Ostankino Tower
Ostankino Tower is a television and communication tower in the Ostankino district of Moscow that rises over 500 meters above the city. The concrete and steel construction has a slender cone shape with steel cables wrapped around it for stability, and the upper section houses glass-enclosed observation decks and a revolving restaurant.
Construction began in 1963 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the October Revolution and was completed in 1967, with the design inspired by a rocket engine. From 1967 to 1974 the tower held the title of the world's tallest free-standing structure, until the CN Tower in Canada took over that record.
The name Ostankino recalls the old village that once stood here before the city grew in this direction. Today residents use the surrounding parks for walks and picnics, while the tower serves as a landmark when they give directions to visitors.
The observation decks offer wide views over Moscow and the surrounding area on clear days, though the upper deck opens only when weather is good and wind is calm. The elevators are fast and comfortable, and you can purchase tickets online or at the entrance before heading up.
Every year a stair race is held where participants climb over a thousand steps from ground level to the observation deck. The fastest runners finish in less than ten minutes, even though the stairwell is narrow, steep and without natural light.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
