Unfortunately I have no pictures of Lenin to post because photography was not allowed. In fact, nothing is allowed when you go see Lenin--no large bags, no cameras, no cell phones, no iPods, no huge coats, no talking, no smiling, no laughter, no enjoyment, nothing whatsoever than resembles a disrespect for authority or questioning of the Soviet state.
Lenin's Mausoleum is an awkward square-pyramid building situated among the majestic Kremlin and ornate St. Basil's, making it the most boring building on the block--unless you know what's in it. And it's free! Long lines ooze from the building and security is tight. Upon entering you get the feeling you're at Disney's Haunted Mansion since the whole place is dark and low lit with red bulbs. You descend a few staircases and then wrap around into the center of the building. At every turn a silent and stone-faced guard gestures towards the obvious direction you're supposed to take to continue.
The whole thing takes about 3 minutes. Lenin is excellently preserved in a glass coffin on its back slightly tilted towards the viewer. Eyes closed and balding, his lower half is draped in a black blanket that his arms rest on, both outstretched with the right hand in a fist. And yes, he did look slightly waxy. Once you exit the building you are led along a small garden at the back of the Kremlin with the tombs and busts of other various Soviet leaders. Stalin rests here, more as a disgrace than an honor since his body was removed after being embalmed and situated next to Lenin's for a mere 8 years.
Let's lighten the mood: Seve and I went to a Russian Folk Dance! Our coordinator was able to get us some cheap seats:
We loved it, and so did the audience--kids were up and dancing in the aisles. Wish I had a video of that.
