The name means "fortress" in Russian. It's the heart of Moscow. The first fortress was erected there in AD 1147, but today the buildings include everything from spectacular 15th-century churches to the modern Palace of Congresses, an ugly construction from 1961. The Cathedral of the Assumption, the Belltower of Ivan the Great and the Cathedral of the Annunciation are marvels of Russian architecture and art. Consider taking an English-language tour with one of the many freelance guides who wait outside the Kremlin ticket booth. Most are respectable and well-qualified, and they offer tours of the Kremlin, cathedrals and Armory. You can usually negotiate a price of about 500 rubles, not including entrance tickets. The entrance to the Kremlin is on the east side of the complex, via a footbridge over the Alexander Gardens. You can buy entrance tickets to the Kremlin and five Kremlin churches and museums from either of the booths next to the Kutafya tower that guards the drawbridge leading to the Kremlin. The admission booth is open Friday-Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm. The basic admission charge is 350 rubles adults, 175 rubles students. Heavy bags must be checked for an additional fee, and separate tickets must be purchased for the use of cameras. Some of the sights inside the Kremlin require an additional fee. On Red Square, Moscow. Phone 495-202-3776 or 495-202-4256.
