Last night in Moscow

We spent today touring inside the walls of the Kremlin. Having grown up during the Soviet era, it was really hard to believe that we were actually walking inside the mysterious Kremlin. Inside the Kremlin is the buildings that house both sides of government (Senate and the Arsenal), the Kremlin Palace, several chuches dating back to the 1300's, and a fantastic museum housing artifacts dating to the early 11th century. We weren't allowed to take pictures inside the facilities, but I have posted some shots from the outside.

Here is the Kremlin Palace.

This is the entrance to the Kremlin. Thanks to some young ladies from Siberia in line ahead of us, we were able to maneuver through the ticket line with few problems. They were very kind and translated for us. One girl in particular was facinated with the U.S. and was very excited to be able to use her english skills. She had her picture taken with Teddi and me so that she could show her teacher back home. Her dream is to see the Grand Canyon and Niagara Falls.

Here is one of the many cathedrals inside the Kremlin. We went inside a few. They were all painted and guilded with gold on the inside. Truly amazing to think that they still stand and are perfectly preserved for nearly 700 years!

This evening we ventured to Arbat St., which is a pedestrian avenue in Moscow with shops and restaraunts near our hotel. It was cold, but very nice. We ate at the Hard Rock Cafe.