Why St. Basil's Cathedral is special
The edifice sits proudly on the south end of Red Square in Moscow, Russia. It may look like the architectural equivalent of "too many cooks spoil the broth", but the design succeeds. Just ask the tens of millions of people who have relished seeing St. Basil's Cathedral.
Even the floor plan is unusual. St. Basil's Cathedral, not gigantic to begin with, houses nine distinct chapels. Each has its own uniquely shaped, hued and patterned dome.

How it evolved
St. Basil's Cathedral was built in the 1550's by Ivan the Terrible to commemorate his victory over the Tartars in Kazan in Central Asia. Originally, it was white sided with gilded domes. The colorful patterns on the domes were not added until about a century after the cathedral was erected.Today, St. Basil's Cathedral is a museum, no longer a place of worship.

Deterioration
Regrettably, the interior of St. Basil's Cathedral badly deteriorated. Some say the decline began in 1812 when Napoleon's cavalry lodged their horses within the cathedral. Others say it was the result of 20th century neglect. Fortunately, a project is currently afoot to restore St Basil's interior.

What leading travel books say about St. Basil’s Cathedral
St. Basil's Cathedral's exterior appearance is a riot of pinnacles, tent roofs, onion domes and spade-shaped gables.
Exploring Moscow
Fodor's

For many people, the picture of St. Basil's Cathedral has become a potent symbol of Russia.
Moscow
APA Insight Guides