Lubyanka Square Moscow
A historically charged square in Moscow, dominated by the FSB building and a memorial to Gulag victims.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more solemn atmosphere
Lubyanka Square Moscow
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more solemn atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historically charged square in Moscow, dominated by the FSB building and a memorial to Gulag victims.
"A place of profound historical weight, where the past looms large."
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the square, especially near the FSB building. :dress:
Security Awareness
Be aware of your surroundings; security is present. Avoid lingering too long directly in front of the FSB building. :police_car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
FSB Headquarters
The imposing, historic building that once housed the KGB, now the FSB. A symbol of Soviet-era power and intrigue.
Solovetsky Stone Memorial
A stark granite boulder from the Solovki prison camp, honoring victims of political repression.
Central Children's Store
A grand Soviet-era department store, now a modern shopping center with a viewing deck.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Lubyanka Square
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the square, especially near the FSB building. :dress:
Security Awareness
Be aware of your surroundings; security is present. Avoid lingering too long directly in front of the FSB building. :police_car:
Learn the History
Understanding the square's past enhances the visit. Read up on the KGB and Gulag history. :books:
Photo Opportunities
Capture the architecture, but be discreet with photography near official buildings. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the square, especially near the FSB building. :dress:
Security Awareness
Be aware of your surroundings; security is present. Avoid lingering too long directly in front of the FSB building. :police_car:
Learn the History
Understanding the square's past enhances the visit. Read up on the KGB and Gulag history. :books:
Photo Opportunities
Capture the architecture, but be discreet with photography near official buildings. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lubyanka Square is a historically significant and architecturally imposing site in Moscow. Visitors are struck by the solemnity of the Solovetsky Stone memorial and the imposing presence of the FSB building. While some find the area to be a powerful reminder of Soviet history, others note the increased security presence and the need for respectful behavior.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lubyanka Square is easily accessible by Moscow Metro. The Lubyanka station (Sokolnicheskaya Line, Red Line 1) is directly on the square. You can also walk from nearby stations like Kuznetsky Most (Tagansko-Krasnopresnenskaya Line, Purple Line 7) or Teatralnaya (Zamoskvoretskaya Line, Green Line 2).
Yes, Lubyanka Square is centrally located. It's a short walk to Red Square, the Bolshoi Theatre, and the historic Kitay-Gorod district, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
The square itself is best explored on foot. For longer distances or to reach other parts of the city, the Moscow Metro is highly efficient and recommended. Taxis are also available but can be subject to traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lubyanka Square is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. You can walk around and view the exteriors of the buildings freely.
As a public square, Lubyanka Square is accessible 24/7. However, the Solovetsky Stone memorial is best viewed during daylight hours. The Central Children's Store has its own operating hours.
The Solovetsky Stone memorial is an outdoor monument and has no entrance fee. It's a place for quiet reflection.
No, the FSB headquarters is a government building and is not open to the public for tours or visits. Photography directly in front of it may be restricted.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the imposing FSB building (from a distance), the Solovetsky Stone, and the architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the Central Children's Store. The view from the top of the Children's Store offers a panoramic perspective.
While general photography is usually permitted, be cautious and respectful when photographing the FSB building. Avoid pointing your camera directly at security personnel or sensitive areas. Some sources advise against prolonged photography of the main facade. :camerawithflash:
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating a more dramatic atmosphere. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing for clearer shots. :sunriseovermountains:
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Lubyanka Square is historically significant as the site of the former KGB headquarters, a symbol of Soviet repression. The Solovetsky Stone memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the millions who suffered under political persecution during the Soviet era. :scales:
The Lubyanka building, originally built for the Rossiya Insurance Company, became infamous as the headquarters of the Soviet secret police, including the Cheka, NKVD, and KGB. It was a center for interrogations, executions, and political imprisonment. :closedlockwith_key:
The Solovetsky Stone is a granite boulder brought from the Solovki prison camp, one of the most notorious Gulag camps. It was erected in 1990 as a memorial to the victims of political repression in the Soviet Union, a powerful symbol of remembrance. :memorial_stone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to discuss the historical significance of the FSB building and the Solovetsky Stone with older children in an age-appropriate manner, focusing on lessons of remembrance and peace. 🏛️ History Buffs
📸 Photographers
Aim for early mornings or late afternoons for the best light and fewer crowds, allowing for more creative compositions. Be mindful of photography restrictions near the FSB building. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shadow of the Lubyanka
Today, the FSB continues to operate from this historic edifice. While public access is strictly prohibited, its presence on the square is a constant reminder of Russia's complex past. Visitors often feel a palpable sense of history when standing before it, contemplating the events that unfolded within its walls. The sheer scale and architectural style of the building contribute to its intimidating aura, making it a focal point of historical interest and a subject of much discussion among those who visit the square.
Remembering the Victims: The Solovetsky Stone
Many visitors find the Solovetsky Stone to be one of the most moving elements of Lubyanka Square. Its simplicity belies its profound significance, offering a space for quiet contemplation and reflection on the human cost of totalitarian regimes. It's a place where the abstract concept of historical atrocities becomes grounded in a physical monument, encouraging visitors to connect with the past on a personal level. The presence of this memorial is crucial for understanding the full historical narrative of the square.
A Glimpse of Soviet Commerce: Central Children's Store
One of the most popular features for visitors is the observation deck, offering panoramic views of Lubyanka Square and the surrounding cityscape. It provides an excellent vantage point for photography and for appreciating the scale of the square from above. It's a place where families can enjoy a more lighthearted experience, contrasting with the more somber historical significance of other parts of the square.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit