Why it qualified: “Inextricably linked to all the most important historical and political events in Russia since the 13th century, the Kremlin (built between the 14th and 17th centuries by outstanding Russian and foreign architects) was the residence of the Great Prince and also a religious centre. At the foot of its ramparts, on Red Square, St Basil’s Basilica is one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox monuments.” – World Heritage Convention
Russia boasts some of the most dazzling cultural and natural sights in the world. From the world’s largest museum to its oldest and deepest lake, outrageously gilded palaces to elaborate timber monasteries, this country conjures up a special kind of magic. With 26 UNESCO World Heritage sites, of which 16 are cultural and 10 are natural, there is no shortage of wonders here. Let’s take a look at some of the most spectacular landmarks that Russia has to offer.
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Moscow Kremlin and Red Square
Year of inscription: 1990
Why it qualified: “Inextricably linked to all the most important historical and political events in Russia since the 13th century, the Kremlin (built between the 14th and 17th centuries by outstanding Russian and foreign architects) was the residence of the Great Prince and also a religious centre. At the foot of its ramparts, on Red Square, St Basil’s Basilica is one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox monuments.” – World Heritage Convention
Novodevichy Convent
Year of inscription: 2004
Why it qualified: “The Novodevichy Convent, in south-western Moscow, built in the 16th and 17th centuries in the so-called Moscow Baroque style, was part of a chain of monastic ensembles that were integrated into the defence system of the city. The convent was directly associated with the political, cultural and religious history of Russia, and closely linked to the Moscow Kremlin. It was used by women of the Tsar’s family and the aristocracy. Members of the Tsar’s family and entourage were also buried in its cemetery. The convent provides an example of the highest accomplishments of Russian architecture with rich interiors and an important collection of paintings and artifacts.” – World Heritage Convention
Year of inscription: 1990
Why it qualified: “Inextricably linked to all the most important historical and political events in Russia since the 13th century, the Kremlin (built between the 14th and 17th centuries by outstanding Russian and foreign architects) was the residence of the Great Prince and also a religious centre. At the foot of its ramparts, on Red Square, St Basil’s Basilica is one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox monuments.” – World Heritage Convention
Install
Summer Palace in St. Petersburg | Courtesy of © Drew Finnis
Russia / SEE & DO
Russia's Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Anya Schukin
Russia boasts some of the most dazzling cultural and natural sights in the world. From the world’s largest museum to its oldest and deepest lake, outrageously gilded palaces to elaborate timber monasteries, this country conjures up a special kind of magic. With 26 UNESCO World Heritage sites, of which 16 are cultural and 10 are natural, there is no shortage of wonders here. Let’s take a look at some of the most spectacular landmarks that Russia has to offer.
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Moscow Kremlin and Red Square
Year of inscription: 1990
Why it qualified: “Inextricably linked to all the most important historical and political events in Russia since the 13th century, the Kremlin (built between the 14th and 17th centuries by outstanding Russian and foreign architects) was the residence of the Great Prince and also a religious centre. At the foot of its ramparts, on Red Square, St Basil’s Basilica is one of the most beautiful Russian Orthodox monuments.” – World Heritage Convention
Novodevichy Convent
Year of inscription: 2004
Why it qualified: “The Novodevichy Convent, in south-western Moscow, built in the 16th and 17th centuries in the so-called Moscow Baroque style, was part of a chain of monastic ensembles that were integrated into the defence system of the city. The convent was directly associated with the political, cultural and religious history of Russia, and closely linked to the Moscow Kremlin. It was used by women of the Tsar’s family and the aristocracy. Members of the Tsar’s family and entourage were also buried in its cemetery. The convent provides an example of the highest accomplishments of Russian architecture with rich interiors and an important collection of paintings and artifacts.” – World Heritage Convention