The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands beside the Kremlin Wall in Alexander Garden, near the entrance to Manezhnaya Square. Its eternal flame and bronze memorial honor soldiers who died in World War II. The remains of unknown soldiers killed in the 1941 Battle of Moscow were brought here in 1966. Pause at the memorial, then watch the guards change, a brief ceremony held every hour. The garden’s paths, plantings and nearby museums and cathedrals make it easy to include this quiet place in a walk through central Moscow.
A memorial in Alexander Garden
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is set against the Kremlin Wall in Alexander Garden, near the entrance to Manezhnaya Square. It was unveiled in 1966, when the remains of unknown soldiers killed in the 1941 Battle of Moscow were moved here for the battle’s 25th anniversary.
The memorial is dedicated to soldiers who died in World War II. Its eternal flame burns before a bronze helmet and banner, set on a porphyry block. Memorial stones nearby honor 12 cities of the former Soviet Union designated Hero Cities for their courage and sacrifice during the war.
The eternal flame and guard ceremony
Two guards stand at posts beside the flame, and the changing of the guard takes place every hour. The ceremony lasts about five minutes. People also come to lay flowers and pay their respects, so keep your voice low and leave space for others at the memorial.
Information plaques may be in Russian only. If you want more context as you look around, bring a guidebook or check the memorial’s history before your visit.
Adding the tomb to a garden walk
The memorial sits within Alexander Garden, where paths and plantings give you space to continue walking after your stop. Tulips, lilac and amaranth are among the flowers noted in the garden. Nearby sights include museums and cathedrals, making the tomb a practical pause during a broader visit to the area.
For a quieter visit, aim for early morning or go between guard changes. The site is accessible around the clock, but the hourly ceremony draws people to the memorial.
FAQ
Where is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow?
It is in Alexander Garden, against the Kremlin Wall near the entrance to Manezhnaya Square.
When does the guard change?
The guard changes every hour. The ceremony lasts about five minutes.
How long does a visit take?
The guard-changing ceremony takes about five minutes. Allow more time if you plan to walk through Alexander Garden.
Is the memorial open at night?
The site is open around the clock.
