Inside the Moscow Kremlin, the Annunciation Cathedral was the private chapel of Russian rulers. Its painted walls and pillars, ornate iconostasis and historic religious objects make it a rewarding stop on Cathedral Square. Look closely at the icons and the monumental painting depicting Ivan the Terrible’s reign. The cathedral is smaller than some of the other churches on the square, so you can see its interior in a short visit before continuing to the nearby Kremlin sights.
A chapel for Russia’s rulers
The Annunciation Cathedral stands on the southern side of Cathedral Square in the Moscow Kremlin, across from the Cathedral of the Archangel. It served as the private chapel of the Grand Princes and tsars, linking the building to the personal religious life of Russia’s rulers.
The cathedral was commissioned by Ivan III as a royal chapel. Its role continued through the tsars who followed him, until the Russian Revolution. That history gives the church a distinct place among the Kremlin’s collection of cathedrals.
Frescoes, icons and the interior
Inside, frescoes cover the walls and pillars, and an ornate iconostasis forms a focal point. The church also displays historic icons and other religious objects. Look for the monumental painting depicting the reign of Ivan the Terrible.
The interior is smaller than those of some other churches on Cathedral Square, but its paintings and icons reward a close look. Multilingual information sheets help identify selected items and provide context as you move through the cathedral.
Planning a visit on Cathedral Square
The Annunciation Cathedral is one of several churches you can visit on Cathedral Square. Access is included with the general Cathedral Square ticket, which also covers other churches in the group. Visiting early in the day or on a weekday can help you avoid some of the crowds.
Allow about 15 minutes to view the interior. The cathedral’s location makes it easy to include alongside the other buildings on the square.
FAQ
Where is the Annunciation Cathedral?
It is inside the Moscow Kremlin, on the southern side of Cathedral Square, across from the Cathedral of the Archangel.
Is entry included with a Cathedral Square ticket?
Yes. Access to the Annunciation Cathedral is included with the general Cathedral Square ticket.
How long should I spend inside?
About 15 minutes is enough for a short visit to view the interior.
What should I look for inside the cathedral?
See the frescoed walls and pillars, the iconostasis, historic icons and religious objects, and a monumental painting depicting Ivan the Terrible’s reign.
