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The Kremlin in Izmailovo, next to our hotel. |
We headed back into the centre of town to see Lenin’s memorial (which has his frozen body), as it had been closed on the other days of our visit.
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The Kremlin looked like something from Narnia. |
Unfortunately, Lenin’s memorial was still closed on New Year’s Day (contrary to online reports).
But it was worth coming in to see the white blanket over now familiar landmarks.
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I think I’m a wee bit obsessed with St Basil’s Cathedral. |
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The Christ Savior Orthodox Cathedral was glorious across the road as we waited to enter the Pushkin. |
It had been dark for a long time by the time we left the gallery. We headed straight to Gorky Park; the Muscovite equivalent of a Winter Wonderland.
An enormous field of rather sad looking snowmen greeted us.
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Making up for the missed childhood photo op. |
Unfortunately, the incredible looking ice skating arena was closed for the day. We were disappointed, but not as much as the hordes of Russian families with ice skates. I can’t figure out why so many attractions in Moscow publicise old opening hours, or don’t put holiday season closures on their website. It does get a little frustrating!
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The ice we’d hoped to skate on… |
Ah well. Nothing like a mulled wine in a cute little pop-up café to make up for it.
Our train left Moscow just before midnight, bound for St Petersburg. I love sleeping on trains, knowing I’ll be hurtling across the countryside while I sleep.