(25 Jul 2021) LEAD IN:
An iconic train, in which Vladimir Lenin formally switched Russia's government from Moscow to St Petersburg after the country changed capitals, is celebrating it's 90th birthday this summer.
The Red Arrow, which still runs between St Petersburg and Moscow, was the first high classed train in the Soviet Union. (the first high classes train means the first ever train in country with a first class section)
STORY-LINE:
This expansive railway museum in St Petersburg is home to an important remnant of Russia's political history.
It's the main railway museum in the country and has one of the world's largest railway exhibitions on show.
A key attraction at the exhibition is the Red Arrow, which connects Moscow to St Petersburg.
It was the first high-classed train in the Soviet Union and this summer it celebrates its 90th birthday.
Pavel Dunayev is head of scientific and educational research at the Russian Railway Museum.
"There is no other similar train in our country with a history counting ninety years. This is the first and the oldest high-class train. The very train has many legends linked to the history of its creation," he says.
The train also provided the backdrop for a key moment in the tenure of former ruler Vladimir Lenin.
It was on the Red Arrow that he announced important government changes after the country's switched its capital from St Petersburg to Moscow.
The museum itself was opened in 2017 and includes an exceptional collection of rare and legendary steam trains, locomotives, electric locomotives, rail cars and other rolling stock.
Historical artefacts are on display with current operating models, interactive installations and temporary exhibition halls
It makes for an unusual and engaging museum space.
It has two buildings - an old locomotive depot building and an eye-catching modern building.
The buildings are connected with a suspension bridge to make a single structure.
The museum provides the perfect space for modern-day educational programs, children's activities, lectures and theme-based video screenings.
Representatives of the museum are also passionate about preserving the memory of railroad workers' contribution to the development of Russia.
"It's very cool. I would like all the museums to have such an approach, it amazingly revives everything around. We are very excited," says Kirill Zhigunov, who lives in St Petersburg.
The museum has been welcoming visitors from all around Russia.
"The creation of our museum in the new century, in the new millennium is a logical and natural step," says Pavel Dunayev.
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