Moskovskaya Square in St. Petersburg

Have you ever wondered which is the largest square in St. Petersburg? Many tourists might immediately think of Palace Square—it makes sense, as it’s the most famous open space in the city. However, the largest square in St. Petersburg is actually Moskovskaya Square, located about 10 kilometers from the city center. Let’s delve into its history.

How to Get There by Metro

The square is situated in the southern part of Moskovsky Prospekt, with several exits leading from the "Moskovskaya" metro station.

The surrounding buildings echo the monumental architecture of the square

In summer, the area is adorned with flowers

The dominant feature of the square is the House of Soviets

A Bit of History

The square is named after Moskovsky Prospekt, which in turn takes its name from the Moskovsky District of the city. The route dates back to St. Petersburg's early history, as it followed the road to Saarskaya Myza (now the city of Pushkin). Interestingly, for a time, Moskovskaya Square was called Moskovskie Vorota Square.

During the blockade, an observation post was stationed on the roof of the monumental building

The House of Soviets was built between 1936 and 1941 based on a design by architect Noi Abramovich Trotsky

The largest square in Leningrad was planned according to the city's 1935 master plan. It was intended to become the new administrative center of the city. The square covers an area of 13 hectares, although the original plan envisioned a public space spanning 38–50 hectares. It was designed to host various events, parades, and celebrations.

The dominant feature of the new Leningrad center was to be the House of Soviets, built between 1936 and 1941, designed by architect Noy Abramovich Trotsky. Trotsky's other notable works include the Kirov District Soviet, the S. M. Kirov Cultural Palace, and the "Big House" on Liteyny Prospect, 4.

In April 1970, a monument to V. I. Lenin was erected at Moscow Square

The House of Soviets was the largest public building in pre-war Leningrad. During the Siege of Leningrad, an observation post was set up on its roof. Over time, plans to make it the city's administrative center were abandoned, and the building was repurposed to house institutions associated with the military-industrial complex. Today, online maps show it accommodates several bank offices, a real estate agency, a business center, a research institute, and many other organizations.

Fountains in the eastern part of the square

In April 1970, a monument to V. I. Lenin was unveiled on Moskovskaya Square. It was created by sculptor M. K. Anikushin and architect V. A. Kamensky. Anikushin is also known for his monument to A. S. Pushkin on Arts Square and the sculptural compositions of the Monument to the Heroic Defenders of Leningrad.

In 2006, a large fountain complex was inaugurated on the square. Today, judging by the number of visitors, this spot is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike.