gum

GUM

It was not too difficult to find the GUM department store.  It extends for two city blocks along the eastern side of the square.  This glitzy 19th-century shopping mall was once the largest of its kind in Europe.  It sits on the same site where market stalls had existed since the 15th century.  It is now privately owned and has about 200 high-end boutiques.  

It was decked out with bright lights, Christmas trees and beautiful window displays.

There are no shortage of shoppers enjoying the warmth inside.

It consists of three parallel halls faced with polished marble and covered with a glass roof designed by engineering genius Vladmir Shukhov.  The three floors are connected by elegant walkways.  It is filled with boutiques, cafes and ice cream parlors.

You can always find a bride and groom posing for wedding pictures.

This is how you buy an ice cream cone.  Look at the list, pick out your flavor and she plucks out your cone with tongs -- pre-scooped.

Carol took a liking to this store; beautiful fabrics, sweaters, coats, and matching bags and shoes  -- from Italy.

A new idea.  

And would only take one box for storage!