Among the remaining contenders for the 2012 Olympics, Moscow was the most recent host to the games. Political tensions overshadowed the 1980 Olympics, as most Western nations boycotted them. The desire to hold a full-fledged Olympics has been cited by Russian officials as a major stimulus to the current bid. The sporting events of 1980 also left a wide-ranging infrastructure in place that will contribute the essential components in 2012.
During the formal bid presentation in November, the plan outlined a vision of a compact Olympic quarter, located entirely within the city limits. Most venues are spread out in five complexes within the radius of about 6 miles along the sinuous Moskva (Moscow) River. A group of planners and architects from Studio #2 of Mosproekt-4 Institute is responsible for the concept. The river contributes not only the spatial axis to the scheme, but also serves as the main transportation artery, where spectators can be ferried to sites from 70 passenger piers. The so-called “Olympic River Concept” is also an effort to showcase the city. The Moskva meanders for about 45 miles from the northwest to the southeast of the city, unfolding along the historic center around the Kremlin to the edifices of the Soviet period.
You have 0 complimentary articles remaining.
Unlimited access + premium benefits for as low as $1.99/month.