Moscow Metro: The Underground Palaces of the Capital.
The Moscow Metro is a very convenient urban infrastructure and a true underground gallery, with thousands of people passing through this unique architectural complex every day. Construction of the first metro stations began in the 1930s, and many of them are still symbols of the artistic skills of Soviet architects.
Mayakovskaya Station (opened in 1938) is one of the most striking Stalinist Empire-style stations. Its vaulted hall features stainless steel arches, and the mosaic pattern on the ceiling depicts "24 Hours of the Soviet Sky," reminiscent of the luxurious halls of museums. The artistic panels and clean architectural lines make it one of the most photographed metro stations.
Teatralnaya Station, which opened in 1938, is also an example of immortal architecture. Located in the center of Moscow, the station is decorated with reliefs depicting dancers and musicians, highlighting its proximity to the Bolshoi Theatre. Marble columns and classical stucco make it a true theater set.
Ploshchad Revolutsii Station, which opened in 1938, is another underground work of art. It is famous for its bronze sculptures installed in niches between the columns. The images of soldiers, workers, students, and farmers symbolize the victory of the revolution and the labor heroism of the Soviet people. The station is like a museum of the Soviet era, and every passenger is a participant in history.
Novoslobodskaya Station (1952) is a true masterpiece of the Moscow Metro, with its unique stained glass decorations. The stained glass windows, created by artist Pavel Korin, are brightly colored and depict images of the Soviet people. The soft light passing through the stained glass creates the atmosphere of a medieval castle hall in the lobby, taking passengers into a fairy tale world.
One of the most luxurious stations in the Moscow Metro is Kievskaya Station on the Arbatsko-Pokrovskaya Line, which opened in 1953. The station is decorated with colorful mosaics on the theme of friendship between Ukraine and Russia. Marble columns, huge chandeliers, and vibrant murals make this station a true underground palace, reflecting the spirit of the post-war era. Every element of its decoration is reminiscent of Soviet symbols, showing pride in national achievements.
Thus, each Moscow metro station is not just a place to transfer and wait for trains, but a true underground palace reflecting different historical and cultural eras. These stations, such as Mayakovskaya, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolutsii, Novoslobodskaya, and Kievskaya, are among the most beautiful stations in the world and the pride of the Moscow Metro.