such as Prada or Gucci to fur for the icy Russian winter, a well-to-do Muscovite or a tourist will find everything their heart desires here.

People can walk through the wide and beautifully decorated arcades of the GUM, free of charge. Cafes invite you to linger. A delicatessen shop on the ground floor sells Russian specialties at affordable prices. Chocolate, honey and caviar, as well as the all-round vodka in Russia, can be bought here as souvenirs for friends and family at home. In addition, the Soviet-style cafeteria on the upper floor is very cheap for lunch.

The GUM offers a special highlight every winter when the department store administration built an ice rink in front of the building directly on Red Square. For only 200 to 300 rubles per hour, depending on the time of day, you can lace up your skates and glide over the ice with the unique panorama of Red Square.

More about the GUM department store 

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum is a museum of Russian history wedged between Red Square, Lenin Mausoleum, small Kazan Cathedral, and Manege Square. The red brick building of the Museum is a real eye-catcher and Moscow top attractions located on the opposite side of St. Basil’s Cathedral. It is dedicated to Russian history and is built in the Old Russian style, the building did not open until 1883.

The Museum houses everything from an exhibition on the archeology of Russia, through the technological achievements, to the art of the gigantic empire in 16 sections and has a total of 5 million exhibits. So if you are interested in the history of Russia, you cannot avoid visiting this Museum and should plan enough time for it.

A visit costs 150 to 500 rubles, depending on which exhibition you want to visit. The Museum is open in winter, autumn and spring from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. In the summer months, the extended Saturday times apply daily.

It is probably the most famous park in the Russian capital and the top Moscow tourist attractions – a novel and its film adaptation and a Russian rock band have its name and numerous songs by Russian and international bands and TV series, such as House of Cards, mention it or act here. Gorky Park is a premier green space offering entertainment for every taste. Located southwest of the center of Moscow on the Moskva River, it is designed more for family attractions and rest and the classic park on the other side – has become one of the meeting places for Muscovites of all kinds in recent years.

Whether for a yoga class, a family picnic or beach volleyball match, skateboarding, and cycling – people meet here often. Because even in the Gorky there is an ice surface in winter, the largest in Moscow, which attracts many Moscow residents as well as tourists.

A large-scale renovation in 2011 breathed new life into the park – the roller kiosks were removed and more emphasis was placed on the maintenance of the green spaces. The park remained free of charge and developed into one of the most popular places in the capital. Whether with the rental bike through the green lungs, the pedal boat across the numerous ponds or simply watching the goings-on on the park bench – a visit to Gorki is also absolutely worthwhile for tourists.

Day trip to the Golden Ring

As much as the metropolis Moscow is fascinating, the side effects of a cosmopolitan city like Moscow – the noise, the traffic and the crowds – can overwhelm any tourist. What could be better than a day trip to escape the organized chaos of the cosmopolitan city?

The places on the Golden Ring near Moscow are an ideal destination for this and among the Moscow main attractions – located north-east of the metropolis, these old Russian cities, some of which have existed for much longer than Moscow itself, offer a welcome change from the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital.

Developed in the late 1960s uniting several mediaeval Russian cities located to the north-east of Moscow it is the most popular route around provincial cities of central Russia. More than a thousand year old city of Yaroslavl on the Volga is the largest, but at 260 km from Moscow also the most distant city of the Golden Ring. For only 650 rubles, however, you can take the three-hour train ride there.

Yaroslavl has been part of the world cultural heritage since 2005 and is best known for its two monasteries – the Monastery of our Savior and Transfiguration and the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Tolga are located directly on the Europe’s longest river Volga and its inflow Kotorosl. Both testify to the long history of the Russian Orthodox Church. The cityscape of Yaroslavl is also really worth seeing with its classicist buildings – walking through the streets of the city with 500,000 inhabitants is a welcome contrast to Moscow. Things are even more slow in the small towns of Suzdal and Vladimir, both of which can still be reached with the Moscow suburban train network (known as Elektrichka) for a good 500 rubles. In both cities time seems to have stood a little – large sacred buildings dominate the cityscape.

Especially the Assumption Cathedral, located in the center of Vladimir, and the Golden Medieval Gate are the main attractions for tourists. The church, built in the early 12th century, is best known for its almost 700 year old wall paintings and frescoes and is a World Heritage Site. The Suzdal Kremlin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and was first mentioned in writing in 1024.

Suzdal with its only 10,000 inhabitants has still retained the character of a small Russian town and in the town, which will celebrate its millennium in 2024, you can still find numerous wooden buildings typical of rural Russia – whether churches or houses, the colorful buildings are ideal as Photo motif and give an impression of the simple Russian provinces life away from the metropolises.

The exhibition of the achievements of the national economies is not in every travel guide as a classic Moscow main attractions and a must see of the Russian capital. But no other place in the modern mega-metropolis exudes the spirit of the Soviet Union as much as the enormous VDNKh (All Russian Exhibition Centre) in the north of Moscow. It was built as an agricultural exhibition before World War II, but was then renamed world exhibition for the 15 individual Soviet states and their achievements.

From the Armenian, Estonian and Kyrgyz culture, to the Soviet achievements in space travel and nuclear power, to statues about the heroes of the Soviet history, the VNDKh (Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyastva) was an absolute attraction until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. After that, the old charm fell into disrepair and the large central pavilion, which was built in the splendidly pompous Stalinist style, was filled with small traders selling souvenirs and matryoshkas.

Since its renovation in 2014, the exhibition in the park-like area is absolutely worth a trip again and with the metro station of the same name you can get from the center to the VDNKh quickly and without problems. There are still strange souvenirs, plus huge Soviet monuments worth seeing, as well as numerous rides for children. The Kosmos exhibition still exists and is now part of the Cosmonaut Museum, which is located at the front end of the park when coming from the metro station.

Here you can experience the various achievements of Soviet and Russian space travel vividly. From the very first Sputnik satellite, the spacesuit of Yuri Gargarin, the very first human in space, to the Buran space shuttle, you can learn an incredible amount about the conquest of the cosmos here. However, you should plan several hours just for a visit to the Cosmonaut Museum.

More about the cosmonaut museum

The Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery

To complete the cultural program in Moscow, you should definitely make a tour to the Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery when visiting the Russian capital. It is the largest museum of European art and among the Moscow top attractions. The former Museum of Fine Arts was named after Alexander Pushkin’s death in 1837 – it is still one of the most important art collections in the world today.

It boasts one of the richest collections of foreign art in Russia, showcasing global artistic developments from early times to the present day in expositions numbering 700,000 works of art.  Not far south of the Kremlin, exactly opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Museum is housed in a classic building specially built for this purpose in 1898. From early Byzantine art to the famous Madonna by Lukas Cranach, the Italian masters, Peter Paul Rubens and masterpieces of Expressionism, for example by Paul Cézanne, you can admire a huge selection of important art here.

The regular entry ticket costs 800 rubles and the Ьuseum is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during the week until 8 p.m. – only Monday is closed.

The second important art collection in the capital is the State Tretyakov Gallery. It is the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world. Started by the textile entrepreneur and philanthropist Pavel Tretyakov as a collection of local contemporary art in 1851, the gallery has now developed into one of the cultural highlights of Russia. In contrast to the Pushkin Museum, you will primarily find Russian art from the 19th century and older icons.

Entry cost is 400 rubles and the Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Monday is also the day off.

Take a stroll across Red Square, meet Lenin and see the world-famous Kremlin?

Then first of all you need a visa! !

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The Museum of Cosmonautics and the Planetarium in Moscow

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• Battling mass tourism, Venice introduces day tickets

Visitors entering the UNESCO World Heritage site for the day will have to buy a five-euro (USD 5.3) ticket, with inspectors carrying out spot checks at key entry points. Considered one of the most beautiful cities on the planet, Venice is one of the world's top tourist destinations -- but is drowning under the weight of the crowds.

• Updated On Apr 25, 2024 at 07:07 PM IST

We're full! Europe's fight against overtourism

European tourist hotspots like Amsterdam and Venice, which introduces new measures on Thursday, are on a crusade to deal with surging visitor numbers. On Thursday, it will start charging day trippers for entry. Day visitors will have to buy a five-euro (USD 5.3) ticket, monitored by inspectors carrying out spot checks at key points across the UNESCO world heritage site.

• Published On Apr 25, 2024 at 07:07 PM IST

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Venice Introduces Day Tickets To Battle Mass Tourism

Visitors entering the unesco world heritage site for the day will have to buy a five-euro ($5.3) ticket..

Venice is one of the world's top tourist destinations

The ticket office is in place and the inspectors are primed -- Venice launches a new scheme Thursday to charge day-trippers looking to enter the historic Italian city, a world first intended to ease the pressure of mass tourism. Visitors entering the UNESCO World Heritage site for the day will have to buy a five-euro ($5.3) ticket, with inspectors carrying out spot checks at key entry points.

Considered one of the most beautiful cities on the planet, Venice is one of the world's top tourist destinations -- but is drowning under the weight of the crowds.

Under the trial system, so-called Access Fee tickets will be required only on 29 busy days throughout 2024, mostly weekends from May to July, to persuade day-trippers to visit during quieter times.

"The aim is to find a new balance between tourism and the city of its residents," Simone Venturini, the local councillor responsible for tourism, told AFP.

"We must work to reduce the impact of daily tourism on certain days... (which) generates stress for the city,", he said.

The scheme is being closely watched as destinations around the world grapple with huge numbers of tourists, who boost the local economy but risk overwhelming local communities and damaging fragile ecosystems and historical sites.

UNESCO warning 

Venice, spread over more than 100 small islands and islets in northeastern Italy, was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1987.

But the numbers of people seeking to experience what the UN cultural body calls an "extraordinary architectural masterpiece" are widely considered to be unsustainable.

At peak times, 100,000 visitors stay overnight in the historic centre of Venice, double the resident population of just 50,000.

Tens of thousands more pour into the city's narrow streets for the day, often from cruise ships, to see sights including St Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge.

UNESCO threatened last year to put Venice on its list of heritage in danger, citing mass tourism as well as rising water levels in its lagoon attributed to climate change.

Venice escaped the ignominy only after local authorities agreed the new ticketing system.

The idea had long been debated but repeatedly postponed over concerns it would seriously dent tourist revenue and compromise freedom of movement.

Ashish Thakkar, an American tourist visiting on Wednesday with his wife, questioned how much of an effect the day pass would have.

"If I'm coming all the way from out of the country, five euros just to get access to the city -- I wouldn't mind paying it," he told AFP.

"I don't think it's going to make a big difference."

Venturini hopes the initiative will persuade Italians living in the region not to come on busy days such as Thursday, when Italy marks its World War II Liberation Day.

Venice had already imposed a ban in 2021 on the massive cruise ships from which thousands of day-trippers emerge daily, rerouting them to a more distant industrial port.

Luigi Brugnaro, the mayor of Venice, acknowledged that the tickets were "an experiment", and officials are not entirely sure how the system is going to pan out.

Earlier this month, Brugnaro told reporters the new system would be monitored with "very soft controls" and "without queues".

Visitors are being encouraged to buy their tickets online beforehand but will be able to buy one on arrival.

A new ticket office has been set up on the square in front of the Santa Lucia train station, the main point of entry into the city.

Controllers will carry out spot checks in key areas, with fines ranging from 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320).

Tourists staying in Venice, who already pay an overnight tax for the privilege, are exempt from the new tickets, as are those arriving between 4:00 pm and 8:30 am, minors under 14 and the disabled.

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For the time being, there is no ceiling on the number of day tickets -- downloaded in the form of a QR code from a website (https://cda.ve.it/en/).

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

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Unesco social media, kremlin and red square, moscow.

• Description

Inextricably linked to all the most important historical and political events in Russia since the 13th century, the Kremlin (built between the 14th and 17th centuries by outstanding Russian and foreign architects) was the residence of the Great Prince and also a religious centre. At the foot of its ramparts, on Red Square, St Basil's Basilica is one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox monuments.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Le Kremlin et la place Rouge, Moscou

Indissolublement lié à tous les événements historiques et politiques les plus importants survenus en Russie depuis le XIII e siècle, le Kremlin a été construit entre le XIV e et le XVII e siècle par des architectes russes et étrangers exceptionnels. C'était la résidence du grand-prince ainsi qu'un centre religieux. Au pied de ses remparts, sur la place Rouge, s'élève la basilique Basile-le-Bienheureux, l'un des plus beaux monuments de l'art orthodoxe.

الكرملين والساحة الحمراء، موسكو

يرتبط الكرملين ارتباطاً وثيقاً بجميع الأحداث التاريخيّة والسياسيّة المهمّة التي توالت على روسيا منذ القرن الثالث عشر ولقد جرى تشييده بين القرنين الرابع والسابع عشر على يد مهندسين روس وأجانب استثنائيين. وكان الكرملين مقرّ الأمير الكبير كما كان مركزاً دينيّاً. عند أسفل أسواره في الساحة الحمراء شيدت بازيليك القديس بازيل وهي من أروع تحف الفنّ الأرثوذكسي.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

莫斯科克里姆林宫和红场

由俄罗斯和外国建筑家于14世纪至17世纪共同修建的克里姆林宫，作为沙皇的住宅和宗教中心，与13世纪以来俄罗斯所有最重要的历史事件和政治事件密不可分。在红场上防御城墙的脚下坐落的圣瓦西里教堂是俄罗斯传统艺术最漂亮的代表作之一。

El kremlin y la Plaza Roja de Moscú

Indisolublemente vinculado a los más trascendentales acontecimientos históricos y políticos de Rusia desde el siglo XIII, el kremlin de Moscú fue construido entre los siglos XIV y XVII por toda una serie de excelentes arquitectos rusos y extranjeros. Además de ser la residencia del Gran Príncipe, fue un importante centro religioso. Al pie de sus murallas, en la Plaza Roja, se alza la basílica de San Basilio el Bienaventurado, uno de los más hermosos monumentos de arte ortodoxo.

モスクワのクレムリンと赤の広場

source: NFUAJ

Kremlin en Rode Plein, Moskou

Het Kremlin is onlosmakelijk verbonden met alle belangrijke historische en politieke gebeurtenissen in Rusland sinds de 13e eeuw. Het werd door de Grote Prins Yuri van Kiev gesticht als residentie en religieus centrum. De bouw vond plaats tussen de 14e en 17e eeuw en het ontwerp was in handen van uitstekende Russische en buitenlandse architecten. Binnen de muren van het Kremlin vindt men een reeks meesterwerken qua architectuur, maar ook beeldende kunst en religieuze monumenten van uitzonderlijke schoonheid. Aan de voet van de stadsmuren, op het Rode Plein, bevindt zich een van de mooiste Russisch-orthodoxe monumenten, de Pokrovkathedraal ook wel Basiliuskathedraal genoemd.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

At the geographic and historic centre of Moscow, the Moscow Kremlin is the oldest part of the city. First mentioned in the Hypatian Chronicle in 1147 as a fortification erected on the left bank of the Moskva river by Yuri Dolgoruki, Prince of Suzdal, the Kremlin developed and grew with settlements and suburbs which were further surrounded by new fortifications - Kitaigorodsky Wall, Bely Gorod, Zemlyanoy Gorod and others. This determined a radial and circular plan of the centre of Moscow typical of many other Old Russian cities.

In 13th century the Kremlin was the official residence of supreme power - the center of temporal and spiritual life of the state. The Kremlin of the late 15th – early 16th century is one of the major fortifications of Europe (the stone walls and towers of present day were erected in 1485–1516). It contains an ensemble of monuments of outstanding quality.

The most significant churches of the Moscow Kremlin are situated on the Cathedral Square; they are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki. Almost all of them were designed by invited Italian architects which is clearly seen in their architectural style. The five-domed Assumption Cathedral (1475–1479) was built by an Italian architect Aristotele Fiorvanti. Its interior is decorated with frescos and a five-tier iconostasis (15th–17th century). The cathedral became the major Russian Orthodox church; a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars and emperors as well as the shrine for metropolitans and patriarchs.

In the same square another Italian architect, Alevisio Novi, erected the five-domed Church of the Archangel in 1505-1508. From the 17th to 19th century, its interior was decorated by wonderful frescos and an iconostasis. In this church many great princes and tsars of Moscow are buried. Among them are Ivan I Kalita, Dmitri Donskoi, Ivan III, Ivan IV the Terrible, Mikhail Fedorovich and Alexei Mikhailovich Romanovs.

The Cathedral of the Dormition was built by Pskov architects in 1484–1489. Inside the cathedral some mural paintings of 16th–19th century have been preserved and the icons of Andrei Rublev and Theophanes the Greek are part of the iconostasis.

In 1505-1508 the bell tower of Ivan Veliki was built. Being 82 metres high it was the highest building in Russia which became the focal point of the Kremlin ensemble.

Among the oldest civil buildings of the Moscow Kremlin, the Palace of the Facets (1487–1491) is the most remarkable. Italian architects Marco Fryazin and Pietro Antonio Solario built it as a great hall for holding state ceremonies, celebrations and for receiving foreign ambassadors. The most noteworthy civil construction of the 17th century built by Russian masters is the Teremnoi Palace.

From the early 18th century, when the capital of Russia moved to St. Petersburg, the Kremlin mainly played a ceremonial role with religious functions. By the end of the century the architectural complex of the Kremlin expanded with the Arsenal reconstructed after the Fire of 1797 by Matvei Kazakov. The Senate was built in 1776–1787 according to the plans of the same architect as the home of the highest agency of State power of the Russian Empire - the Ruling Senate. Today it is the residence of the President of Russia.

From 1839 to 1849 a Russian architect K.A. Thon erected the Great Kremlin Palace as a residence of the imperial family which combined ancient Kremlin buildings such as the Palace of the Facets, the Tsarina’s Golden Chamber, Master Chambers, the Teremnoi Palace and the Teremnoi churches. In the Armory Chamber built by K.A. Thon within the complex of the Great Kremlin Palace, there is a 16th century museum officially established by the order of Alexander I in 1806.

Red Square, closely associated with the Kremlin, lies beneath its east wall. At its south end is the famous Pokrovski Cathedral (Cathedral of St Basil the Blessed), one of the most beautiful monuments of Old Russian church architecture, erected in 1555–1560 to commemorate the victory of Ivan the Terrible over the Kazan Khanate. In the 17th century the cathedral gained its up-to-date appearance thanks to the decorative finishing of the domes and painting both inside and outside the cathedral. The construction of Red Square was finished by the late 19th century together with the erection of the Imperial Historic Museum (today the State Historical Museum), the Upper Trading Rows (GUM) and the Middle Trading Rows. In 1929, , Lenin’s Mausoleum, designed by A.V. Shchusev and an outstanding example of the Soviet monumental architecture, was finished.

Criterion (i) : The Kremlin contains within its walls a unique series of masterpieces of architecture and the plastic arts. There are religious monuments of exceptional beauty such as the Church of the Annunciation, the Cathedral of the Dormition, the Church of the Archangel and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki; there are palaces such as the Great Palace of the Kremlin, which comprises within its walls the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin and the Teremnoi Palace. On Red Square is Saint Basil the Blessed, still a major edifice of Russian Orthodox art.

Criterion (ii) : Throughout its history, Russian architecture has clearly been affected many times by influences emanating from the Kremlin. A particular example was the Italian Renaissance. The influence of the style was clearly felt when Rudolfo Aristotele Fioravanti built the Cathedral of the Dormition (1475-79) and grew stronger with the construction of the Granovitaya Palace (Hall of the Facets, 1487-91) by Marco Fryazin and Pietro Antonio Solario. Italian Renaissance also influenced the towers of the fortified enceinte, built during the same period by Solario, using principles established by Milanese engineers (the Nikolskaya and the Spasskaya Towers both date from 1491). The Renaissance expression was even more present in the classic capitals and shells of the Church of the Archangel, reconstructed from 1505 to 1509 by Alevisio Novi.

Criterion (iv) : With its triangular enceinte pierced by four gates and reinforced with 20 towers, the Moscow Kremlin preserves the memory of the wooden fortifications erected by Yuri Dolgoruki around 1156 on the hill at the confluence of the Moskova and Neglinnaya rivers (the Alexander Garden now covers the latter). By its layout and its history of transformations (in the 14th century Dimitri Donskoi had an enceinte of logs built, then the first stone wall), the Moscow Kremlin is the prototype of a Kremlin - the citadel at the centre of Old Russian towns such as Pskov, Tula, Kazan or Smolensk.

Criterion (vi) : From the 13th century to the founding of St Petersburg, the Moscow Kremlin was directly and tangibly associated with every major event in Russian history. A 200-year period of obscurity ended in 1918 when it became the seat of government again. The Mausoleum of Lenin on Red Square is the Soviet Union’s prime example of symbolic monumental architecture. To proclaim the universal significance of the Russian revolution, the funerary urns of heroes of the revolution were incorporated into the Kremlin’s walls between the Nikolskaya and Spasskaya towers. The site thus combines in an exceptional manner the preserved vestiges of bygone days with present-day signs of one of the greatest events in modern history.

From the date of including the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square on the World Heritage List all the components representing the Outstanding Universal Value of the property are within its boundaries. The territory and the integrity of the World Heritage property have also remained unchanged. Within its boundaries the property still comprises all the elements that it contained at the date of nomination. The biggest threat, however, is unregulated commercial development of the adjacent areas.

Authenticity

The history of the Moscow Kremlin and Red Square is reflected in the archival documents of 12th–19th century, for example in medieval chronicles, cadastral surveys, estimated construction books, painted lists, inventories, foreign notes and in graphic matters such as manuscripts, chronicles, plans, drafts, engravings, lithographs, sketches of foreign travelers, paintings and photographs. These documents are exceptionally valuable information sources. Comparison of the data received from archival documents and those obtained in the process of field study gives the idea of authenticity of  the property and its different elements. This comparison also serves as the basis for project development and for the choice of the appropriate methods of restoration that may preserve the monuments’ authenticity.

On the border of the ensemble a number of monuments destroyed in the 1930s were reconstructed according to measured plans.

Protection and management requirements

The statutory and institutional framework of an effective protection, management and improvement of the World Heritage property “Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow” has been established by laws and regulations of the Russian Federation and the city of Moscow.

According to the decree of the President of RSFSR of 18 December 1991 № 294, the Moscow Kremlin was included among especially protected cultural properties of nations of Russia - the highest conservation status for cultural and historical monuments in Russian legislation.

“Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow” is a Cultural Heritage Site of federal importance. State protection and management of federal sites is provided by Federal Law of 25.06.2002 № 73-FZ “On cultural heritage sites (historical and cultural monuments) of nations of the Russian Federation”. The federal executive body responsible for protection of the cultural property is the Department for Control, Supervision and Licensing in the Cultural Heritage Sphere of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation.It is in charge of all methodological and control functions concerning restoration, usage and support of cultural heritage sites and the territories connected.

The World Heritage property is situated in the urban environment of Moscow. The city policy regarding cultural heritage protection and town-planning regulation is the responsibility of Moscow City Government, represented by the Department of Cultural Heritage, the Department of Urban Development and the Committee for Urban Development and Architecture of Moscow. In 1997 the boundaries of the protective (buffer) zone were approved in order to preserve the property, and to maintain and restore the historical architectural environment as well as the integral visual perception of the property.. There is a need to ensure the creation of an appropriate buffer zone and to develop close liaison between all stakeholders, including the Moscow City authorities, to ensure that constructions around the property do not impact adversely on its Outstanding Universal Value.

The World Heritage property is used by the following organizations: FGBUK (Federal Government Budgetary Institution of Culture), the State Historical and Cultural Museum-preserve “The Moscow Kremlin”, the Administrative Department of the President of the Russian Federation, the Federal Guard Service of the Russian Federation and OJSC “GUM Department Store”.

• Official site of 'The Moscow Kremlin' State Historical and Cultural Museum and Heritage Site
• Moscow Kremlin Museums Telegram Group (in Russian only)
• Moscow Kremlin Museums VKontakte Page (in Russian only)
• Moscow Kremlin Museums Dzen Page (in Russian only)
• State Historical Museum VKontakte Group (in Russian only)
• Msk Guide Page (in Russian only)
• Official site of the State Department Store
• State Historical Museum (in Russian only)

State of Conservation (SOC)