science · 15 May 1935 · 89 years ago
In 1935, the Moscow metro opened, transporting an estimated 285,000 people that day. Its subterranean spaces still feature chandeliers, marble, mozaics, murals and heroic statutes. Tsar Nicholas II had the first designs drawn up in 1902, intended to rival the Underground which was already established in London, as well as services in Paris and Berlin. Revolution and war delayed any construction until Joseph Stalin set it in motion with new plans in 1931. The first line was built between Sokolniki and Dvorets Sovetov (renamed Kropotkinskaya in the 1950s). During WW II, the spacious stations served as shelters during Nazi bombing. Since first opening, expansions have been ongoing, with more planned into the future. Its subterranean spaces still have original chandeliers, marble, mozaics, murals, stained glass and heroic statutes.
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