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The Casbah Club: Crucible of The Beatles’ Rise

Nestled in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant music scene, the Casbah Coffee Club holds a treasure trove of Beatles history that’s often overshadowed by the fame of the Cavern Club. It’s where the legendary Fab Four’s journey truly began, a crucible for their early sound and style.

I’ve always been fascinated by the lesser-known haunts that shaped music history, and the Casbah is a gem that deserves its spot in the limelight. This club wasn’t just a venue; it was a catalyst for the cultural revolution that swept across the globe.

As I peel back the layers of its storied past, you’ll discover why the Casbah Coffee Club is a must-visit for any Beatles aficionado or music lover. It’s a place where the walls still hum with the echoes of a bygone era, inviting us to take a step back into the vibrant sixties.

History of the Casbah Coffee Club

The Casbah Coffee Club holds an enigmatic space in rock ‘n’ roll history. Opened on August 29, 1959 , by Mona Best in the basement of her family home at 8 Hayman’s Green , it was more than just a hub for music; it was a springboard for The Beatles. Starting off as the Quarrymen, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and original drummer Pete Best, honed their talents within these walls.

Fascinatingly, the initial refurbishment of the club was a DIY affair by the fledgling band. They painted the walls and ceilings, embedding their legacy into the fabric of the building. The Casbah became infamous for its vibrant atmosphere, and the fact that it predated the fame of the Cavern Club means it’s steeped in raw Beatles history.

Not only did it witness early performances of tunes that would later resonate around the world, but it also served as a communal space where the true spirit of the Merseybeat emerged. With an eclectic mix of musical acts, it was a foundational part of the Liverpool music scene and catalyzed the cultural revolution of the 1960s — a true testament to its importance in music history.

The Beatles’ Connection to the Casbah

When I delve into the history of the Casbah Coffee Club, it’s impossible to overlook its deep connection with The Beatles. Before the spotlight of international fame, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison , and Pete Best frequently played here under the name The Quarrymen. I’ve learned that the Casbah provided them with their first residency, a platform that proved pivotal for their early development.

The Quarrymen’s transformation into The Beatles effectively seals the Casbah’s reputation in rock history. It’s here that they honed their craft and forged an identity that would soon echo far beyond Liverpool. The club’s influence was twofold—offering a creative space and introducing the musicians to a burgeoning fanbase eager for the new Merseybeat sound.

Intriguingly, The Beatles’ physical touch remains visible within the club’s walls. Their brushstrokes on the ceilings and the artwork they painted capture the raw energy of youth and ambition. These visual vestiges are a draw for fans, adding an authentic layer to the venue’s authenticity. These elements, their art, their music, all intertwined, are like hidden chapters of The Beatles’ legacy within the Casbah’s confines.

The Importance of the Casbah in Music History

When delving into the influence of the Casbah Coffee Club , it’s clear that its impact reaches far beyond its walls. As a catalyst for the British Invasion, the club’s role in shaping the music scene is undeniable. I’ve come across numerous accounts describing how the raw energy of the Quarrymen performances at the Casbah mirrored the city’s working-class spirit. It was here that the Quarrymen morphed into The Beatles , and rock ‘n’ roll history was written.

Liverpool’s Casbah helped in defining the vibrant Merseybeat genre. It wasn’t just a club; it was a cultural hotspot where young musicians could watch, learn, and engage with each other. By fostering such talent, Mona Best didn’t just create a venue – she laid the groundwork for an entire musical movement. The Beatles’ sound, honed within these walls, was flavoured by the spirit of the Casbah, its intimacy making the connection with fans tangible and real.

With musicians and fans gathered under one roof, the Casbah functioned as a melting pot for ideas, styles, and sounds. It wasn’t just the Beatles’ talents that were nurtured; the club promoted a diversity of bands, contributing to a wider, collective success story. Here, I’ve found that the sense of community and creativity ignited a musical revolution that reverberated globally. The Casbah’s legacy went well beyond Liverpool, influencing artists worldwide and altering the course of music history.

Exploring the Casbah Today

Visiting the Casbah Coffee Club today is like stepping back in time to the birthplace of The Beatles. It’s an intimate space, rich with history, preserved much as it was during the 1960s. I find the walls are still adorned with painted murals by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, a testament to the venue’s authenticity and its enduring heritage.

The club today operates as a heritage site for Beatles fans and music historians alike. Visitors can book tours that showcase the very stage where The Beatles honed their craft before they sky-rocketed to fame. It’s not just a tour; it’s an immersive experience where I’ve watched fans from all over the globe share their excitement, snapping photos and absorbing every detail.

• Guided tours available
• Original stage and murals
• Authentic memorabilia

The Casbah’s legacy continues to inspire new generations. It hosts special events and live music, nurturing the city’s current and future talent in a nod to its foundational role in the Merseybeat movement. It’s not just a musical landmark; it’s a vibrant, living piece of Liverpool’s cultural tapestry.

The Casbah Coffee Club stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. It’s where the legendary Beatles honed their craft and the Merseybeat sound came alive. As I’ve explored this iconic venue’s rich history, it’s clear that its walls echo with the music and stories that have shaped generations. Today, as a heritage site, it offers an immersive journey through the past for Beatles aficionados and music lovers alike. The club’s legacy, etched into the very fabric of Liverpool’s cultural identity, continues to resonate and inspire. It’s more than a historic landmark; it’s a beacon for the enduring power of music and community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the casbah coffee club’s role in rock ‘n’ roll history.

The Casbah Coffee Club was crucial in shaping the music scene in Liverpool, serving as the birthplace for The Beatles and a key venue in the British Invasion.

How did the Quarrymen transform at the Casbah Coffee Club?

At the Casbah Coffee Club, the Quarrymen evolved into The Beatles, setting the stage for their global influence on music and pop culture.

Who was Mona Best and what was her contribution to the music scene?

Mona Best was the founder of the Casbah Coffee Club. She played an instrumental role in fostering the Liverpool music scene, particularly by providing a space for new talent to perform and grow.

How did the Casbah Coffee Club influence the Merseybeat genre?

The club was a founding venue for the Merseybeat genre, with its supportive environment for emerging bands contributing significantly to the distinct sound and culture of the Liverpool music scene .

Is the Casbah Coffee Club still operating today?

Yes, the Casbah Coffee Club is still operational today as a heritage site, offering guided tours and hosting special events and live music performances.

Can visitors see original features from The Beatles’ time at the Casbah?

Visitors to the Casbah Coffee Club can indeed see original features such as the stage and murals painted by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, adding to the site’s authenticity and historical value.

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Casbah Coffee Club

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Casbah Coffee Club - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• (0.78 km) Premier Inn Liverpool (West Derby) hotel
• (1.33 km) Travelodge Liverpool Stoneycroft
• (2.60 km) Newsham Lodge
• (2.93 km) The Arc Hotel
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Casbah Coffee Club

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Casbah Coffee Club - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
• (0.78 km) Premier Inn Liverpool (West Derby) hotel
• (1.33 km) Travelodge Liverpool Stoneycroft
• (2.60 km) Newsham Lodge
• (2.93 km) The Arc Hotel
• (4.28 km) Novotel Liverpool Paddington Village
• (0.09 km) Blackdoor Bar & Bistro
• (0.12 km) Acropolis Greek Taverna
• (0.14 km) The Book
• (0.13 km) Phi Thai Restaurant
• (0.13 km) Macello Meat House - West Derby

The Casbah Coffee Club

The Casbah Coffee Club is a former music venue in the basement of former Beatle Pete Best’s childhood home. It is possible to visit the club for an authentic Beatles experience.

Pete’s mum, Mona Best, set up the cellar of their family home as a members-only club for her sons to meet with their friends and listen to music.

Other performers who have played at the club include Cilla Black, The Searchers and Gerry & The Pacemakers. The Beatles played their first gig here and they were also the last band to play at the Casbah.

Although it was a very popular music venue, it only operated for three years: from 1959 to 1962.

The Casbah is owned by Roag Aspinall-Best and his brother Pete Best, the Beatles’ original drummer, who also own the Magical Beatles Museum on Mathew Street.

What to see at the Casbah Coffee Club

As the Casbah Coffee Club remained in the Best family, it has been largely kept in its original condition.

This is probably not for you if you only have a passing interest in the band, however, real fans of the Beatles will really enjoy a visit to the Casbah Coffee Club.

It is simply a much more authentic and intimate experience than most of Liverpool’s other Beatles-themed attractions. You don’t get the crowds that come with the other Beatles sights and often there are only a couple of other people visiting the club with you. Even better is the fact that you’re given a tour by people who have personal experience growing up with the band. In many instances, Pete Best’s brother Roag gives you a personal tour himself.

Visiting the Casbah Coffee Club

The Casbah Coffee Club is located on a tree-lined residential street in West Derby in Liverpool’s eastern suburbs. It is a long way from all the other Beatles sights and even the Magical Mystery Tour doesn’t come out here. The easiest way to get out here is by local bus route 15, which runs every 12 minutes and takes around half an hour from the city centre.

You can’t simply turn up at the Casbah Coffee Club as visits are by appointment only. You can book either by calling 07872 017 473 or through Pete Best’s website . However, when you do arrive you will be greeted by a guide with a personal connection to the band so it is a much more intimate experience than you would have if you simply visited a museum.

• Guided tours (paid)

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The Casbah Coffee Club – Birthplace of The Beatles

The Casbah Coffee Club Opens in West Derby 29th August 1959

“Come on down to the Casbah”

Much has been written about the Cavern and its place in Beatles history. However, there is a great chunk of Beatles history that has been overlooked for many years. While The Cavern was entertaining jazz fans, The Casbah became the place to be. Why was it so important? Why was Mona (Mo) Best, Pete Best’s mum, so important?

Roag, Rory and Pete’s book ‘ The Beatles – The True Beginnings’  opens with this quote:

“I think it’s a good idea to let people know about the Casbah. They know about the Cavern, they know about some of those things, but the Casbah was the place where all that started. We helped paint it and stuff. We looked upon it as our personal club.”

Sir Paul McCartney

What else can you say? If Paul says it, it must be true.

You may have heard about the Casbah as a club at which the Quarrymen played, but not much else.

So let’s consider the facts about The Casbah:

• The Casbah was the first ‘Beat’ club in Liverpool – all the others (like the Cavern) were still jazz clubs.
• This is where George Harrison and Ken Brown re-formed the Quarrymen after not playing together for months.
• The Casbah was hand-decorated by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Pete Best, Ken Brown and Cynthia Powell.
• It was here that John and Paul convinced Stuart to join the band by spending his money on the bass guitar – under duress – as remembered by Paul McCartney and witnessed by Rory Best.
• The Casbah was home to all of the major Merseybeat bands to emerge in the 60s, like The Beatles, The Searchers, Gerry & The Pacemakers, Rory Storm and the Hurricanes, Derry & the Seniors, Billy J Kramer, The Big Three, Faron and the Flamingos, The Undertakers, and so the list goes on (which is why the musicians called Mo the “Mother of Merseybeat.”)
• This was the first place they played outside of Hamburg as ‘The Beatles’.
• The Beatles had to regroup after being thrown out of Hamburg, so they came back together to perform at The Casbah.
• Paul had found a job and the others were disillusioned. John had stayed in Hamburg for a few weeks but eventually returned. It was Mo who got them back together again and let them play at the Casbah. She also took a more pro active role in getting them bookings. Would they have disbanded otherwise?
• It was at the Casbah that The Beatles always played before going to Hamburg and immediately after they returned. They rehearsed there, often in the lounge.
• It was Mo who got The Beatles back into Germany after they had been deported, after contacting Peter Eckhorn, who owned the Top Ten Club.
• It was Mo who got them their first proper rock ‘n’ roll gig at the Cavern after convincing Ray McFall, who took advice from Bob Wooler, to book The Beatles.
• When The Beatles played at the Tower Ballroom, New Brighton, it was the biggest indoor concert The Beatles ever gave in Britain – around 4,500 people. The poster for the night proclaimed The Beatles – “by kind permission of Mrs. Best.”
• Mo bought and let them use the equipment she had bought for the Casbah, and they stored everything there. If The Beatles were playing elsewhere, she would close the Casbah, as everyone would follow the band around the city. Even after Pete was dismissed, they continued to go there. In fact, The Beatles still stored their equipment at the Casbah until the summer of 1963 – which shows the true character of Mo.
• She formed Casbah Promotions and took ‘her’ bands to bigger venues. (Image casbah ticket “Casbah Promotions”)
• The Beatles’ first radio broadcast was in Manchester on 7 March 1962 for a show called ‘Teenager’s Turn (Here We Go).’ As the show was pre-recorded, all but George came to the Casbah the next day to listen to it on the radiogram in the lounge.
• Just as John, Paul and George as the Quarrymen opened the club, it was The Beatles – John, Paul, George and Pete – who closed it on 24 June 1962.
• Ironically, the Casbah marked the birth of The Beatles when they opened it on 29 August 1959, and The Beatles’ last live concert was at Candlestick Park exactly seven years later – 29 August 1966.

Discover More about The Casbah

Any place that has all of that as history should be the focus for all Beatles fans across the world. When fans visit the Casbah they are amazed that such an important place has remained hidden for all these years.

The Quarrymen and The Casbah

The whole story of the Casbah is amazing, yet I was stunned when I realised that I wasn’t aware of it – and I live in Liverpool! I had to find out more. When you read the whole story you too will be ‘gobsmacked’.

Most fans will know of Hunter Davies’ ‘definitive’ first biography and will notice The Casbah hardly gets a mention. Even years later when he had the chance to correct things in his book ‘ The Quarrymen ’, the Casbah’s only real mention is:

“In August 1959, they had a bit of luck – the Casbah opened. It provided them with regular bookings and also their next drummer, Pete Best.”

If you have only read the early editions, you have missed out. When Hunter Davies later updated his book, he rectified the original omission after meeting Pete, and inserted a chapter of its own for the Casbah, giving it its rightful place.

So, as Mo would say, “Come with me to The Casbah”.

How did Mo buy her house? She decided to take her valuable Indian jewellery to the pawnshop and then took the cash to the betting shop. Mo placed it on a horse that was entered in the 1954 Derby, one of the biggest horse races in Britain. She liked the sound of a horse named ‘Never Say Die’, which was ridden by a young unknown jockey called Lester Piggott – who went on to become one of Britain’s best-known jockeys. The horse wasn’t fancied but won at the juicy odds of 33-1. This win enabled Mo to realise her dream of owning the big house at 8 Haymans Green.

Creating the Casbah Coffee Club

One night, all the friends had gathered at Haymans Green to watch a television show – they were one of a few houses to have a television – when Mona saw the famous club, ‘Two I’s Coffee Bar’, which was based in London on the television. She decided that she should open a coffee club for young people.

Rory Best remembers:

“Mo stood up and declared: ‘I’m going to turn the basement into a little coffee club’. My father turned round and said, ‘Over my dead body!’

John Best apparently just kept repeating the phrase ‘You’re crazy!’ and shaking his head.

What happened next and who said what has not been recorded, but we know they started clearing the basement the next day to prepare for a new coffee club!”

And what about the name, Rory? Why the Casbah?

“Mo had remembered seeing the film Algiers with Charles Boyer, and remembered the line, ‘Come with me to the Casbah’ and so decided to call it the Casbah Coffee Club.”

From a house initially nicknamed Dracula’s Castle by Pete and Rory, and eventually renamed Shangri-La, it was about to be transformed. And that was that. On 29 August 1959, the Casbah Coffee Club opened.

However, The Casbah was more than just a club.

Birthplace of The Beatles

The Best family claims that The Casbah was actually the birthplace of The Beatles – with some justification.

The Quarrymen were effectively reborn on 29 August 1959 when they opened The Casbah. By the time The Beatles closed the club in June 1962, they had played there at least 44 times.

As there was still a lot of work to do to get the club ready for opening, they were all asked to help out – John, Paul, George, Cynthia, Ken and Pete, Rory and Mo Best.

This is the amazing thing about the Casbah. There is nothing else like it in the world. Still untouched after more than 40 years, you can see the work carried out by them all: a club that was hand painted by John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Pete Best and Cynthia Powell…not a bad firm of interior decorators!

The first room you enter is the Aztec Room, painted by John. Rory remembers what happened. “Originally, John painted his now famous three-legged pot-bellied caricatures, but when Mo saw what he’d done she went mad! She hated what John had done, so she told him to change it. John then painted over them with green gloss paint – he should have used matt emulsion but, not wearing his glasses, he used the wrong paint. Mo also hated the colour green, so she told him to get rid of it. He then produced something with a more Aztec feel, which is what Mo wanted.

To leave his mark, John started to engrave his name into the wooded wall paneling and got as far as ‘John’ before Mo caught him and stopped him. She slapped him across the back of the head and his glasses fell off. He then trod on his glasses and so had to borrow Mo’s mother’s glasses to finish the job – we still possess both pairs of glasses! The scratched name is still there, standing out in Mo’s beautiful new woodwork.”

Paul Paints a Rainbow

Rory continues: “Not to be outdone, Paul painted a rainbow ceiling, with stripes for each colour.”

With George Harrison, Pete Best, Stuart Sutcliffe and Cynthia Powell also lending a hand, The Casbah is the only club that, as well as being the Birthplace of The Beatles, is the only club hand-painted by The Beatles!!

if you come to Liverpool, make sure you visit The Casbah Coffee Club!

Find out more about The Casbah in “ Liddypool: Birthplace of The Beatles ” by David Bedford

Liddypool: Birthplace of The Beatles (Softback)

Liddypool: Birthplace of The Beatles, the first book by David Bedford, the definitive book on The Beatles and Liverpool: the stories, the history, the guide.

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Full Day Tour

The beatles extravaganza day tour is operated by pool of life tours.

An all day tour for the passionate Beatles fan!

With a full day at our disposal, we take you back to where it all began and give you time to really soak up the atmosphere.

You may know all the dates and songs, but it’s no substitute for standing at the gates of Strawberry Field or in Paul McCartney’s bedroom.

This tour is taken in a comfortable 8-seater minibus, stopping for photos at all the main sites associated with the Beatles in Liverpool and taking you into the homes of John and Paul. We also visit the Casbah Coffee Club – an early Beatles venue, and a hidden gem. A brother of Pete Best (the original drummer) will show you around this rarely seen and historic building.

Highlights include:

• The Cavern and Mathew Street
• Paul and George’s school
• John Lennon’s art school
• Ringo’s childhood home
• George’s home
• Entrance into John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s homes *
• St Peter’s Church Hall (where John and Paul met for the first time)
• Eleanor Rigby’s grave
• Strawberry Field
• The Casbah Coffee Club
• Percy Phillip’s studio (where they made their first recording)

* Please note: Paul McCartney and John Lennon’s homes are only open from March until October and are very popular. In the event that a tour is booked up or the properties are closed we will pay for admission into The Beatles Story Museum instead. This also applies on Mondays and Tuesdays when the homes are closed to the public.

Our guides are qualified, friendly, Beatles specialists and fans too! As our maximum size minibus is 8 seats we offer a personal service allowing plenty of time to answer individual questions and stop for photographs.

Testimonials

You will see by our references that clients are very pleased with the standard of service and visitors often arrive as strangers and leave as friends. We feel that this is the sort of company we are, just like the city and its Beatles heritage that we are proud to introduce you to.

“Just wanted to say a big thank you for such an amazing tour last Friday morning. Not only did you accommodate me at the very last minute, but the tour covered many areas that I really wanted to see, complete with the opportunity to stop and take photos. The idea of having a smaller group made it much more intimate and easier to communicate.” Katherine (UK)

“I want to take this opportunity to thank you once more for giving us such an amazing tour! Chris and I have since reminisced about what we saw, what we heard, what we learned and we both agree that our favourite part of our whole trip was the time spent with you and with Rory – THANK YOU!!!” Your new friend in Canada, Danielle

“It was a fantastic experience to walk around in the places associated with The Beatles’ songs and life. The tour was unforgettable and the guide is very nice and funny. I will never forget this weekend. Thanks Tim!” Murilo Rocha (Brazil)

“Like I have already expressed to you before, our trip to Liverpool was a memorable one to say the least, especially for Arnold and me. Anjali my wife was excited for me and was happy that we saw all that we could in a very short stay. I would recommend this trip for any person who has any interest in The Beatles at all. Thanks Again!!!” Arnold and Shellar Nath (Canada)

Tour Information

Times: 9:30am to 4.00pm approx

Price: £98.00 per person (price includes all admission fees)

Departure point: Albert Dock or your hotel (by arrangement)

Ready to book your tour? We need the following information from you:

• When would you like to take the tour?
• How many are in your group?
• Where would you like to be picked up (any central location in Liverpool is fine)?
• Do you have any special requests?

Email [email protected] with your requirements and we’ll get back to you promptly with confirmation.

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Casbah Coffee Club

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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CASBAH COFFEE CLUB: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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Casbah Coffee Club

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Casbah Coffee Club - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• (0.78 km) Premier Inn Liverpool (West Derby) hotel
• (1.33 km) Travelodge Liverpool Stoneycroft
• (2.60 km) Newsham Lodge
• (2.93 km) The Arc Hotel
• (4.28 km) Novotel Liverpool Paddington Village
• (0.09 km) Blackdoor Bar & Bistro
• (0.12 km) Acropolis Greek Taverna
• (0.14 km) The Book
• (0.13 km) Phi Thai Restaurant
• (0.13 km) Macello Meat House - West Derby

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

Tags:  Moscow city

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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Moscow   Travel Guide

7 Best Things To Do in Moscow

Updated February 11, 2021

Art, museums and history reign supreme in Moscow, one of the most pristinely and magnificently preserved cities. This beautiful walking city is also recommended for couples. Here you can stroll through 15th-century cathedrals, explore Russian

• All Things To Do

Red Square Red Square free

One of the world's most famous public squares, the Red Square sits at the physical center of Moscow and is considered the symbolic center of all of Russia. Bluntly speaking, Red Square is a must-see in the city. Allot a decent amount of time to take in the views, capture them on your camera and to just soak in the atmosphere of the place.

You'll find the Red Square is bordered by the massive GUM shopping mall on the east, St. Basil's Cathedral on the south, the State Historical Museum on the north and Lenin's Mausoleum on the west.

Tretyakov Gallery Tretyakov Gallery

Many say the Tretyakov Gallery features the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. This museum is filled to the brim with masterpieces ranging from the 11th century to the 20th century. The gallery is actually comprised of two buildings, often referred to as the "Old Tretyakov" and the "New Tretyakov."

If you make time for only one museum in Moscow, make sure it's this one. Frommer's says, "This collection of masterpieces awes both newcomers to Russian art and connoisseurs." With works from Russian icons like Vrubel and Kadinsky dotted throughout the museum, you could easily find yourself whiling away the whole day here.

St. Basil's Cathedral St. Basil's Cathedral

St. Basil's Cathedral, also known by its much longer title as the Cathedral of Intercession of Theotokos on the Moat , is the most iconic landmark in Russia. It's located in Red Square , immediately recognizable by its unique bonfire-style design.

Built in the mid-16th century under the orders of Ivan the Terrible himself, (a popular legend says he had the architect blinded to prevent him from duplicating the beauty) St. Basil's Cathedral is most known for its vibrantly colored onion domes. Frommer's says the cathedral is "essentially a union of nine different churches and styles, and nine different chapels, beneath nine domes, each unique in size, form, and color."

Cathedral of Christ the Savior Cathedral of Christ the Savior free

The Cathedral of Christ the Savior is located along the bank of the Moscow River and only a few blocks away from the Kremlin . Tourists come to the cathedral for its impressive architecture and design, as well as for its equally impressive (and strange) history.

The cathedral was originally built to commemorate the Russian victory over Napoleon in 1812 and to honor the soldiers who gave their lives fighting him. Then in 1931, Stalin had the structure dynamited to make room for his Palace of the Soviets project -- an ambitious skyscraper (it would have been the tallest structure in the world) that never materialized. Instead, the site was transformed in 1958 into the Moscow Pool, one of the largest public swimming pools in the world. The pool closed in 1994 and the cathedral was rebuilt in its place in 1997.

Moscow Kremlin Moscow Kremlin

Often referred to simply as "The Kremlin," this fortress is located in the center of Moscow, off of the Red Square . It is the most well known of the Kremlins (Russian citadels) and serves as the official residence of the Russian President. The Kremlin encompasses four cathedrals, four palaces and a number of towers.

One of the major highlights here is the Armory Palace, one of the city's oldest museums. The Armory Palace was originally the royal Russian arsenal where weapons were produced and stored. It wasn't until the early 1800s that it was converted into a museum. Now, it showcases Western European, Asian and Russian weapons and armor, as well as several collections of work from goldsmiths, silversmiths and jewelers. Don't miss the Fabergé egg exhibit. 

Lenin's Mausoleum Lenin's Mausoleum free

Lenin's Mausoleum is located in Red Square and is probably one of the stranger tourist attractions you'll ever come across. It contains the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin, a disturbing site that has been on display almost every day since his death in 1924.

Lonely Planet says, "Whether for the creepiness value or an interest in mummification, the granite tomb of Lenin is a must-see, especially since (if some people get their way) the former leader may eventually end up beside his mum in St Petersburg." Apparently, the Bolsheviks leader made a specific request to be buried alongside his mother before he died.

Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts is located on Volkhonka Street across from the Cathedral of Christ the Savior . It houses the largest collection of European art in Moscow, and it was named in honor of one of Russia's premier poets, Alexander Pushkin.

You don't go here to read sonnets, though. Instead, you should look to find art spanning a wide range of eras and movements, from ancient Greece to the Renaissance to French Impressionism. Masterpieces from the likes of Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso and Van Gogh easily make this museum deserving of a visit.

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• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Top 10 places for a day trip from Moscow

• #Russian History
• #Special Interest
• #Suburbs of Moscow

Moscow offers tourists many great sights to see, but if you ask locals, they will tell you that Moscow is not all there is to Russia, so it’s worth getting away sometimes. Without exploring further, you miss something of the Russian unique character. If you wonder what to visit near Moscow, we recommend you 10 places where a tourist can go for a refreshing recreation, new impressions, and acquaintance with Russian history and culture.

01 Sergiyev Posad

Sergiyev Posad is one of the most beautiful towns located around Moscow. It’s not only famous for its monastery, the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, but also for the fact that it’s the only town in the Moscow Region that is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities. Its cities and towns influenced the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. But the main thing which one should visit Sergiyev Posad is the Lavra for sure. You may spend there all day, walking around and enjoying the sense of its power and strength. You absolutely have to buy some honey cakes as souvenirs for friends and feed Lavra’s pigeons when entering the monastery. Besides, you may visit Sergiyev Posad State History and Art Museum-Reserve, which has quite an impressive collection, take a look at the displays in the National Museum of Toys, and taste truly Russian food in local cafes and restaurants.

You can reach Sergiyev Posad by suburban electric train, by bus, or by car. The electric train departs from the Yaroslavsky rain terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts for an hour and a half. You may take a bus near the ‘VDNKh’ metro station, and you’ll be in Sergiyev Posad in an hour and a half at least and in two hours at most. Your car will take you there in an hour and a half at most, too. You should drive the Yaroslavskoye highway. 

If you want to look at a city that combines hi-tech and historical past, you should absolutely visit Kolomna. It is one of the most famous ancient cities in Russia, a beautiful port on the Oka River. Kolomna has its own Kremlin, which is made of red brick, like the Moscow Kremlin. Inside it, you may find many monasteries and churches, including the one in which Dmitry of the Don, Prince of Moscow, and Grand Prince of Vladimir, had his wedding to the Grand Duchess of Muscovy Eudoxia of Moscow. There is still a reserved residential area which is called Posad, right in the Kremlin territory. The buildings date back to merchants’ times. There are some interesting churches, too. In 2006, the Kolomna Speed Skating Center, known as the Kometa Ice Rink, was opened. Its futuristic look contrast the picturesque views of the ancient Kolomna Kremlin and its beautiful churches.

The best way to reach Kolomna is an electric train that departs from the Kazansky rail terminal. The trip lasts for two and a half, or one hour and forty minutes by the Ryazansky express. You can also choose a bus from the Vykhino metro station (1.4 to 4 hrs due to traffic jams) or a car.

03 Shakhmatovo

Shakhmatovo was a manor of the well-known Russian lyrical poet Alexander Blok. His grandfather Andrey Nikolaevich Beketov bought it, and young Blok used to spend it there every summer. Later, he moved there with his wife Lyubov Mendeleeva, who was the daughter of the famous chemist Dmitri Mendeleev. Blok’s grandfather decided to buy Shakhmatovo because of its picturesque views. They are really very nice, and the better time to visit this place is spring and summer. According to his own project, Blok’s mansion is a wooden house built by the poet but burnt by peasants in 1921. It was rebuilt in 2001, and since that time, it often holds big events and excursions. There is also a stable in Shakhmatovo territory, and everyone interested may ride a horse, or rent a bicycle in the summertime, or ski in wintertime.

Shakhmatovo can be reached by car because other options combine train departs from the Leningradsky rail terminal, then changes to bus till the Tarakanovo manor, then goes by foot, or bus from the Vodny stadion metro station, and then also by foot. Travel time is 1.4 hrs.

04 Zakharovo

It is a manor located in the Odintsovo District of the Moscow Region, where everybody interested may learn more about the greatest Russian poet Alexander Sergeevich Pushkin. In 1804, Zakharova was bought by his grandmother Mariya Alexeevna Gannibal, and young Pushkin was brought here every summer from 1805 through to 1810. He recalled Zakharovo in his poems as well. Now, the house which Pushkin visited as a child doesn’t exist anymore, but it was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century on the former basis. Now it is a quiet and nice place with a museum dedicated to the famous poet's childhood, where one may spend a day enjoying the spirit of the time when young Pushkin ran across manor’s paths. From that time, linden park, approach alleys, and pond were saved. Not very far away from Zakharovo, another place connected to Pushkin’s name is located. It’s called Bolshiye Vyazyomy, and there the young Pushkin’s brother Nikolenka was buried after his death at the age of six.

The best way to go there is by train, which departs from the Belorussky rail terminal and goes to Zvenigorod. You should leave at the Zakharovo station. Travel time is an hour and a half.

05 Borodino

Borodino is truly a sacred place for all those who honor the great Russian past. The Borodino Battlefield held the most important fighting during the Patriotic War of 1812. This place was made a museum area in 1839, just after 27 years after the battle. More than two thousand memorable things are stored in the museum, including some monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to the 19th and 20th centuries, and fortification facilities. Besides, there is also an exhibition dedicated to the famous novel ‘War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, who visited Borodino in person and described this battle in his book. Every year, reconstruction events occur in Borodino, which is considered the best for visiting. But if you want to feel the spirit of the battle past, it’s better to visit it in more quiet time.

To go there, you should take a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, leave in Mozhaysk, and then change to the bus. The whole travel time is about 2 hrs.

06 Melikhovo

Melikhovo is considered one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, one of the brightest Russian writers and playwrights. Chekhov had been living in Melikhovo from March 1892 until August 1899 with his parents and close relatives. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “Uncle Vanya” and “The Seagull.” He sold this manor before going to the Crimea, and it became vague after the revolution. But in 1939, it was decided to establish a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew initiated the process, and the museum opened its doors in 1941. Now Melikhovo shows the path of Chekhov not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. Some paintings of famous artists such as Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends, are being stored. It’s a nice place to visit to learn more about Chekov’s life and work.

The best way to reach Melikhovo is by bus, which departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station, and goes to Protvino, Obolensk, or Serpukhov, or by the direct 365 bus. Also, you may choose an electric train from the Kursky rail terminal. Travel time is 1,5 hrs.

07 Abramtsevo

This is another manor connected to the lives of important Russian people — not only writers but also artists. Abramtsevo, located close to Sergiev Posad, was a property of Sergey Aksakov, a writer and a Slavophiles, and later of Savva Mamontov, a well-known patron of the arts. Abramtsevo used to be visited by writers Ivan Turgenev and Nikolay Gogol, poet Fyodor Tyutchev, and such artists as Isaac Levitan, Vasily Polenov, and Mikhail Vrubel, and by the great Russian singer Fyodor Shalyapin as well. The exhibition in the museum is dedicated to famous Abramtsevo owners and guests. It was made a museum in 1917, and its first curator was Alexandra Mamontova, Savva Mamontov’s daughter. The main sightseeing view is a wooden building made in the 18th century and saved in Savva Mamontov's form in the 19th century. There are also some bright buildings such as hut pavilion or hut bath-house. You have to remember that the main manor house may be visited only with an excursion group on the weekend.

Electric train to Abramtsevo departs from the Yaroslavsky rail terminal and goes to Sergiyev Posad or Aleksandrov. You may reach Abramtsevo by bus as well. Travel time is an hour and a half.

08 Yasnaya Polyana

Yasnaya Polyana is known as a place of residence of the famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. He was born there, wrote his novels ‘War and Peace’ and ‘Anna Karenina,’ died and is buried. He’d been living in this manor for fifty years. Yasnaya Polyana is located in the Tula Region, 200 km from Moscow to the south. This manor consists of many interesting and significant objects. For example, the interior of the main house where Tolstoy lived is being kept like it was in 1910 — it was the last year for the writer. All things in the house are considered to be personal belongings of Tolstoy and his family. Besides the main house, the Yasnaya Polyana ensemble includes the so-called Volkonsky house — the house of Tolstoy’s grandfather, the Kuzminskiye wing, which is a part of the oldest house where Tolstoy was born, now non-existent, the birch alley made by Sofya Andreevna, Leo Tolstoy’s wife, stable, ponds, and favorite Tolstoy’s bench. Leo Tolstoy’s tomb is located close to the ravine's edge — it’s where he wanted to be buried.

The whole travel time to Yasnaya Polyana is about 4 hrs as long as it’s located near Tula. It can be reached by train, or by car. First, you should go to Tula by train from the Kursky rail terminal or by bus from the Tsaritsyno, Domodedovskaya, Prazhskaya, or Ulitsa Akademika Yangelya metro stations, and then change to bus, or by trolley bus for Yasnaya Polyana.

09 Polotnyany Zavod

This place which title can be translated into Russian as ‘linen factory,’ is known for its connection to the Goncharov family, from which Natalia Goncharova, Alexander Pushkin’s wife, originated. The real linen factory was built on the bank of the Sukhodrev River in the Kaluga Region in 1718 by Peter the Great order. Goncharov, Natalia’s great grandfather, was one of the companions who participated in the factory’s development. Every companion built his own manor close to the factory’s building, and even for those times, it was quite an uncommon situation. Polotnyany Zavod was visited by the empress Catherine the Great, the Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov, and Nikolay Vasilievich Gogol. In 1999, when everybody celebrated the bicentennial of Alexander Pushkin, Polotnyany Zavod was made a museum, and now it welcomes many guests who come to see dramatized excursions and to learn more about Pushkin times. The poet himself visited this place two times, in 1830 and 1834. Polotnyany Zavod has the most picturesque panoramic view in the Kaluga Region.

To go to Polotnyany Zavod, you should take a bus from the bus station near the Tyoply Stan metro station, and go to Kondorovo. It takes a little more than three hours.

Tarus is just another little town in Kaluga Region, which is considered to be typical Russian. It’s located on the left bank of the Oka River and has really magnificent views. It feels like time stands still there. Tarusa managed to preserve the best from the past, and even now, it consists mostly of one-storeyed houses made of wood or stone. They say it’s because Tarusa residents declined railroad construction. This town became popular among Russian intellectuals at the beginning of the 20th century when famous artist Vasily Polenov discovered it and told about Tarusa to anyone in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Tarusa is known to be a hometown for Russian writer Marina Tsvetaeva, whose family spent summertime there. Tsvetaeva museum is a museum every guest of Tarusa should visit for sure. Besides, Konstantin Paustovsky, another famous Russian writer, lived there till his death and was buried in Tarusa. The absolutely must-do in Tarusa is to walk along the embankment of the Oka River.

The best way to reach Tarusa is by direct bus which departs from the bus station near the ‘Tyoply Stan’ metro station. Travel time is about two hours.

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• 1. Sergiyev Posad
• 3. Shakhmatovo
• 4. Zakharovo
• 5. Borodino
• 6. Melikhovo
• 7. Abramtsevo
• 8. Yasnaya Polyana
• 9. Polotnyany Zavod

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