Russia’s Future Architectural Landmark: National Centre to Open in 2029

By Yamikani Simutowe, in Moscow, Russia

Russia’s new National Centre building, described as a future architectural landmark and a symbol of modern Russia, will open in November 2029.

The complex, designed to host gatherings of up to 10,000 people in any weather, will span more than 205,000 square metres and be surrounded by a landscaped park.

Director General of the National Centre Russia, Natalia Virtuozova, disclosed this at the International Press Centre during an exhibition session with journalists drawn from different African countries to cover the 8th GECF Summit and the 3rd Russia–Africa Summit.

Virtuozova explained that the new National Centre will incorporate traditional symbols and patterns representing Russia’s many peoples.

She said the Centre will feature multimedia facades and an adaptive roof that reflects ongoing events, while a panoramic amphitheatre will accommodate gatherings of up to 10,000 people in any weather.

President Vladimir Putin launched construction of the new space on 26 March, highlighting the country’s creative potential, multinational culture and commitment to innovation.

Virtuozova noted that the modern public space will unite exposition, cultural, educational and business venues. The project is being implemented jointly with the Moscow Urban Development Complex, and the opening is scheduled for late 2029.

Speaking about the current National Centre, established two years ago, Virtuozova said the facility is one of the country’s leading public spaces, hosting major scientific, cultural and business events and serving as a platform for international dialogue.

She outlined the Centre’s broad range of activities, from large-scale expositions and educational programmes to business forums and global initiatives.

She said the Centre was created to inspire pride in Russia and showcase the country’s achievements.

“Business, educational and cultural events take place here — around 15 events every week, all of them completely free of charge for visitors,” she said.

She highlighted the popularity of the flagship exposition Journey Across Russia, which presents the natural, cultural, historical and technological richness of all federal districts.

Virtuozova also outlined current projects at the Centre, including temporary expositions such as The Birth of Scale, A Book of Fairy Tales and Geography Lessons, which attract visitors from across Russia and abroad.

She pointed to the Department Store RUSSIA, a space blending tradition and modernity through folk arts, crafts and products from leading Russian manufacturers. The Centre’s Gastronomic Rows — divided into East, North, West and South — offer regional culinary experiences.

The Centre’s business programme is built on multilevel dialogue across federal, regional and international platforms.

Virtuozova further said the National Centre RUSSIA represents Russia on the international stage, sharing ideas about the enduring values of a new world order founded on justice, equality and mutual respect.

The International Press Centre at the National Centre RUSSIA will operate around the clock until 30 October. The forum has brought together more than 200 participants, including executives and journalists from major African media outlets and bloggers.

Earlier, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Russia is a country of great achievements — in science, sport, culture and space — and possesses immense potential.

Russia spans 17,234,031 square kilometres, covering 11 time zones, four major climate zones, and with over different language ls spoken across the population.

According to Zakharova, over 150 ethnic groups, including a large Muslim community, live together in harmony, united by shared values.

“It is a country of great achievements in science, sport, culture and space, and one with immense potential

“Russia has a 1,000‑year‑long history, where cultures converge and traditions are carefully preserved. Spiritual values are deeply embedded in the Russian soul,” she said.