One of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks, Red Square is recognized worldwide for its grand architecture, cultural significance, and historical importance. It is the heart of Moscow, home to landmarks such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum. Despite its fame and central role in Russian history, the name “Red Square“ often raises the question: Why is it called Red Square?
The name “Red Square” has both historical and linguistic roots that reflect the city’s past, and its meaning might not be as straightforward as one might think. In this article, we’ll explore the history and symbolism behind the name Red Square and clear up some common misconceptions.
1. The Linguistic Origin of “Red”
The name “Red Square” comes from the Russian word “красный” (krasny), which can be translated as “red” in English. However, the word “krasny” in Old Russian does not simply refer to the color red. In fact, the word “krasny” historically had a broader meaning, which included “beautiful”, “splendid”, or even “sacred”. This linguistic evolution is key to understanding the true meaning behind the name.
In the early days, “krasny” was used to describe things that were considered beautiful, important, or magnificent. For example, Krasnaya Street (now Tverskaya Street) also referred to as “beautiful” or “splendid.” It wasn’t until the 17th century that the modern meaning of “red” came into widespread use.
So, while today we associate “Red Square” with the color red, the original meaning of “krasny” referred to the square’s beauty and importance in the city, rather than its color.
Key Takeaway:
- The name “Red Square” comes from the Russian word “krasny”, which historically meant “beautiful” or “splendid”, not necessarily red in color.
2. The Square’s Role in Russian History
2.1. Red Square as the Heart of Moscow
Red Square has long been the center of Moscow’s social, political, and religious life. It has served as the main marketplace, the venue for royal ceremonies, and the site of religious processions. For centuries, it was the place where major events, festivals, and celebrations were held.
It is no surprise that the square would be associated with the idea of beauty and grandeur. The historic importance of Red Square as a gathering place for the people of Moscow likely contributed to the choice of the word “krasny”, suggesting that the square was considered a beautiful and monumental location within the city.
2.2. Evolution of the Square’s Name
Before becoming Red Square, the area was known by a few different names, including “Torg” (meaning “marketplace”) and “Poklonny Dvor” (which roughly translates to “Place of Bowing”, due to the bowing of merchants and citizens in front of the Tsar). In the 15th century, the term “Red Square” began to be used more consistently to describe the area, aligning with the square’s transformation into a central space for both the city’s rulers and its citizens.
By the 17th century, the association with the word “krasny” as a descriptor for something beautiful or sacred became more common, which aligned with the square’s new symbolic role in the Russian Empire.
Key Takeaway:
- The square’s name developed as a natural evolution of the word “krasny”, which originally meant “beautiful” or “splendid”, reflecting the square’s importance in Russian culture and history.
3. Misconceptions About the Name
A common misconception about Red Square is that it was named after the color red, possibly because of its association with the Communist Revolution or the Soviet Union. However, this is not the case. Although the square did indeed become a symbol of the Soviet regime after the Russian Revolution of 1917, the name Red Square predates the rise of communism by several centuries.
In fact, the square was already called Red Square long before the Bolshevik Revolution. The association with communism and the color red may have reinforced the symbolic power of the name during the Soviet era, but the square’s name originally referred to its beauty, not the political ideology that would later be linked to the color.
Key Takeaway:
- The name Red Square has nothing to do with communism or the Soviet flag’s red color. It originated as a reference to the square’s beauty and significance.
4. Symbolism and Significance Today
Even today, Red Square continues to serve as a symbol of Russia’s political power and historical legacy. It remains the site of major celebrations and political events, such as the Victory Day Parade, and continues to be a central location for both locals and visitors. The square is also home to some of the most iconic buildings in Russia, including the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the State Historical Museum.
The name Red Square today carries with it a dual symbolism:
- Historical beauty and significance: A reflection of its central role in Russian culture and history.
- Political power: A reminder of its significance as the place where political leaders and revolutionary movements shaped the course of Russia’s history.
Key Takeaway:
- Red Square continues to symbolize Russia’s cultural richness and political power, serving as a reminder of both the historical beauty and the monumental political events that have occurred there.
Conclusion
While the name Red Square may initially suggest a connection to the color red, its true origins are rooted in the Old Russian word “krasny”, which originally meant beautiful or splendid. The name reflects the square’s historical role as a symbol of beauty, cultural importance, and grandeur, rather than a reference to the color red.
Today, Red Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in Moscow, holding deep historical and political significance. Whether you are exploring its famous landmarks, enjoying a peaceful moment in the square, or witnessing a major celebration, the name Red Square continues to embody the beauty and power of Russia’s rich history.
