The Kremlin

The Kremlin is a large fortress in the heart of Moscow, Russia. Its red brick walls and tall towers are one of the most famous sights in the country. The Russian president works inside the Kremlin. It is also home to beautiful palaces, churches, and museums.

Inside the Walls

The Kremlin sits on a hill next to the Moscow River. Its walls stretch for about 1.5 miles and have 20 towers. Inside, there are four palaces, four cathedrals, and many other buildings. The Grand Kremlin Palace has 700 rooms and was once home to Russian tsars, or emperors. The walls are up to 21 feet thick in some places.

Treasures of the Kremlin

The Kremlin is home to amazing treasures. The Tsar Bell is the largest bell in the world, weighing about 200 tons. The Tsar Cannon is one of the biggest cannons ever made. The Armoury Chamber museum holds crowns, thrones, and royal carriages. Many of these treasures are hundreds of years old.

Fun Facts

• The word 'kremlin' actually means 'fortress inside a city.' Many Russian cities have their own kremlin.
• The Kremlin's Spasskaya Tower has a giant clock that chimes every hour and can be heard across Red Square.
• The Kremlin has been the center of Russian power for over 500 years.

Did You Know?

The Kremlin was originally built with white limestone walls. They were replaced with the famous red bricks in the late 1400s.