Lenin’s Mausoleum is drawing long lines as visitors seek to see the leader’s remains before it closes for restoration. The Federal Protective Service reports the Mausoleum is currently operating on its regular schedule, but the closure date remains unknown. The building is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and weekends from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Visitors are waiting up to two hours to enter the Mausoleum, passing through metal detectors in groups of ten. Despite the wait, people are eager to visit, with many bringing their children.

Families are visiting the mausoleum as part of their children’s education. Others cited curiosity, historical significance, and tradition as reasons for visiting. One visitor from Europe stated they wanted their children to see Lenin for “general knowledge,” while an Iranian tourist expressed admiration for Russia’s respect for its history and leaders.

The upcoming restoration, prompted by the mausoleum’s deteriorating walls, is expected to cost over 19 million rubles, with the contract slated to end in 2027. Some visitors expressed concern that Lenin might be buried during the restoration.

The long queues were considered standard by guards. Some visitors who missed the 1:00 PM cutoff time expressed disappointment, with at least one family planning to return the following day.