Moscow Canal

The Moscow Canal is an artificial waterway running through the northern part of the city, linking the Moskva to the Volga. The route passes through forested areas and open terrain, lined with lock structures and bridges that control the flow of water.

Construction began in 1932 and ended five years later, creating an extensive network of dams and pumping stations. The completed system fundamentally changed the city's water supply and created new transport connections at the same time.

The Russian name Kanal imeni Moskvy reflects how the capital gained direct access to wider routes. On weekends, locals walk along the waterfront promenades and watch cargo and passenger vessels move between the locks.

Walking or cycling paths run along the banks, especially accessible near the docks and parks. Most viewpoints are located near the locks, where you can watch vessels passing through.

The system lifts vessels by a total of 38 meters (125 feet) as they move from the Volga level to the Moskva level. Some locks are deep enough to accommodate large cargo ships and river cruise boats, which take several minutes to pass through.

Location: Moscow

Inception: 1932

Official opening: July 15, 1937

Part of: Unified Deep Water System of European Russia

GPS coordinates: 56.71667,37.13333

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:04