Tsar Cannon

When you explore the grounds of the Moscow Kremlin, you cannot miss the Tsar Cannon, a monumental piece of Russian artillery history. Cast in bronze in 1586 by master bronze caster Andrey Chokhov, this massive bombarda holds the Guinness World Record as the largest bombard by caliber on Earth. Located just past the Kremlin Armory and facing the Kremlin Senate on Ivanovskaya Square, it stands as a legendary symbol of Russian power and metal-casting skill.

As you step up to this giant, you will see its impressive 17.5-foot barrel, weighing over 86,000 pounds, adorned with intricate relief images—including Tsar Fyodor Ivanovich on horseback—and historic inscriptions. The cannon rests on a stylized, three-wheeled cast-iron gun carriage added in 1835, which, along with the giant one-ton cast-iron cannonballs resting in front of it, serves a purely decorative purpose. Though created primarily to intimidate and project strength—and long rumored to have never been fired—specialists found gunpowder residue proving it was discharged at least once.

Positioned near the famed Tsar Bell, the Tsar Cannon offers you an unforgettable, close-up encounter with Russia's rich art and military heritage.

What to see at Tsar Cannon

• Guinness World Record holder for the world's largest bombard by caliber
• Detailed relief carving of Tsar Fyodor Ivanovich on horseback on the bronze barrel
• Decorative three-wheeled cast-iron gun carriage crafted in 1835
• Four oversized one-ton cast-iron cannonballs placed in front of the gun
• Historical position on Ivanovskaya Square near the massive Tsar Bell

Visiting tips

Look closely at the top and sides of the bronze barrel to spot the intricate 16th-century inscriptions dedicating the cannon to Tsar Fyodor Ivanovich and bronze master Andrey Chokhov.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Tsar Cannon is easy to reach on Moscow’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Moscow travel guide.