It is hard to believe that riding a metro can be fun and adventurous.  Metros and subways produce visions of pushy hurrying crowds, noise, lines, waits and other hassles.  This is true, especially during rush hour, no matter where in the world you are.  But in Moscow, all of this aside, it really is an adventure to ride the metro.  Each metro station is a work of art in and of itself and as you are waiting for your train or getting pushed around by people intent only on reaching their destination you are surrounded by beautiful mosaics, sculpture, paintings and carvings.  Each station is different and it is not unusual for those new to the city to simple ride around on the metro on the weekend in order to visit and admire each station.

Entering the stations from the outside you have no foreshadowing of the surprise awaiting you.  The approach to the metro is like those the world over, dingy steps, doors that may or may not close and escalators that seem to lead to nowhere. It is only when you reach the bottom of those endless, fast, steep escalators that you step into a foyer of what seems to be a palace.  The contrast is stark and because of that the jewel that is the station itself is all that much more amazing.

Novoslabodskaya StationClose up of stained glass window

The residents of Moscow, long used to these amazing places, simply move briskly through the stations sparing not a single glance at the splendor around them.  To them it is normal to have marble gracing their steps and crystal chandeliers lighting their way underground. Sculpture and tile mosaics get no notice.  One way you can spot a visitor to Moscow, as a matter of fact, is to observe the crowd and note those who are not rushing with their head down, but who stop and gaze around them in wonder, surprised to find such cultural expression in a mere metro station.  Even after having spent several years In Moscow, I am still one of those who cannot pass through a station without stopping in amazement to enjoy the beauty.

Some stations are decorated completely in marble with intricate inlaid geometrical figures covering the walls and parts of the ceiling.  Others have huge stained glass panels floating above each end of the station, immediately visible when exiting a train in either direction.  Still others have sculpture at every column or large tile mosaics depicting classical Soviet themes along the walls.  Taking the ring line around the city is a feast for the eyes.  No matter what surprise is waiting for you at the next stop – it will be unique.

To see some more views of Moscow metro stations check out these links:

(or type “Moscow Metro photography” in a search engine)

http://asian-images.photoshelter.com/gallery/G0000JRqnZg86BgM

http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotos-g298484-d300623-w2-Moscow_Metro-Moscow_Central_Russia.html#