Alexander Gardens

I then visit Alexander Gardens, with fantastic Autumn colours in the trees.

The first public park in Moscow, Alexander Gardens sits along the Kremlin’s western wall. Colourful flower beds and impressive Kremlin views make it a favourite strolling spot for Muscovites and tourists alike. Back in the 17th century, the Neglinnaya River ran through the present gardens, with dams and mills along its banks. In 1821 the river was diverted underground and the gardens were created.

Inside the gardens there is also a memorial and eternal flame at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which contains the remains of one soldier who died in December 1941 at Km41 of Leningradskoe sh – the nearest the Nazis came to Moscow. This is a kind of national pilgrimage spot, where newlyweds bring flowers and have their pictures taken. The inscription reads: ‘Your name is unknown, your deeds immortal.’ Every hour on the hour, the guards perform a perfectly synchronised ceremony to change the guards on duty.Read more