Welcome to Moscow

The capital of Russia. One of the biggest metropolises of the world. 9 million inhabitants. The world centre of cultural and educational tourism. The peculiar heritage of the city is inseparably connected with the history of the whole of Russia. It is the centre of the Russian Orthodox church. There are more than 130 temples in the city. The international cultural centre where hundreds of museums and theatres are located. Two well-known circuses. The well developed travel industry. 45000 hotel rooms. It is the "port of five seas".

It is in Moscow where the routes into the remote areas of Russia begin. Today, Moscow attracts tourists and businessmen from all over the world.

Moscow's history dates back to 1147, when Prince Yuri Dolgoruki established the first small outpost on the banks of the Moscow River. The settlement grew into a large and prosperous town, which eventually became the capital of the principality of Moscovy. By the 15th century Moscow was Russia's political, cultural and trade centre, and during the reign of Ivan the Great it became the capital of Russia as well.

In 1712, after Peter the Great transferred the capital to St. Petersburg, Moscow remained a symbol of national pride and continued to play a major role in the course of Russian history. It was the place where the Russian tsars were traditionally crowned.

Many times Moscow rose from its ruins. In 1812 Napoleon's troops attacked it,and the fire destroyed more than two-thirds of Moscow's buildings.

In 1917 Moscow was the site of revolutionary activities against the imperial government when the monarchy was overthrown. In 1941 during World War II the German Nazi troops were stopped almost under the walls of the city and for many months Moscow was repeatedly attacked from the air, but it was never captured.

Now we are witnesses to Moscow's renaissance. It is becoming an impressive, modern capital city in the European sense, while at the same time preserving its national and unique character and its unforgettable historic appearance. Today Moscow is a modern city with tremendous plans for its future. After 1990, Moscow has become the fastest developing city of Russia.

Moscow is the seat of the Russian government and the location of major banks, enterprises, educational and cultural institutions, representatives of major international banks and companies.

Moscow offers big opportunities for tourism and for business contacts. The city has become a place of holding of international congresses, exhibitions and festivals.