Red Square is located in the center of Moscow, which is the capital of Russia. On the banks of the Moscow River, it is the oldest square in the city, and is a witness to many important historical events. During important Russian holidays it is a place for mass gatherings, large celebrations, and military parades. It is an famous tourist place of interest as well. Nothing can surpass Red Square as the most famous square in Moscow. Due to the fact that the main roads of Moscow all begin at Red Square and extend to all parts, Red Square is seen as the central plaza of Moscow. The original name of Red Square was “krasnyi” which means “market.” The predecessor of this was the late 15th Century area for “Commerce and Industry Area Outside the City” created by Ivan III. In 1517 there was a large fire in the square, and thereafter for a period of time it was called the “Fire Square.” In 1662 the name was changed to “Red Square” meaning “the Beautiful Square.” The surface area of Red Square is 91,000 sq. m., in the shape of a rectangle oriented north to south, with the eastern and western sides being narrower, with an approximate length of 695 meters and width of 130 meters. After the 17th century, this square became the business center of Moscow, and an important site where the Tsar’s important governmental edicts were publicly read and where returning victorious troops were inspected. After the victory of the October revolution in 1917, Moscow became the capital of Russia, and Red Square became the site where national large-scale ceremonies, assemblies, and military parades were held.