Red Fortress

“[An] extraordinary history . . . mixes politics, history, architecture and biography to lay bare the secret heart of Russia's history. . . . a delight to read.” -The Wall Street Journal

The Moscow Kremlin is the heart of the Russian state, a fortress whose blood-red walls have witnessed more than eight hundred years of political drama and extraordinary violence. It has been the seat of a priestly monarchy, a worldly church and the Soviet Union; it has served as a crossroads for diplomacy, trade, and espionage; it has survived earthquakes, devastating fires, and at least three revolutions. From Ivan the Terrible to Vladimir Putin, generations of Russian leaders have sought to use the Kremlin to legitimize their vision of statehood.

Drawing on a dazzling array of sources from hitherto unseen archives and rare collections, renowned historian Catherine Merridale traces the full history of this enigmatic fortress. More than an absorbing history of Russia's most famous landmark, Red Fortress uses the Kremlin as a unique lens, bringing into focus the evolution of Russia's culture and the meaning of its politics.

“One of the best popular histories of Russia in any language.” -Times Literary Supplement

“A splendidly rich portrait.” -The Economist

“A tour de force.” -Financial Times

“A brilliant meditation on Russian history and the myths with which the Russians have sought to console themselves.” -The Observer

“Simply superb.” -Simon Sebag Montefiore, The Telegraph

“Exhilarating.” -The Guardian

“Immensely readable.” -The Sunday Times

“An insightful, fascinating tale” -Publishers Weekly (starred review)