description Spasskaya Tower Overview
Spasskaya Tower is the principal ceremonial gate tower on the eastern wall of the Moscow Kremlin, overlooking Red Square. It was constructed in 1491 under the direction of the Italian architect Pietro Antonio Solari and was originally called Frolovskaya Tower. Its large chiming clock, commonly called the Kremlin clock, occupies the upper stages, while the tower's red star was installed during the Soviet period.
insights Ranking position
Spasskaya Tower ranks #6 of 102 in the Clock Tower ranking, behind Campanile di San Marco (Venice), ahead of Tower of the Winds (Athens).
help Spasskaya Tower FAQ
Can visitors enter the Moscow Kremlin through Spasskaya Tower?
Spasskaya Tower is the Kremlin's principal ceremonial gateway onto Red Square, but ordinary tourist access is generally routed through other gates. The passage has historically been reserved for official and ceremonial traffic.
Who built Spasskaya Tower?
The tower was built in 1491 by the Italian architect Pietro Antonio Solari during the reign of Ivan III. It was originally known as Frolovskaya Tower and later took its present name from an icon of the Savior.
Are the Kremlin chimes located inside Spasskaya Tower?
Yes. The tower houses the famous Kremlin clock and chimes, whose four large faces overlook the surrounding approaches and whose sound is closely associated with official Russian ceremonies.
What is the star on top of Spasskaya Tower made from?
The present Soviet-era star uses illuminated ruby-colored glass and replaced an imperial double-headed eagle in the 1930s. Similar stars crown several of the Kremlin's tallest towers.
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