Saransk was founded in 1641 as a fortress with the name Saransk Ostrozhek (from the word sara - swampy floodplain). The fortress was built of wooden logs, square in plan with towers at the corners, in the center of the walls and with one tower inside.
By the 18th century, the wooden fortress was dilapidated, the city turned from a defense city into a trade and craft one, and the streets began to be built up according to a rectangular layout.
Since 1991, Saransk has been the capital of the Republic of Mordovia and has a population of just over 300 thousand people. Not a trace remained of the historical fortress, and for the 2018 World Cup, the city center was rebuilt beyond recognition, so it was very interesting to go and look at the "new clothes" of Saransk.
First Saransk Train Station was built in 1893. In the early 1940s. the station square was expanded, and the station building was rebuilt in the style of Soviet constructivism with columns and statues. 
In 2009, the Soviet railway station was demolished and a new railway station building was built in its place, now it looks like this: 
A monument to the stratonauts is erected in the center of the station square.
Stratonaut - a person who flew into the stratosphere on a stratospheric balloon.
Monument to the heroes-stratonauts installed in Saransk in 1963 in honor of three pilots who crashed during the descent in the south of Mordovia. 
By Lenin Avenue we go to the center of Saransk. What an interesting color scheme for fences, only the sign “Attention! Fence!" 
The central streets in Saransk are duplicated in Mordovian (Erzya and Moksha) languages. Erzya and Moksha are two subethnos of the Mordovian people. I am very glad that the small peoples of Russia do not forget about their roots. 
House of Unions(Lenin Avenue, 12) was built in 1957, ranked as an architectural monument of regional significance, it is not touched. And behind the House of Unions there is a ridiculous plastic box, this is the Ministry of Finance. 
I met on the way fox with cubs... The fox is a symbol of Saransk, it is depicted on the emblem of the city, as an indicator of the wealth of the Mordovian forests with a valuable fur animal. 
At the address Lenin Avenue, 11 is gymnasium number 12... In 1934, a school was built on this site, which in 1991 received the status of a gymnasium. 
In 2001, the reconstruction was completed and the building changed beyond recognition, now the 12th gymnasium looks like this: 
Here comes Ministry of Finance closer (street Kommunisticheskaya 33/1), isn't it a terrible building, probably built in the 2000s. 
And this is how the same building looked before, without an ugly extension and plastic trim: 
Good that National Bank of the Republic of Mordovia occupies an old Stalinist building, otherwise it would look the same as the Ministry of Finance. 
House of the Republic- the residence of the Head of the Republic of Mordovia. Located on Sovetskaya Square. Built in 1987, and it's even strange that it was not rebuilt into plastic nonsense. 
Here, on Sovetskaya Square, there is another Soviet building untouched by plastic - House of Soviets decorated with a Mordovian pattern. The building was built in 1939, now it houses the State Assembly of the Republic of Mordovia. 
Soviet square- the oldest square in the city, is a pedestrian section of Sovetskaya Street. And not a single shop. Why? 
Building administration of Saransk was built in 1915, initially it housed a merchant club and a teachers' seminary. The building was given the status of an architectural monument of the history and culture of Saransk at the beginning of the 20th century. 
The corner house with a clock and a boarded-up front entrance (Krasnoarmeyskaya st., 47) is incredibly attracting attention. 
The city clock did not appear on the house right away. In the photo from about the 60s. you can see the same house without a clock. Then this section of the street was still passable. 
Victory Square- memorial part of Saransk. There is an eternal flame, a monument to those killed in the Great Patriotic War and a very strange at first glance building - a museum of military and labor exploits. 
Museum of Military and Labor Feat was opened in 1995. As conceived by the architect, the building is made in the form of the borders of Mordovia, and on top is decorated with a kokoshnik with copper medallions. To add mourning, the museum is faced with granite slabs in the colors of the St. George ribbon. To be honest, this whole structure looks ridiculous and even frightening. 
Eternal flame and monument to the soldiers of Mordovia who fell in the Great Patriotic War established in 1970. The sculpture depicts Mother Mordovia giving a sword to her son-soldier. Columns with a memorial wall were installed in 2005. 
In 2000 was built chapel of Alexander Nevsky(red). 
Newbie Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov was built in 2006. 
Fedor Fedorovich Ushakov was a talented Russian naval commander and admiral, won 43 naval battles and did not suffer a single defeat, did not lose a single ship in battles, not a single subordinate was captured. Since 2001, he has been canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church as a locally revered saint of the Saransk and Mordovian diocese.
Monument to Admiral Ushakov was installed on the cathedral square also in 2006. 
To the right of the cathedral can be found family monument installed here in 2008. The monument is located as if the family is heading to the temple, cleverly thought up. 
Wedding Palace(Sovetskaya street, 47a) - another collective farm plastic box. 
On one side of the cathedral square, there is the Rio shopping center and some kind of space office building. 
On the other side is the Ministry of Internal Affairs for the Republic of Mordovia. 
Main post office, you are amazing! (Bolshevistskaya st., 31) 
The new building was built in 2013 on the site of the old main post office, which stood for 77 years (from 1934 to 2011). 
That which could not be demolished is lined with fiberglass on all sides.
Republican Children's Library, opened since 1960. In 2010, Ogarev Plaza was built next to the library. 
Or the 26th building of the Mordovian State University, next to it the construction of the hotel is nearing completion (screen from google maps). 
Came out on Millennium Square... It was built in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the unity of the Mordovian people with the peoples of Russia, which was in 2012. 
Previously, this place was the location of the central sports stadium "Svetotekhnika". Until 2010, it was the home arena of the Mordovia football club. In the summer of 2010, the demolition of the stadium began, on the site of which Millennium Square was built. 
A fountain and a universal sports hall "Arena Mordovia" have been erected in the center of Millennium Square. It's good that it is signed on the map, otherwise you might accidentally think that this is just another shopping center. 
New the first building of Moscow State University(Mordovia State University) named after Ogarev - the Chinese version of Moscow State University (Moscow State University) named after M.V. Lomonosov.
The U-shaped extension next to it is the administrative and library (main) building, they did not demolish and rebuild it, they just covered it with plastic. Now the main building looks far from being the main one. 
The old first building was built in the 40s, in 2011 it was demolished. The construction of the new building was completed in 2016. 
National Library. A.S. Pushkin(Bohdana Khmelnitsky St., 26) was founded in 1899, and moved to the current building in 1970. In 2009, a new 9-storey building was added to the library building, and floors were added to the old building and double-glazed windows were inserted. 
This is how the old building looked like before the reconstruction. Even somehow disrespectful for the library. 
We turn to Bohdan Khmelnitsky. 
The gray plastic box is an entertainment complex.
Further, the yellow building is the hotel "Meridian". This is a new building. Before him, a mansion was built on this site in 1947, where important guests of Saransk stayed. Since 2000, it has housed a children's medical institution. In 2010, the mansion was demolished and the current building appeared in its place.
Red building - State Musical Theater. I. M. Yausheva, also new building in 2011. 
Republican Palace of Culture(Proletarskaya street, 39), was completely rebuilt in 2012. 
It was originally built in 1974 and looked just awful. But what it was rebuilt looks at least ridiculous. 
The street is communist, again fences with striped posts and another blue shopping center on the horizon. Oh, no, this is the main post office. 
The last attraction that we will see in Saransk is Museum of Fine Arts. S. D. Erzya(street Kommunisticheskaya, 61).
Stepan Dmitrievich Erzya(real name - Nefyodov) - Russian and Soviet artist, sculptor, master of wood sculpture, representative of the Art Nouveau style. The pseudonym reflects the artist's belonging to the Erzya ethnic group as part of the Mordovian peoples.
The museum has been operating since 1958, then it was still located in the building of the fire station. In 1976, a new building was erected, which still receives visitors. 
If you have time, be sure to visit the Erzya Museum. 
Today we present you an article on the topic: "Mordovia attractions" with a full description of where to go and what to see. We also offer interesting comments from travelers.
Sights of Mordovia - overview and photos of interesting places
Mordovia is a republic within the Russian Federation, belonging to the Volga region and located in the western part of this region. The capital of this Volga republic is the city of Saransk. Its history as an independent region began in 1930, when the Mordovian Autonomous Region was formed. Four years later, the autonomous region received the status of a republic within the RSFSR.
By the nature of the relief, the republic can be divided into two parts: its western part is located on the Oka-Don Plain, and the eastern, more extensive, is located on the Volga Upland. Natural zones are also changing from the north-west to the south-east of the region - the zone of coniferous-deciduous forests gradually turns into the forest-steppe zone.
There are many cultural, historical and sports attractions in Mordovia, as well as unique natural monuments of interest to guests of the republic.
This museum, located in the capital of Mordovia, is considered the oldest cultural institution on its territory. It was created in 1918 through the efforts of about a hundred local historians, who had been collecting exhibits for it for years. In 2001, the museum officially became one of the institutions of the greatest cultural value in the republic. After another 4 years, he was named after Ivan Dmitrievich Voronov, a local lore scientist, who singled out local history as an independent science, literary critic and writer.
The museum has a historical exposition, a department of modern history and exhibits that tell about the nature of the region. The total number of its exhibits exceeds 200 000 ... Here you can get acquainted with valuable books, collections of coins, ancient weapons, as well as see stuffed animals of different species.
This wonderful museum is located in Saransk. It houses the world's largest collection of works by the famous sculptor Erzya. Also in the museum you can contemplate the works of artists Sychkov and Makarov. These three cultural figures are natives of Mordovia.
The museum has an art salon where you can not only see, but also buy your favorite paintings and sculptures by contemporary authors.
The museum is located on Victory Square in Saransk. It was opened for the 50th anniversary of the Great Victory. The square on which it is located is a memorial complex. Granite slabs on the facade of the museum are decorated in the form of a St. George ribbon, and the roof is stylized as a Russian kokoshnik.
The Locomotive Depot Museum is located in Ruzayevka - a large railway junction and one of the main centers of the construction of railway transport in Russia. At the entrance to the museum, there are two soldiers with guns, as was the case at the beginning of the twentieth century. Museum visitors are given an excellent opportunity to learn the history of the legendary steam locomotive "Kukushka", which is considered a symbol of Ruzayevka, as well as about the local depot and railway transport of the beginning of the last century.
The Mordovian State National Drama Theater is located in the capital of the republic. In addition to classical performances, you can see performances by Mordovian playwrights in Mordovian languages (Erzyan and Moksha) with simultaneous translations into Russian. The theater actors are actively touring the territory of the republic and neighboring regions in which the Mordovians live.
The theater has existed since 1889. Then it was organized by the graduates of the Schepkinsky theater school who returned to their small homeland, at whose disposal an old house was provided. Since 2007 the theater has been located in a new building.
One of the attractions of Saransk is the musical theater. It hosts concerts of classical music, operas, operettas, comedy music and ballet performances. The theater was opened in 1935. By the beginning of the 75th season, the theater was allocated a new building. Its auditorium began to accommodate over 700 people. According to its acoustic characteristics, this hall is one of the best in Russia. Then, in 2011, he was named after the Mordovian singer I.M. Yaushev.
The cathedral was built in Saransk in 2006. It was consecrated by Patriarch Alexy II. The building of the cathedral was erected in the Empire style, and the dome is made in the neo-Byzantine style. The temple rises 62 meters from ground level. It has 4 belfries, each of which has 3 bells made in Tutaev using old technologies. The cathedral can be visited by more than 3000 people at the same time.
The Church of St. John the Evangelist in Saransk was erected in 1693 on the site where an old wooden church had previously been.
At the end of the 30s, the temple was closed, the archive of the NKVD was placed here. In 1944, the church was reopened to parishioners. For a long time it was the only functioning church in the city. Since 1960, the temple has been included in the list of architectural monuments of federal significance.
The monastery is located on the territory of the Ruzaevsky district in the village of Paygarma. In 1865, an icon of the martyr Paraskeva was discovered on the territory of a rural church, and in connection with this significant event it was decided to build a monastery here, which will bear the name of the saint. The territory of the monastery covers an area of about 11 ha... Its temples, chapels and bell towers were built in different architectural styles, and in general, the architectural complex of the monastery looks very harmonious. The monastery is regularly visited by many pilgrims striving for spiritual growth and looking for their true path.
The Sanaksar Monastery is located near the town of Temnikov on the banks of the Moksha River, surrounded by a pine forest. Its history began in 1659. The most revered shrines of the monastery are the relics of the saints of the Monk Theodore, the righteous warrior Theodore (Ushakov), the Monk Alexander the Confessor, as well as the icons of the Mother of God. Pilgrims from all over Russia come to touch its shrines.
This is the main national library of Mordovia. It began its existence in 1899, when a library-reading room was created by the joint efforts of the intelligentsia of Saransk. Her visit was absolutely free.
At first, there were very few books in it, but due to donations, its fund gradually increased. In 1939, the library became republican, a separate building was allocated for it. In 1970 it was moved to a new building, where it is still located.
Recently, a building of 9 floors was added to it, which made it possible to increase the size of the library several times. Among its many subdivisions, there is a department completely devoted to the work of literary figures of Mordovia. The institution has established close contacts with other libraries of the Finno-Ugric peoples, including those in foreign countries.
The reserve is located on the right bank of the Moksha River. Almost all of its territory is covered mainly with pine forests. The age of the pines growing here is estimated at 300-350 years old... There are also mixed forests with pines, birches, lindens and oaks. Spruce forests can be found in the river valleys.
Lake Inerka is located near the regional center Bolshiye Berezniki in the valley of the Sura River. This is one of the most beautiful and the largest lake in area in Mordovia (56 square kilometers). Its shores are covered with coniferous-deciduous and birch forests.
On the shores of the lake, tourists love to pitch their tents. There are good fishing spots, and in the coastal forests you can pick mushrooms and berries. In addition, off-road rallies are annually held near the lake.
This amazing park is located in the Leninsky district of Saransk. In the park, you can stroll along the picturesque alleys, cross the streams flowing through its territory, climb wooden bridges with railings made by art forging masters, relax in the gazebos covered with green ivy. Sculptures of the heroes of the fairy tales of A.S. Pushkin. The park has a variety of attractions and is home to the country's largest zoo. This is a favorite vacation spot for the residents of Saransk; both adults and children love to visit it.
The legendary instigator of the peasant uprising visited Saransk in the early summer of 1774. He spent only a few days in these places, during which he managed to execute many representatives of the nobility and clergy who were disagreeable to him and to publish a manifesto on freedom for serfs.
In memory of those events, a monument to Pugachev was erected in Saransk. The tent of the leader of the peasant war was also preserved, which is an old stone house.
This is the largest sports facility in Mordovia, which trains athletes of all levels in many sports. The sports complex has been open since 2004.
In the Saransk Sports Palace, sports competitions are held from the city to the all-Russian level. It hosts competitions in water sports, various types of wrestling, gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, basketball and volleyball.
Mordovia is proud of all the peoples who have ever inhabited it. The republic scrupulously collects everything related to national identity, but at the same time emphasizes the inextricable connection with the rest of Russia. Orthodox churches and monasteries are a great opportunity for pilgrims to visit holy places, as well as travel all over Mordovia.
Many sights are concentrated in Saransk. The most demanding tourist will be able to occupy himself here: an art gallery, a theater, walking areas, monuments - which is not available in the capital of the republic. Another direction is travel to the bosom of nature. Smolny National Park, lakes and rivers, as well as forests of all types are ideal for ecotourism lovers.
List, photos with names and descriptions of the best attractions!
1. Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov
Built in Saransk in the early 2000s. It is a cathedral and replaced the previous temple with the same status, since it has a large capacity. Bears the name of the canonized admiral. The cathedral was consecrated by Patriarch Alexy II. The architectural style is Empire, and 12 gilded domes, cast according to the technologies of past years, belong to the neo-Byzantine style. The iconostasis was made in Saratov from gilded wood.
2. Old Terizmorga
The village has become the concentration of Moksha culture and traditions. A festival is held with the participation of the Finno-Ugric peoples. There is a cultural center, St. Nicholas Church, an ethnographic museum. Master classes are held, including teaching how to weave from beads. Tourists are offered to taste traditional Mokshan cuisine - millet pancakes and pose. The local choir, which has existed since 1957, performs throughout the country and abroad.
3. Mordovian nature reserve
Founded in 1936 on the territory of more than 32 thousand hectares of Temnikovsky district. In addition to getting to know nature, you should take a look around the local museum and visitor center. The reserve offers visitors 8 ecological tours for every taste. You need to get a special permit before visiting this place. The hotel is open all year round. You can also stop at one of the cordons.
4. Insar St. Olginsky Monastery
It arose on the basis of a small hotel for nuns, founded in the 80s of the XIX century. In 1900, a nearby temple was consecrated. It has 12 chapters, all small. The purpose of this architecture is to reduce the focus on a bulky facade. In Soviet times, it housed a museum of local lore. Since 1988, the monastery began to revive. At the time of the restoration, 30 sisters lived in the monastery.
5. Klyuchevskaya desert
Located near the border with the Chuvash Republic. The monastery arose in the 18th century and dates back to the appearance of the icon at the holy source. The spring was popular even during the years of desolation of the monastery. It began to be restored from the mid-90s of the last century. The old buildings were restored, a new bell tower, baths with a chapel at the source and a hotel for pilgrims were built.
6. Lake Inerka
It is about 70 km from Saransk. The area is 44 hectares, it has an elongated shape. The water is clear with a bluish tint for most of the year. Birds nest and water lilies grow on the shores. A little further there are forests of several types: coniferous, deciduous, birch. The lake area hosts off-road races, fishing competitions, concerts, beach parties and other events.
7. National Park "Smolny"
It was founded in 1995 and covers an area of 35.5 thousand hectares on the left bank of the Alatyr River. Rare birds nest in the forest and on the floodplain; this area is one of the most important for ornithologists of the world. The forests are both mixed and pine and deciduous. The meadows are mostly floodplain. The national park has an educational function, so there are eco-routes and excursions.
8. Paigarm Paraskevo-Ascension Monastery
The convent was founded in 1865. It grew rapidly, with workshops and an orphanage working there. The main shrine is the icon of the holy Martyr Paraskeva, which contains a particle of her relics. There are two cathedrals, two churches and three chapels built on the territory. Each building has its own characteristics, but the ensemble looks like a single whole. Nearby: a spring with a chapel and a bathhouse and a hotel for pilgrims.
9. Sanaksar monastery
Built in the Temnikovsky district in the middle of the 17th century. For some time, the male abode was considered one of the spiritual centers of the country. After 60 years of desolation, it began to recover in 1991. A small sawmill and a candle shop were opened. In the forest nearby is the holy spring of the Monk Theodore. The territory has been ennobled, baths and convenient access to the water have been built.
10. Makarovsky St. John the Theological Monastery
Founded in the mid-90s of the last century, while most of the temples and other buildings were built much earlier. They have been restored and supplemented with the necessary modern details. There was a churchyard here in the 18th century. There are a number of architectural features. For example, the bell tower is built into the fence along with the towers. It is the residence of the local metropolitan. The Synodal Department for Youth Affairs operates on the basis of the monastery.
11. Ichalkovsky stud farm
Pedigree stud farm No. 27 "Mordovsky" has been located in the village of Obrochnoye since 1778. From Saransk - 60 km. One of the largest stud farms in the Volga region. In addition to purebred horses from different countries, they work here with a unique breed - the Moksha trotter. The visit program includes acquaintance with history, inspection of stables, horseback riding. Tourists are welcomed all year round and every day, except Mondays.
12. Stadium "Mordovia Arena"
Built in Saransk for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, which took place in Russia. It has a category 4 according to the UEFA classification. The capacity is from 30 thousand to more than 43 thousand people. Excellent visibility from anywhere in the stadium. Modern in technical terms, which makes the matches more spectacular, and the work of journalists is convenient. Suitable for people with disabilities.
13. St. John the Theological Church
The oldest building in Saransk, which appeared on the site of its wooden predecessor in 1693. Repeatedly rebuilt and changed, there were limits, and then the bell tower. The church was closed in the 30s of the last century, but services began again in the 40s. For some time it had the status of a cathedral. The main shrine is a copy of the miraculous Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God.
14. Mordovian Museum of Local Lore
Based in Saransk since 1918. Since 2017, the museum has a new building. Funds - more than 200 thousand units. Divided into three sections: history, modern history and nature. The first two mentions important events in the Russian and world arena, and their reflection in Mordovian life, and also mentions the cultural features of the region. The third is the most visited. Here, the natural complexes of the republic have been recreated in miniature.
15. Museum of Mordovian Folk Culture
In 1999, a building in Saransk, formerly owned by a merchant, was allocated for it. Exhibits: national costumes, household items, folk art, etc. Funds - about 3.5 thousand units. They collect stories about holidays, legends of the peoples of the republic, record traditions and hold events with a special flavor. The goal is to prevent new generations from forgetting their roots.
16. Botanical Garden named after V. N. Rzhavitin
Named after its creator. It has been based on the basis of the Faculty of Biology of the Mordovian State University since 1960. The area is just over 35 hectares. The total number of species is 1700. Thanks to the botanical garden in Saransk, miniature natural zones, characteristic of different parts of the planet, have appeared. In addition, samples of local vegetation are collected here. Open to the public from May to October.
17. Museum of Fine Arts named after S. D. Erzya
Has been in Saransk since 1941. Named after the sculptor and owns a large collection of his work. In addition, the collection includes paintings, graphics, arts and crafts, both by world-renowned masters, as well as local artists. Some of the exhibitions are supplemented with multimedia content. The museum has a cinema, a lecture hall, a souvenir shop and a cafe.
18. Museum and Ethnographic Complex "Mordovskoe Podvorie"
The opening took place in 2012. Considering that the complex is located in Saransk, it can be called unique: it fits well into the urban environment. Buildings typical for the peoples inhabiting the republic have been recreated on the spacious territory. They are different in style and purpose. Green areas are laid out, paths are laid, there are fountains and mini-reservoirs. Before visiting, you need to clarify the opening hours.
19. Musical Theater named after I. M. Yaushev
It was founded in 1935 in Saransk, and received its current name in 1994. Named after the Honored Artist of the RSFSR, who developed opera in the region. The theater moved to a new building in 2011. The troupe puts on performances based on classical works and also uses materials from local authors and composers. Touring groups and participants of festivals periodically appear on the stage. The theater has a cafe "Mask".
20. Monument "Forever with Russia"
Installed in Saransk on the Friendship of Peoples Square in 1986. On a stele towering over the surroundings, there are two female figures. They are wearing national costumes symbolizing Russia and Mordovia. The women are holding one large wheat spikelet. Sculptor - Brodsky, material - bronze. In 2012, a fountain complex appeared next to the monument, complementing the overall picture.
21. Monument to the stratonauts in Saransk
Installed in 1963 and dedicated to everyone who was able to reach the stratosphere. The reason for its creation was the tragedy of 1934, when a failure occurred during the descent, and the stratonauts died, and their module fell on the territory of Mordovia. The monument is a tall stele, on top of which is a man in a special helmet, with his chest outstretched and as if ready to fly.
22. Park of culture and recreation named after A.S. Pushkin
Its history began in the 19th century with the desire to create a green zone on an unnamed square in Saransk, namely to plant trees. The final design of the territory into the park took place at the beginning of the 20th century. Notable places: a Ferris wheel, a monument to Ushakov, a special flower calendar, Pushkin made of plants, a zoo and more. There is a comfortable hotel and cafe nearby.
23. National Library named after A.S. Pushkin
The largest library of the republic is located in Saransk. It opened in 1899. Funds - over a million copies. At the time of creation, a little more than 300 books were received here. The library looked more like a reading room, and then changed direction, gradually expanding. Now one copy of each edition issued in Mordovia gets into the library's repository.
24. Museum of A.I. Polezhaev
Works since 2001 in Saransk and is dedicated to the local poet. Three halls are dedicated directly to Polezhaev, his work, life hobbies, the writer's personal belongings are kept here. The fourth room is dedicated to a collection dedicated to other local authors of various sizes. And the fifth is a lecture hall and sometimes a discussion club. Like most museums, it is closed on Mondays.
25. Park of Culture and Leisure of the Leninsky District
It has been located in Saransk since 1978; the locals, in addition to the official name, use one more thing - "Ogarevsky". The area is about 150 hectares, most of which is a forest belt. It is cool here in summer even in the heat, vacationers are accommodated under the shade of trees and near small bodies of water. Skiing is popular in winter. There are rental points for the necessary equipment on the territory. One of the symbols - the Ferris wheel - had to be removed due to dilapidation.
26. Victory Square in Saransk
The current name has been assigned to it since 1972. Sightseeing: Alexander Nevsky Chapel, Escape from Hell memorial sign, monument to soldiers who were born in Mordovia, who fell during the Second World War, monument to World War I heroes, eternal flame, Memorial Museum of Military and Labor Feat of 1941-1945, Monument to Soldiers-Internationalists. All sorts of events are held on the square, including those related to May 9.
27. Museum of the locomotive depot in Ruzayevka
It has existed for over 40 years, but in different forms. Initially, it was a small room with memorabilia, gradually the museum grew and received its current status. In 2006, it was redesigned anew, the collection was put in order, consisting mostly of documentary evidence, photos and other original exhibits. Sometimes the funds are replenished by ordinary citizens who bring to the museum what they think is appropriate.
28. House-Museum "Ethno-Kudo" named after V. I. Romashkin
Opened in 2006 in the village of Podlesnaya Tavla. Dedicated to the folklorist Romashkin and his many years of work. Some of the rooms are reserved for the personal belongings of the researcher, who was also the founder of the Torama folk group, and some for the ethno-collection. The museum hosts an annual festival where songs of local peoples are performed. The exposition can be viewed all year round, with the exception of weekends - Mondays.
29. House-Museum of F. V. Sychkov
It has been located in the village of Kochelaevo since 1970. The exposition consists of the artist's personal belongings, attributes and decorations typical of the houses of that time, as well as the master's works. All rooms were restored according to the memories of Sychkov's wife, some household items were provided by his family. A separate collection includes the awards received by Fyodor Vasilyevich, including those for the war period.
30. Moksha River
The length is 656 km, half of the total length is within Mordovia. The name of the river is presumably derived from one of the national groups that have inhabited this area since ancient times. Calm waters allow even novice tourists to travel along the river. Along the banks there are tourist centers, children's camps, a sanatorium of the same name. In some settlements, for example, in Krasnoslobodsk, beaches are equipped.
Saransk received a powerful impetus for development after 2010, when it was selected as one of the candidates to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup. That is why funds from the federal budget began to be allocated for the restoration of architectural monuments, the construction of new cultural objects, as well as for improving the infrastructure and making the city more attractive. As a result, Saransk has become a well-groomed and rather interesting place, where there will be something for tourists to see.
The first step is to walk through the squares and streets, while glancing into local churches - both new and old churches are magnificent examples of traditional church building. Then you should visit the city museums, which are interesting not only for their expositions, but also for the buildings in which they are located. You can finish the walk in the park named after A.S. Pushkin or at the monument to Emelyan Pugachev.
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What to see and where to go in Saransk?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.
1. Cathedral of Theodore Ushakov
Outstanding monument of ecclesiastical architecture of the XXI century, built in the Empire style. The cathedral was erected in 2006 and consecrated by Patriarch Alexy II. The grandiose temple with a 60-meter dome is designed for 3 thousand parishioners. Inside there is a skillfully executed gilded iconostasis made of precious wood, the entrance portal is decorated with majestic marble columns. The whole appearance of the temple evokes thoughts of something lofty and unearthly.
The main city square, which arose in the middle of the 17th century. Its very first name is Sobornaya, later it was renamed into Torgovaya, Bazarnaya and, finally, in 1919, into Sovetskaya. Today, the architectural appearance of the square is formed by modern buildings of the 20th century, historical buildings, alas, have not survived. The oldest building is the former House of Soviets, erected in the 1940s.
3. Millennium Square
It appeared in Saransk in 2012. It was built in honor of the anniversary of the unification of Russia and Mordovia. It occupies a fairly large area and is perfectly adapted for walking and organizing public events. One of its main decorations is the color music fountain "Star of Morodvia" with a diameter of 60 meters, in the center of which there is a solar sign of the national ornament.
4. Musical theater named after I. M. Yaushev
A musical stage where opera, ballet, operettas and musicals are staged. The theater also hosts children's performances and concerts. It was founded in 1935 and initially its repertoire was composed of comedy productions. In 2011, the troupe moved to a new building with a large auditorium with a capacity of over 700 spectators. The facade of the building is painted in white and red, columns, capitals and shapes reminiscent of the outlines of musical instruments are used as decorative elements.
5. National Drama Theater
For the national republics of the Russian Federation, the tendency to build theaters focused on the works of local authors has long become the norm. In Mordovia, such a stage was built in the late 1980s. Most of the repertoire consists of works by Mordovian authors, which are shown in Erzya and Moksha with simultaneous translation. There are also plays by classical Russian and foreign playwrights, but there are much fewer of them.
6. Russian Drama Theater
Another theater stage in Saransk, but already specializing in a more classical repertoire - the works of Russian and foreign playwrights. The theater opened in 1932 and has developed successfully since then. Since the 1990s, the troupe has taken part in international and local festivals, receiving high marks from critics and audiences. To attract a wider audience, performances by contemporary authors are introduced into the repertoire.
7. Museum of Fine Arts named after S. D. Erzya
The museum was opened in 1960, in the 1970s it was renamed in honor of S.D. Erzya, the famous Mordovian sculptor. The basis of the collections is made up of his works, as well as the works of a native of the republic, artist FV Sychkov. In total, the museum funds store more than 15 thousand exhibits representing Russian and national Mordovian art, arts and crafts and modern trends.
8. National Museum of Local Lore
One of the oldest museum institutions in Mordovia, founded in 1918 at the initiative of representatives of the local intelligentsia. His many collections are located in several branches. One of the largest branches is a new building built in the 2000s. It resembles a classic 19th century palace, decorated with elements traditional for this style: arches, portico, columns, domed towers.
9. Museum of Mordovian Folk Culture
The museum collection is housed in a 19th century mansion, which is a monument of urban architecture. Before the Revolution of 1917, this house belonged to the merchant K. Kh. Barablin. The exposition consists of national clothes, handicrafts made by Mordovian craftsmen, agricultural tools, household items that give an idea of the culture of the peoples inhabiting Mordovia.
10. Museum of A.I. Polezhaev
The exposition of the museum is dedicated to the artist A.I. Polezhaev. It started working in 2001 on the territory of a 19th century wooden house. The collection consists of four sections dedicated to various periods of the author's life and work, as well as a literary living room, where poetry evenings and concerts are held. It should be noted that this is the only museum in Russia dedicated to the activities of A.I. Polezhaev.
11. Museum of military and labor exploits
The collection of the museum is part of the memorial complex erected in honor of the Victory in the Second World War. The institution opened in 1995. You should pay attention to the original building - the facade is composed of multi-colored granite slabs in the colors of the St. George ribbon, the shape of the structure resembles the outlines of the borders of Mordovia. The exposition is located in four halls, next to it there is an open area with an exhibition of military equipment.
12. Monument to the soldiers of Mordovia who fell during the Second World War
Memorial complex, located on pl. Victory. It includes several structures: a monument to soldiers, a Museum of military and labor exploits, another monument to soldiers-internationalists, a chapel and an obelisk "Escape from Hell". All elements of the complex appeared at different times - the earliest (a sculptural group depicting a woman handing a sword to her son-soldier) was built in the 1970s.
13. Makarovsky St. John the Theological Monastery
The men's monastery, located in the village of Makarovka. It was founded not so long ago - in 1995, on the lands where the Cathedral of St. John the Theologian has stood since the beginning of the 18th century, around which there was a cemetery. The building of the cathedral has survived to this day. Later, other churches were erected here, destroyed after the Revolution. That is, the monastery can be considered both new and old.
14. Church of St. John the Evangelist
The temple is the oldest preserved architectural object on the territory of Mordovia. Due to its value, it not only did not suffer during the persecution of religion, but even in the 1960s it was declared an architectural monument. The church was erected at the end of the 17th century, 200 years later a bell tower was added to it. Since 1944, it has been the only one operating in the republic.
15. Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker
Temple of the late 19th century, built according to the project of the Penza architect. The building was erected in a rather typical architectural style for that time, imitating classical Russian architecture. The facade and walls are made of red bricks. In Soviet times, the church was used for other purposes, but its appearance did not suffer from this at all - the building has survived to this day in its original form.
16. Temple of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God
A new temple built in the 2000s in a stately neo-Byzantine style. True, with significant simplifications, given the current trends in architecture. There are several domes on the central quadrangle, along the edges there are a three-tiered bell tower and semicircular apses. The entrance is decorated with decorative arches and large windows, due to which there is a lot of light inside the building.
17. Monument to Yemelyan Pugachev
During the Pugachev uprising, the inhabitants of Saransk gave the rebel and his army a warm welcome. During his stay in the city, he freed all the peasants and divided food supplies among the poorest, and also executed many merchants and officials. The monument in his honor is the only one in Russia. The mighty figure of Yemelyan crowns an impromptu fortress wall.
18. Monument to the stratonauts
The monument is dedicated to I. D. Usyskin, A. B. Vasenko and P. F. Fedoseenko, who in the 1930s created the Osoaviakhim-1 apparatus and rose on it to an altitude of 22 km into the stratosphere. The flying device crashed, killing all three. In memory of this tragic event in the 1950s, a sculptural group was erected in Saransk in the form of a young man standing on a pedestal with bas-reliefs of the participants in the flight.
19. "Mordovia Arena"
Football stadium built for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. It was founded in 2010. The estimated capacity is over 40 thousand spectators. After the competition and reconstruction, which includes a reduction in the number of stands and the construction of additional space for sports facilities, the arena will become the home arena for the local FC Mordovia.
20. Park named after A.S. Pushkin
The park was founded in the 19th century, when the first trees were planted in one of the city squares around the church. The final improvement of the city garden was completed by the beginning of the 20th century: a theater worked on the territory, an orchestra performed and festivities took place. In the 1930s, by decision of the authorities, the park's area was increased several times and placed on it dance floors, summer cafes, auditoriums, a cinema and exhibition pavilions.
The most interesting sights of Mordovia are located in the city of Saransk: museums, parks, churches, a monastery and much more. The most striking natural sights of Mordovia are the beautiful Lake Inerka, the Smidovich Nature Reserve and the Smolny National Park.
Lake Inerka
The Republic of Mordovia is located 330 km from Moscow (MKAD). Why is it interesting? Despite its proximity to Moscow, many people confuse it with Moldova or have heard very little about it.
The center of Mordovian life is the city of Saransk, the capital of the Republic of Mordovia. Here is the center of culture, entertainment and everything else. Saransk is a city of republican significance. Citizens from all over Mordovia flock here for some narrower problem: medical examination, receiving state services, etc.
Saransk is home to about 315 thousand people. In second place in terms of number and importance is the city of Ruzayevka - with a population of about 46 thousand people. In third place is the city of Kovylkino with a population of 20 thousand. The next are the urban-type settlement Komsomolsky - 13 thousand people and the working settlement Zubova Polyana - 10 thousand people.
There are 7 cities in Mordovia: apart from Saransk, Ruzaevka and Kovylkino, these are Krasnoslobodsk, Ardatov, Insar and Temnikov. The oldest and smallest is the city of Temnikov. Its population is only 6.3 thousand people, the date of foundation is 1536.
The entire population of the republic is less than 1 million - about 800 thousand people. Russians, Mordovians and Tatars live in Mordovia. Mordovians are subdivided into three nationalities: Moksha, Erzyans and Shoksha.
Natural objects of Mordovia
The largest lakes in Mordovia are:
- Inerka- the largest lake in the Republic. Translated from Mordovian "Inerka" means "Great Lake". Its length is 3.35 km, width is 80-150 meters, maximum depth is 11.5 meters.
- Imerka- the deepest lake in Mordovia, located on the territory of the Zubovo-Polyansky region.
The rivers of Mordovia are flat and calm. The main rivers are Moksha and Sura.
Mordovia Map
Route M5
The federal highway M5 Moscow-Chelyabinsk passes through Mordovia. Driving along the highway after the Moscow and Ryazan regions, Mordovia begins. The most extreme to Moscow and the largest region of Mordovia is Zubovo-Polyansky.
After entering the territory of Mordovia, the famous village of Umet will be on the highway. It is known for the abundance of tiny cafes along the route (more than 200) and strong smoke and smell from kebabs. The names of the cafes are varied, the most famous of which is "Mordonalds".
Umet The main target audience of local catering is truckers, but there are also just hungry people passing by. When stopping at the Umet cafe, remember that everything is simple here, for an undemanding client: a wooden toilet on the street, simple dishes, not fancy homemade food.
The entire village of Umet, numbering 2.7 thousand people, works in public catering.
Sights of Mordovia
Camps
Mordovia is famous for its prisons; Dubravlag or ZhKh-385, which is part of the Gulag system, was built here at the end of the 1920s. This is not to be proud of, but it is a sad fact. The camps are located among the forests of the western part of Mordovia in the Zubovo-Polyansky district, now there are more than 30 of them.
The center of this largest state. institution is the village of Yavas, previously it was named 36 kilometers and Zavodskoy. Therefore, the Mordovian zone is often called Java.
In Soviet times, there was a special camp for watered prisoners. Now among the correctional colonies (IK) there is the only zone in Russia for foreigners. There is also a zone for life-sentenced prisoners and women's camps. By the way, modern political prisoners were sitting here again: Yukos lawyer Svetlana Bakhmina, Pussy Riot member Nadezhda Tolokonnikova.
Saransk
Most of the sights of Mordovia are concentrated in Saransk. - these are museums and monuments, theaters and cinemas, parks, a zoo, attractions, nightclubs, restaurants, shopping centers and other pleasures. If you happen to be in Mordovia, so as not to get bored and buy, be sure to come to Saransk.
Fountain Star of Mordovia on Millennium Square
The city makes a good impression. There are many squares, beautiful modern and embankments. Despite the large number of factories, it does not give a depressing impression of an industrial city. Saransk is an oasis of civilization among endless forests, fields, swamps and small settlements of Mordovia.
In addition, Saransk is an old fortress city, it was founded in 1641. It was visited by the troops of Stepan Razin and Emelyan Pugachev himself. It's always interesting when a city has some kind of history.
Saransk is the smallest Russian city that hosted the 2018 FIFA World Cup. For this event, the Mordovia Arena stadium was built in the shape of the sun, with a maximum capacity of about 44 thousand people.
Ruzayevka
Railway station in Ruzayevka
Ruzayevka is the second city after Saransk in terms of population in Mordovia. After the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Ruzayevka has changed for the better. The railway station was repaired, the streets were improved, the main roads were repaired. And also the bus station was finally put in order and the most important thing: the railway pedestrian bridge was reconstructed.
What pleases the passengers of Ruzayevka station is that the railway station and the bus station are located in one place. The truth is separated by a pedestrian bridge over the railroad tracks. Now it has become covered and beautiful instead of a completely new, but shabby and broken-down bridge.
The bridge now has lifts on each side. No more hauling heavy bags up onto the bridge and then down. Walking across the new, glazed bridge, I just want to say: thank you, World Championship. If not for you, the passengers would have suffered dragging their luggage across the bridge.
In 2011, a monument to the railway workers of Ruzayevka - the Lebyadyanka freight steam locomotive - was erected on the Privokzalnaya Square. The steam locomotive was built in 1954 and was used for most of its life on the Penza-Ruzaevka and Ruzaevka-Krasny knot sections. Nearby are bronze figures of a railway worker with his son.
From the bus station Ruzayevka to the bus station of Saransk - 27 km.
Attractions Ruzayevka
Locomotive Depot Museum
Ruzayevka is not rich in interesting or beautiful places. The city of railway workers can offer as a cultural leisure - the museum of the locomotive depot. It is located at: st. Revolution of 1905, house 7.
Trinity Cathedral
Ruzayevka's Holy Trinity Cathedral with 16 golden domes was founded in 2009. Built in 2012 at the expense of the Ruzaevsky Glass Factory and donations of believers at the address: st. Karl Marx, building 61. The construction of the temple was timed to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of the unity of the Mordovian people with the peoples of Russia.
The temple is huge, 40 meters high, there is a library and a Sunday school, a refectory and an assembly hall, here is the Ruzaevsk diocese. Divided into upper and lower temples. Located at the entrance to the city from Saransk, at the highest point.
Near Ruzayevka there is the village of Paigarma, which houses the old Paraskevo-Ascension Monastery for women. The monastery is active.
Temnikov
The town of Temnikov is located on the Moksha River, surrounded by pine forests. The relict pine Emashevskaya grove is located here on the shores of Lake Vyakchisheva.
The city of Temnikov is primarily famous for the ancient Sanaksar monastery, where the grave and relics of Admiral Fyodor Ushakov are located. There is also the Temnikovsky Museum of History and Local Lore and the House-Museum of the composer L. I. Voinov.
Temnikov's adornment is the old church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (1827). It was built in honor of the Temnikov militia in 1812.
A few kilometers from the town of Temnikov there is the most beautiful old Nativity of the Theotokos Sanaksar Monastery. It is located on the banks of the Moksha River and was founded in 1659.
The name of the monastery is associated with the personality of Admiral Ushakov, the famous Russian naval commander. He spent the rest of his life in his estate in the village of Alekseevka near the town of Temnikov. Now there is nothing left of the estate.
The famous admiral was buried in the Sanaksar monastery. In 2001, he was canonized by the church as a saint in the face of the righteous. And now the monastery has not only the grave of the great military leader, but also the relics of the saint.
The remains of Fyodor Fedorovich Ushakov from time to time travel across Russia as holy relics for solemn church events with the participation of military personnel and sailors.
It is noteworthy that the uncle of the admiral Ivan Ignatovich Ushakov, after the tonsure - Theodore Sanaksarsky was the governor of the Sanaksarsky monatyr (1764-1774), died and was buried here. In 1999, the church canonized him as a saint, but only locally revered by the Saransk diocese.
Krasnoslobodsk
Passing the city of Krasnoslobodsk, you will not confuse it with anything. A notable attraction of Krasnoslobodsk is the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ. It is located at the crossroads of major roads and rises 35 meters above the houses.
The sight of such a tall, pompous temple with dazzlingly gilded domes against the background of dull typical houses causes dissonance. It absolutely does not fit into the local landscape and once again emphasizes the pathos and grandeur of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Chamzinsky district
The Chamzinsky district of the Republic of Mordovia cannot boast of any sights, despite the fact that the villages of Komsomolsky and Chamzinka are located here. They are large settlements of the Republic. In Komsomolsk there are large plants "Mordovcement" and "Lato".
There are no large lakes or rivers in the Chamzinsky district, the only natural attraction is Bald mountain, spread out next to Alekseevka.
You can also note the beautiful old church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God in the village of Makolovo.
Torbeevo
The village of Torbeevo with a population of 9 thousand people is located on the M-5 highway between Zubovaya Polyana and Krasnoslobodsk. Torbeevo was glorified all over the world by the man who managed to escape from the German concentration camp - fighter pilot, Hero of the Soviet Union Mikhail Devyatayev. He was born in Torbeevo, now in his homeland there is a house-museum dedicated to the exploit of the pilot.
Site: mrkm.ru Address: st. Oktyabrskaya, 29 Price: 50 rubles, schoolchildren, students - 20 rubles, children from 5 to 7 years old - 15 rubles.
The museum was opened on May 8, 1975. It consists of two parts: ethnographic and dedicated to the Great Patriotic War. Here are Devyatayev's personal belongings, documents, photographs, awards, as well as items from the Sachsenhausen concentration camp: a striped prisoner robe, wooden shoes, a whip and others.
