Moskva, Central Federal District, Ruska Federacija
Nestled at the Moskva River’s meandering bends, Moscow spans an impressive 2,511 square kilometers of the vast East European Plain. The city, distinguished for its intricate blend of natural landscapes and urban sprawl, extends an urban reach covering 6,154 square kilometers and boasts a metropolitan expanse surpassing 26,000 square kilometers.
The city’s terrain is marked by the gentle flows of the Moskva River and its tributaries, bridged and woven into the city’s fabric. Moscow’s elevation varies modestly yet is notable for its highest point at the Teplostan Upland, reaching 255 meters above sea level. The city’s area is characterized by significant green coverage, reinforcing its status as one of the greenest capitals in the world.
Population
As of the 2021 Census, Moscow’s population stood at over 13 million, affirming its position as the first in Russia and the sixth globally in terms of populous cities. The urban density is a staggering 5,080 per square kilometer, reflective of the city’s role as a central hub for the 18.8 million people residing in the urban area and the 21.5 million in the metro area.
Moscow’s inhabitants, known as Muscovites, are just one facet of Russia’s extensive ethnic tapestry. The city’s growth trend continues to rise, anchored by its historical gravitas and contemporary allure. The demographic structure is dynamic, influenced by internal migration and global movements, consolidating Moscow’s reputation as a melting pot of cultures.
Economic Vitality
The city’s economic profile is formidable, with a Gross Regional Product totaling €281 billion. Moscow dominates the Russian economy, standing tall as a central player in the European financial sector and commanding one of the largest urban economies globally. It is home to the Moscow International Business Center, a prominent financial hub and the epicenter of Europe’s tallest skyscrapers.
Moscow’s infrastructural framework is comprehensive, featuring a vast network of public transport, including four international airports, multiple railway terminals, and the Moscow Metro – Europe’s busiest subway system. The city’s roadways, monorails, and tram lines contribute to its intricate web of transit routes, facilitating seamless movement across the metropolis.
Cultural and Architectural Grandeur
The Red Square stands as the vanguard of Moscow’s architectural wonders, flanked by the iconic Saint Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin. UNESCO World Heritage Sites pepper the cityscape, each narrating the country’s layered past. The Bolshoi Theatre and the Moscow State University are but two of the many cultural beacons that illuminate Moscow’s intellectual and artistic prestige. The city’s dedication to maintaining a balance between urban development and ecological preservation is evident in its sprawling parks. Over 40% of Moscow’s territory is dedicated to lush parks and gardens, offering sanctuaries of tranquility amidst the urban rush.