Visitors are experiencing wait times of up to two hours to enter Lenin’s Mausoleum on Red Square, as the site prepares to close for restoration. The specific date for the closure remains unconfirmed, although it was anticipated immediately following the 155th anniversary of Lenin’s birth on April 22nd.

The mausoleum is currently open to the public Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and weekends, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The Federal Security Service stated that operations are continuing on a standard schedule in the interim.

Many visitors are drawn by a sense of tradition, considering a visit to Lenin’s Mausoleum an essential Moscow experience. Some visitors are motivated by historical interest, seeking to connect with the past and share it with their children.

Visitors from across Russia and even abroad, including families and tourists, are lining up to view Lenin’s preserved body. One father from Samara explained he wanted to show his children the mausoleum because it would soon be covered in their school curriculum. A woman from Europe, originally from Russia, mentioned she wanted her children to see Lenin for “general development.” Sina, a tourist from Iran, expressed admiration for Russia’s respect for its history and leaders.

The upcoming restoration, aimed at addressing the dilapidated condition of the mausoleum’s walls, is a significant factor driving the increased visitor numbers. The restoration project is estimated to cost over 19 million rubles, with a completion deadline set for 2027.

The security detail indicated the long queues were “normal.” Visitors pass through metal detectors in groups of ten before entering.

At 1:03 PM, the mausoleum closed its doors, leaving some visitors who had waited in line disappointed. One Moscow family, who had waited nearly two hours, planned to return the following day.