In most major cities, subway stations are dingy, smelly and stark. The opposite is true in Moscow. Many resemble fine art museums. The majority of the Moscow Metro stations were built from the 1930s through the 1950s during the height of the Soviet Union. They are often lit by chandeliers and faced with marble and granite. Along the walls and ceilings are impressive murals, mosaics, sculptures, bas-reliefs and bronze medallions like this one at Novokuznetskaya Station dedicated to Soviet soldiers. This metro station also has Carrara marble benches. So when you see the Moscow Metro Tour advertised, don’t snicker. It is a fascinating 90-minute excursion. A self-guided booklet is also available.
