2012, SEPTEMBER 8: RUSSIA, MOSCOW - MANEZHNAYA SQUARE & ALEXANDER GARDEN

We exited the Red Square through the Resurrection Gate. To our right was the Old City Hall.

 

Old City Hall, Moscow

Old City Hall, Moscow

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And to our left was the State History Museum. In front of the Museum is an equestrian statue of Moscow’s founder, Yury Dolgoruky. The statue was erected in 1954, to celebrate Moscow's 800th anniversary. Since there are no pictures of this prince, the statue was made to resemble a typical Russian knight.

State History Museum, Moscow

To the north of these buildings is the vast Manezhnaya Square (also known as Manege Square), which is a large pedestrian-only open space.

Maneznaya Square

 The square was built in 1930’s to accommodate large Communist meetings and demonstrations, after destroying many existing stores, taverns, restaurants, hotels and an old monastery.  

                                                              
                                                                

Maneznaya Square

The square was crowded with many people,...

 

vendors,...

and entertainers.







On the western end of the square are translucent domes of Okhotnyi Ryad, the three-story underground shopping center.

Okhotnyi Ryad, Moscow 

 Okhotnyi Ryad, Moscow

Okhotnyi Ryad, Moscow 

 Okhotnyi Ryad, Moscow

Okhotnyi Ryad, Moscow 

 

A wide elevated walkway dotted with fountains leads to the Moscow Manege.

Between the walkway and the Alexander Garden flows Neglinnaya River, a popular spot for locals as well as tourists. Sculptured statues and fountains make the area an attractive place to while away some time.

Alexander Garden

 Alexander Garden

After enjoying the place, we proceeded to the point nearby where we were supposed to meet with the rest of our tour group for our 2:00 p.m. entry to the Kremlin.