The All-Russia Exhibition Center (called VVC or VDNKh). It was open in 1939 as an agricultural exhibition, but later the complex was extended and in 1959 it was re-open under the name Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy. There are about 400 buildings. Since my hotel was closeby I visited it one evening (while all the other participants of my travel group were attending some folk dancing).
The 'Friendship of Nations' fountain, built in 1954 as a symbol of the Soviet Union: it contains 16 female sculptures, each representing one of the former Soviet Republics.
The Cosmos pavilion with a real rocket and aircraft.
It surprised me to see so many young people here, it was a pleasant visit.
(photos by RfA, 2009)
update: photos of the 75th anniversary celebration
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That sounds like a fascinating trip! The first picture reminds me of the 'Brandenburger Tor'.
ReplyDeleteThese are beautiful photos, it's like almost being there myself. What a pleasant view with all. Thanks for sharing them with us.
ReplyDeleteLisa beatme to it. As soon as I saw that triumphal arch I thought of the Brandenburg Gate.
ReplyDeleteI didn't notice it at the time, but indeed it looks like the Brandenburger Tor. I remember there was police checking out the people entering the complex, so I became slightly worried, but everybody could walk through the gate without problems. Russia isn't as totalitarian as we sometimes think in the West.
ReplyDeleteMemorable pics. The skies stood out for me -- those northern skies have different qualities from those found further south.
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