Lenin’s Mausoleum memorializes Russia’s first Communist leader with an austere yet grand final resting place on Red Square. Take a solemn visit to see the great man’s corpse, which is available for the public to view more than 90 years after he passed away.
Learn a bit of Lenin’s history before you visit. Despite asking to be buried in St. Petersburg next to his mother, Lenin’s remains are housed in this stone mausoleum. Upon his death, his remains were temporarily kept in a wooden building. When his funeral was held, the Russian government bowed to public pressure and erected the current mausoleum in 1929. During World War II, his remains were temporarily moved to Siberia as the Nazis approached.
Join the line of people waiting to pay their respects to Lenin. Visitors are not allowed to linger too long inside, so this line usually moves quite quickly. As you line up, take a moment to inspect the mausoleum building, with a striking pyramid shape. Although often overshadowed by some of the larger buildings on Red Square, Lenin’s Mausoleum is itself very distinctive. The red and black box-like structure is made of granite and labradorite. Its exterior is 40 feet (12 meters) tall.
Enter the mausoleum to reach a dark room where Lenin’s remains are kept. The very strict temperature and humidity regulations stop the corpse from decomposing. Lenin’s body is also bleached every week and is submerged in chemicals every 18 months. The years have taken its toll on Lenin’s body, but it is still an amazing sight and testament to the skill of the various embalmers who have worked on the remains since the 1920s. You’ll be allowed only a short time in this area, so be prepared to appreciate the experience.
If you will be visiting Lenin’s Mausoleum, remember that cameras and bags are not allowed. The site is open to the public every day, except Mondays and Fridays. Entrance is free.
