From the Archive: The 1990s Moscow Metro, in Photos
The 1990s were a time of huge change and upheaval for Russia — and especially for Moscow.
What was life like for Muscovites that decade? What did people look like? How were they dressed? Were there long lines and dour faces?
These photos of the iconic Moscow metro from The Moscow Times' archive offer answers to all of these questions. Here’s our time machine into the past:
What was life like for Muscovites that decade? What did people look like? How were they dressed? Were there long lines and dour faces?
These photos of the iconic Moscow metro from The Moscow Times' archive offer answers to all of these questions. Here’s our time machine into the past:
While decades have passed and nearly everything has changed, one thing is eternal in Moscow — ремонт (renovation).
Vladimir Filonov / MT
In the past, the so-called "people's palace" of Moscow more closely resembled that of St. Petersburg, where metro turnstiles operated with tokens. Today, you can top up your Troika card and swipe through the gates without ever touching physical money.
MT
Long lines also haven't disappeared, but today they lead to modern ticket kiosks with touch screens.
Mikhail Metzel / MT
"Be careful, the doors are closing!"
Vladimir Filonov / MT
By the 1990s, the metro had become a sprawling underground city with its own rules, rhythms and sights.
Mikhail Metzel / MT
Today, Moscow's metro is the busiest in the world. It looks like it was pretty busy back then, too.
MT
The metro's late-night hours are still the only times when people can find themselves alone in a station.
Vladimir Filonov / MT
