Borovitskaya Tower, Gate tower at Moscow Kremlin, Russia
Borovitskaya Tower is a gate tower at Moscow Kremlin that rises about 54 meters with a distinctive stepped design across multiple tiers. It is topped by a ruby star that crowns the structure.
Italian architect Pietro Antonio Solari built the tower in 1490 during the Kremlin's transformation from white stone to red brick. This construction was part of a major renewal of the fortress walls.
The tower's name comes from an ancient pine forest that once covered the Borovitsky Hill where Moscow began. This naming reflects the natural landscape that shaped the area before urban development.
The tower contains the only active entrance gate to the Kremlin, serving as the passage for the presidential motorcade and Armoury visitors. It is wise to check current access conditions before planning your visit.
French invasion explosions in 1812 damaged the tower's spire severely. Architect Bove restored it between 1816 and 1819, rebuilding the damaged top.
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