Inside Kremlin: The Years That Led To The Fall Of The Soviet Union | Heart Of The Kremlin | Timeline

The script opens with a description of the Kremlin's historical significance and its role as a fortress and symbol of security since the 12th century. It introduces the specially chosen soldiers of the Kremlin Garrison who carry out the duty of guarding the site, undeterred by weather conditions. The narrative also touches on the architectural ensemble within the Kremlin's walls, including government buildings, barracks, palaces, museums, and religious structures. The term 'Kremlin' meaning Fortress is explained, and its role in protecting leaders for the past 70 years is highlighted. The script mentions an official demonstration on the anniversary of the revolution and the first-time access granted to film inside one of the columns, providing a unique perspective on the event.

This paragraph delves into the religious and cultural aspects of the Kremlin, focusing on the Cathedral of the Assumption, the oldest of the Kremlin's three cathedrals, which is now a museum. The speaker, a curator, discusses the preservation of the cathedral's masterpieces and the challenges of maintaining them for future generations. The script also mentions the Kremlin's other attractions, such as the largest cannon and bell in the world, and the Palace of Congresses, where the New Year's children's party is held. The narrative touches on the invisible lines that visitors may not cross and the role of the KGB in maintaining order.

The script shifts focus to the children visiting the Kremlin, under the watchful eye of the KGB. It assures that children cannot get lost within the premises and that the Kremlin will keep a good eye on them. The narrative then moves to the queues at Lenin's Mausoleum, describing it as the main queue in the country and reflecting on the preservation of Lenin's body in a 'pagan temple.' The script also touches on the myths and legends surrounding the Kremlin and the public's perception of its history.

This paragraph discusses the political power dynamics within the Kremlin, from the Senate building's grandest room, the Sir Glov Call, used for various ritual occasions, to the Supreme Soviet in session in the Brazilian building. The narrative highlights the new men in the Kremlin who are more focused on realpolitik than fairy tales. It also touches on the public demonstrations calling for an end to the Communist monopoly of power and the challenges faced by political commentators in covering Soviet politics.

The script reflects on the past, particularly the time of Stalin, who was the last leader to live in the Kremlin, completely sealed off from the outside world. It recounts the events of Stalin's death and the public's disbelief in his mortality. The narrative also touches on the nationalist violence and the KGB's daily operations, as well as the grand Kremlin Palace's significance in Soviet history, including the reception of Yuri Gagarin and the awarding of the Order of Saint George.

This paragraph highlights the dual nature of the Kremlin, symbolizing both military power and authority, as well as a mystical and magical aspect of Russian heritage. The script describes the graduation day of the Cadets at the Kremlin and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the Kremlin wall. It also touches on the Kremlin's less-seen aspects, such as the Tearing Palace and the forbidden corners, and the official line on the conservation of the Kremlin's historic buildings.

The script discusses the return of religious services to the Kremlin, with the ringing of church bells over Cathedral Square for the first time since the revolution. It describes the celebration of the liturgy by the new patriarch and the Kremlin authorities allowing the return of the Servants of God. The narrative also touches on the historical significance of the Kremlin as the center of the Russian Orthodox Church and the current status of the Cathedral of the Assumption.

This paragraph focuses on the royal legacy of the Kremlin and its historical ties to European royal houses. It describes the visit of Princess Anne to the Armory Museum, where she is shown the royal treasury of her distant relatives, including the Throne of Catherine the Great. The script also discusses the importance of the English silver collection in the museum and the potential for restoring close links with European royal houses.

The script provides a glimpse into the daily life within the Kremlin, from the buffet lunch for the Supreme Soviet delegates to the special delivery of books in the lobby. It also touches on the political maneuvering within the Soviet government, with the Bulgarian prime minister's visit and the Russian Parliament's president addressing the government's problems. The narrative reflects on the potential for change within the Communist Party and the uncertainty surrounding the party's future.

The final paragraph contemplates the future of the Kremlin, questioning to whom it should belong—whether it should remain a symbol of the military, the church, the tsars, or become a place for the people. The script ends with a reflection on the saying 'above Russia is the Kremlin, above the Kremlin are the heavens,' pondering whether Russia will ever see the heavens and the potential for change within the country.