Tretyakov Drive, Moscow

One of the most expensive shopping centers in the world, Tretyakovsky Proyezd is located in the renowned Kitay-Gorod business district in Moscow. Located just minutes from the Kremlin, this hub is home to upscale stores Ferrari, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Dolce and Gabbana, Gucci, Prada, and Bentley Motors Limited, and many more boutiques, restaurants, and offices. Tretyakovsky Proyezd is also famous for being located on one of the shortest roads in the world.

Local folklore is that the Tretyakov brothers conceived the archway in the 19th century so that they enter the business district without paying taxes. At that time, all vendors had to pay taxes before entering Kitay-Gorod since they could only enter the district through Kitay Gorod gates. The gate also alleviated traffic jams on a nearby street. Architect Alexander Kaminsky designed the archway.

Tretyakovsky Proyezd is one of the few surviving structures that surrounded 19th century Moscow. Although it fell into disrepair for many years, recent renovation projects have restored it to its former glory. In addition to the upscale retailers, other reasons to visit include: an authentic tropical garden, one of the largest Gucci stores in the world, art galleries, a swimming pool, and daily fashion shows.