VDNKh (or ВНДХ) is situated in Ostankino suburb and presents itself as a former soviet Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy which includes a large complex of more than 50 buildings, amusement park, pavilions dedicated to economic sectors and former CIS countries, skating rink, museums, cafes and huge park area.
Back in the (Soviet) days it used to be the place to proudly exhibit the best of the USSR and it was impressive. Then in the 90s it was rented out to street vendors and became a market, which was kind of sad but totally resonant with the state of the progress back then. Then in 2000s it was revamped to become, once again, the place to show off whatever it is that Russia has to offer.
It is the biggest exhibition centre in Moscow and each year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions with a total attendance of about fourteen million people. It looks like a fantastic town with its own avenues, squares and gardens.
Not far from the park entrance is the famous Soviet sculpture by Vera Muhina – Worker and Collective Farm Girl. The gigantic figures of man and woman holding hammer and sickle became a Soviet symbol known all around the world.
VDNH is a perfect place for a family weekend or for those who are interested in soviet architecture as well as Russian culture of modern times. Furthemore, the VDNH website started to provide video broadcasting of major events and virtual tours at the exhibitions.
