The Controversial Beauty of Russia
During a recent trip to Russia to celebrate my 19th wedding anniversary, I had the pleasure of exploring two of Russia’s most picturesque cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. Despite the political unrest occurring at the time, we discovered that Russia is filled with outstanding architecture and beauty.
While visiting Moscow, one of Russia’s largest and most historic cities, I had the pleasure of exploring several of the most vibrant landmarks, including Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral and The Kremlin. These three iconic and unique architectural gems are located in the heart of the city. I found it fascinating to see the juxtaposition of historic buildings dating back to different political regimes contrasting with modern contemporary structures.
St. Basil’s Cathedral – The official name is “The Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin Moat.” Legend says that Ivan the Terrible had the builders Barma and Postnk Yaolev blinded after completion so they would never build anything more beautiful.
The Metro in Moscow- The metro stations throughout Russia are elegant and beautiful with endless art covering the walls. These stations once doubled as shelters during air raids in World War II. High ceilings, grand chandeliers, art deco and war motifs, as well as socialist themes abound. Each station is a historical must see.
The younger generations of women were beautiful, stylish and looked as if they were fashion models. The shopping scene was as extensive and elegant as any other mayor fashion trendy city such as New York, Milan or Paris. The Historic GUM shopping mall not only featured standard world name brands but made the experience luxurious with its structural beauty. Overall Moscow was elegant, cosmopolitan, easy to get around and a world-class city to visit.
St. Petersburg, known as the Venice of Russia is a port city that sits on the Baltic Sea. It’s the second largest city in Russia and one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Hermitage Museum – The Hermitage Museum is one of the oldest and the largest museum’s in the world. It holds some of the most amazing and moving art pieces. The museum is so large it can take days to visit the millions of exhibits inside.
St. Petersburg is also well known for the Mariinsky Theater that hosts ballet and opera and is the home to some of the greatest performers in the world. Mariinsky Theater opened in 1860 and is considered one of the most distinguished music theaters of the 19th century.
Pushkin's Palace was simply breathtaking.
The Kazan Cathedral, with is long columns, seemed to stretch its gigantic arms to surround you in a warm embrace.
A Tour of the canals at the end of a long day of exploring this grand city’s history was both relaxing and romantic. Russia has something for everyone, whether it be alluring architecture, history, shopping or leisurely views of times gone by.
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Stella Ludwig Interiors is an award-winning boutique design firm specializing in high-end residential design. Located in the historic Rittenhouse Square area, we service discerning professional clients, empty nesters, and busy executives, as well as international families living in the Greater Philadelphia region and beyond. We are known for creating distinctive interiors that exude elegance with style and panache, and feel privileged to work in an ever-changing creative industry that allows us to use our experience and talents to bring joy to those we serve. Stella Ludwig Interiors projects and ideas have been featured in Architectural Digest, Philly Home Magazine, Philadelphia Style, Philadelphia Magazine, Suburban Life magazine, Kravet Design Share and real estate and design industry blogs.