This truly unique facility, a cold war relic, sometimes dubbed as the Moscow secret catacombs, was created shortly after the WW2 to provide shelter in case of a direct nuclear bomb strike. This Stalin bunker is huge in size and consists of four massive underground halls each the size of a Moscow metro station connected by a maze of tunnels. A solid concrete shaft protected by 2-ton doors takes you 65 meters (200ft) downstairs, to the level of the Circular line of the Moscow Metro. Today, this facility is declassified and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
We are happy to offer you a guided bunker tour around this facility, one of the very few Cold War bunkers that have been not only declassified but made accessible to public. The “Declassified Now” Tour includes exploring the tunnels and checkpoints, a visit to the hall No. 4, watching a documentary showcasing the events that led to the Cuban Missile Crisis, and nuclear missile launch and bomb strike alarm re-enactment. In the Bunker 42 museum you will have a chance to see the models of US and USSR bomb carriers, the first Soviet nuclear bomb model, period uniforms and communications equipment.
For MICE programs in Moscow we are happy to offer a variety of options including Bunker 42 tours combining different itineraries and quest ideas, on-sight catering ranging from fine cuisine to typical Red Army food such as buckwheat with canned beef, and entertainment, for example, Red Army Choir. Please feel free to contact us at julia@iwir.ru.
SPECIAL NOTES: The facility is accessible by a 18-storey staircase (~300 steps). An elevator is available but it is small and usually used to accommodate people with special needs. Please make sure you wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and taking a bottle of water with you is also a good idea. Since the Bunker 42 is located well below the surface, the temperature downstairs may feel chilly in summer. Please make sure you carry with you a scarf, vest or light jacket to feel comfortable during the tour.
This bunker is also known as Cold War Bunker or Bunker 42, there is another bunker in Moscow officially known as Stalin Bunker in another location - not to be confused.
TOUR OPTIONS:
Option 1: Join a tour group led by an English-speaking Bunker 42 guide (group size up to 50 people, no radioguide system with earphones). Pick-up by hotel for this option is not possible;
Option 2: Tour with a private guide – you will be assisted by a private guide and join a group tour delivered in Russian or English, your guide will interpret the tour into any foreign language you request.
Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish and other foreign languages.
