The Tsar Bell and Tsar Cannon are gigantic examples of masterful Russian artistry. Visitors are drawn by their size and beauty. See them first-hand to appreciate their epic scale.
The Tsar Cannon was constructed in 1586 and was the brainchild of Andrei Chokhov, a renowned cannon specialist. As the name suggests, it was built at the behest of the tsar at the time, Feodor Iannovich. Marvel at its 35-inch (890-millimeter) caliber, thought to be one of the biggest cannons in the world. However, it has never been used. Since 1960, it has rested quietly in Ivanovskaya Square.
Inspect the detailed friezes and ornate embellishments that adorn the cannon. Try to spot Tsar Feodor, who is depicted riding a horse. The cannon also includes dummy cannon balls and a decadently designed cannon carriage.
After taking photos of the giant cannon, turn to the bell, which is located near Ivan the Great Bell Tower. This colossal bell was made for Empress Anna Ivanovna and was cast in 1735. Get close to fully appreciate its huge scale. It measures 20 feet (6 meters) in height and its diameter is 22 feet (7 meters). Like the Tsar Cannon, it has a reputation for being one of the biggest of its kind. It is also known for having a piece missing, due to cold water being spilled on it after a fire, leading to a piece cracking off. It was put on display, along with its missing slice, in 1836.
Examine the decorative Baroque-style reliefs on the bell to see Empress Anna and Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich, and look for a statement describing its story on its exterior. Other famous faces depicted on it include Jesus, Mary, angels and various religious figures. Despite, or perhaps because of, its incomplete nature, the bell draws visitors eager to get a photograph with this piece of Russian royal history.
If you want to see the Tsar Cannon and the Tsar Bell, remember that the Kremlin charges an entrance fee and is closed on Thursdays. To get to the complex, ride to the Aleksandrovsky Sad subway station.
