A modern map of Red Square.

To this day, Moscow’s Red Square plays a vital role in the expression of the city’s inhabitants. Previously known as Krasnaya Square, Red Square has been an integral part of Moscow and features many landmarks of Russian history, even being home to the monarchy, before this role was moved to St Petersburg by Peter the Great in 1703. It appears to be the most grandiose of all of Moscow’s squares, as it is described as a square ‘not exceeded, if equalled, in size, in singularity, in beauty, and in grandeur, by many in Europe; this is the Krasnaya Plostchad, or Beautiful Square’[1].

However, underneath the historical landmarks that now line the Square lies a Square that has been the backdrop for numerous riots, demonstrations, and protests since the 17^th Century. Red Square characterises the underlying tensions of Russia, culminating in revolution and riot, that eventually led to colossal changes in the political structure of the country. From early disturbances in the 17^th century, and dissidence that was quickly stamped out by the Tsars, we see under the Communists, similar acts that were also monitored and controlled carefully. Even now, Red Square still houses protests that pick out the flaws in the ruling political body. This theme is one that requires careful exploring in order to better understand Red Square’s function as a meeting ground for the inhabitants of Moscow to challenge their oppressors.