Saransk is the capital of sunny Mordovia. Sights of Saransk National Drama Theater
The capital of Mordovia, the city of Saransk, has many interesting sights. These are museums, cathedrals, parks, theaters and much more. Residents and guests of the city enjoy visiting these wonderful places. Visiting the sights of Saransk, you can learn about the present and past of Mordovia, immerse yourself in the culture of this people.
What to see in Saransk?
The most interesting and popular places with photos and descriptions.
1. Museum of Fine Arts. S. D. Erzya
This landmark of Saransk is an important cultural monument of the Republic of Mordovia. Modern name it has been worn since 1995. Here are collected works of the outstanding sculpture and artist Stepan Dmitrievich Erzya. Also presented are the works of the Soviet artist-painter F.V. Sychkov and portraitist I.K. Makarov.
In the central building, the western and eastern buildings are distinguished, connected by a passage. The third building houses the exhibition hall of the drama theater. In other halls you can see paintings, graphics, sculpture. Works of Mordovian folk and decorative-applied art are presented. There are exhibits of Russian art of the 18th – 19th centuries.
The museum has many state awards. It is an important cultural and educational center. It is visited not only locals, but also guests from other cities of Russia, countries of near and far abroad.
2. Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov
The number of parishioners of the Church of St. John the Divine grew every year. During the visit of Patriarch Alexy II to Saransk in 2000, the Divine Liturgy was held on the square, since the cathedral could not accommodate everyone. The need arose for the construction of a cathedral of greater capacity. The place for the construction was chosen in the center of the city.
The erected cathedral was named after the Russian naval commander Fyodor Ushakov. His monument is opposite. The cathedral is the tallest temple building in the Volga region and the most beautiful architectural landmark of Saransk. It accommodates more than 3 thousand parishioners. The temple has 4 belfries with 12 bells. The largest weighs 6 tons.
3. Park of Culture and Leisure named after A.S. Pushkin
Pushkin Park is a great place to relax in Saransk. He is one of the best in Russia. As early as the 19th century, trees were planted on Uspenskaya Square. The garden was named after A.S. Pushkin. A bust of the poet was also installed here.
For a long time folk festivals have been held in the park, graduation parties, theatrical performances. For this, a dance floor and summer coffee were built. Now the territory covers about 40 hectares. There were modern attractions, a flower calendar, a green portrait of Pushkin. Visitors can climb to heights and view the surroundings from the Ferris wheel. In the park you can meet the heroes of the Pushkin's corner. On weekends, a brass band awaits its viewer.
4. Museum of Mordovian folk culture
This popular landmark of the city of Saransk is located in an old building of the early 20th century. The museum contains a collection of ceramics, household items, icons, tools, agricultural implements. On permanent exhibition you can get acquainted with the life, way of life, rituals of the Mordovian people. Exhibitions of works of individual artists are constantly organized here. Thematic exhibitions reflect the creativity of Mordovian masters: "Lace Tale", "Woodcarving" and many others. Children and youth of the republic get acquainted in the museum with educational programs aimed at preserving the historical and cultural heritage, aesthetic education.
5. Musical Theater. THEM. Yausheva
The modern building is a colorful four-story palace. It has a very large hall and stage. This palace is adjoined by a nine-storey building.
The history of the theater dates back to 1935. At first, musical comedies were staged here. Later it was the theater of opera and ballet. The landmark has been named after the Honored Artist of the RSFSR I.M.Yaushev since 1994. This talented performer has been loved by the public for many years.
The musical theater of Saransk staged performances and festivals. Famous performers often perform on the stage. The theater sounds musical works world classics and composers of Mordovia.
6. John the Theological Monastery
The architectural complex traces its history back to the construction of the Church of the Archangel Michael in 1702. Later, the St. John the Theological Cathedral appeared, and then other buildings. At the beginning of the 19th century, a temple of the Icon of the Sign of the Mother of God was built on the territory. In the 30s, it was destroyed and then rebuilt. The icon "Inexhaustible Chalice" is also kept here.
The architectural solution of this sight of Saransk is quite interesting. In the center of the symmetrical pentagon is the Church of St. John the Evangelist. On both sides of it are the Archangel and Znamenskaya churches. Towers are located in the corners. Outwardly, the monastery resembles a temple-fortress. The belfry previously served as an alarm signal. A large number of people could be hidden in the basement behind thick walls.
Today pilgrims visit the monastery. It is open to all believers. Recently, a Sunday school was opened in the monastery.
7. Mordovian Republican United Museum of Local Lore
The largest museum in Saransk began its history in 1918. At first it was a small building, where exhibitions of various objects from the ancestral mansions were organized. After the revolution, the museum funds were significantly replenished. The museum has moved to different locations several times. Now it is located on Moskovskaya Street. Originally there was a church here.
Here are collected household items, archaeological finds, books, paintings, sculptures, furniture. An interesting exhibition of weapons, collections of coins, watches and much more. The first hall is dedicated to weddings in compliance with Mordovian customs. The history of the region is tracked from hall to hall. Archaeological finds dating back to the Stone Age are presented. The second floor is connected with the history of the 20th century. This is very interesting place, which is worth visiting in Saransk.
8. Museum of military and labor feat
This museum was opened in Saransk in 1995 in memory of the heroic struggle of the Soviet people during the Second World War. It is located on Victory Square. The outline of the building follows the borders of Mordovia. The building is faced with granite in the colors of the St. George ribbon. The roof resembles a Tatar kokoshnik.
Four halls are equipped:
- "Glory";
- "Fiery front roads";
- "Generals";
- "Continuity".
In the first hall, a mosaic depicts soldiers and home front workers. The second contains various exhibits on a given topic. The third room displays images of Soviet commanders, as well as various weapons. The "Continuity" hall is dedicated to the period of the war in Afghanistan and Chechnya.
The museum contains items of uniform, samples of weapons of the war years. There are archival documents, photographs, letters, awards. Visitors can see thematic sculptures and paintings by Russian artists. In front of the museum there is an exhibition area with equipment from the Great Patriotic War.
9. Nikolskaya Church
The five-domed red brick building was built in 1906. This is one of the oldest temples in Saransk. Before the revolution, the church was called Peter and Paul. After the establishment of Soviet power, it was used as a warehouse, a workshop. Despite this, it has survived.
Since 1990, the temple has been illuminated in the name of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. In recent years, it has been restored and refurbished. The power and severity of forms of this architectural landmark of Saransk is given by red brick. The gilded domes are visible from different points of the city.
10. Millennium Square
One of the most important landmarks of the city is the Millennium Square. It was opened during the celebration of the anniversary of the unity of the Mordovian people with other peoples of the Russian state. The territory is lined with paving stones of different colors with national ornaments. There are many green spaces, unusual structures, benches.
The recreation area is reminiscent of the European style. The square is home to one of the highest color music fountains in the country in the shape of a star. At its base there is a symbol from the national pattern. There is a special area where walking on water is allowed.
Often, guests of the capital show interest in a huge stone. A map of Mordovia of the 10th century and the family marks of the Rurikovichs are carved on it. There are many other places in the square where you can have a good rest. The National Library is also located here, and the State University is located nearby.
11. National Drama Theater
The Mordovian Theater was founded in 1932. At first, here one could see scenes based on the works of Russian classics in the Mordovian language, and later performances by national authors.
The new theater building was opened in 2007. It is linked to the Museum of Fine Arts. The outside walls are finished with dark red bricks. Used inserts of Mordovian ornament. The ceremonial columns alternate with bronze sculptures of women and men in national costumes. The theatrical collective participates in various festivals, travels with performances to other cities. Spectators visit the theater with pleasure.
12. Russian Drama Theater
Performances based on the works of the classics can be seen at the Russian Drama Theater. Almost half of the troupe has the titles of People's and Honored Artists. A creative, professional team participates and wins in theater competitions and festivals of various levels. The repertoire of the theater is diverse. Both classics and "informal" performances are staged here.
13. Mordovia Arena
The football stadium in Saransk is a unique architectural structure. It was specially built for the 2018 championship. The structure consists of a two-storey basement. Sloping walls protect spectators from the wind. The stands are divided into 4 parts. Among them there is a family area specially equipped for disabled people, a VIP area. Each sector has an entrance and an emergency exit, a toilet and a catering point.
The stadium is conveniently located from the airport, bus station and train station. There are also hotels and other key infrastructure nearby.
14. Ice Palace
A modern sports complex in Saransk was opened in 2007. It takes large area... The main arena can seat 3,000 visitors. On the territory of the sports complex there are sports schools for figure skating, hockey, and short track speed skating. Sports events and ice shows are held in the palace arenas. The working condition of the ice is maintained with the help of modern equipment.
Museums and theaters, religious centers, sports complexes and other worthy sights of Saransk are always waiting for their visitors.
Mordovia is a republic of 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 monuments nature 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 history 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.
Location: Moskovskaya street - 48.
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.
Location: Kommunisticheskaya street - 61.
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.
In the museum you can see letters from the front, war photographs, awards, personal belongings of soldiers, samples of weapons and military archives. Also in his collections there are works of art, which show the heroism and courage of our soldiers. In addition, it presents an exposition on the topic of modern local wars.
Location: Sovetskaya Street - 34A.
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 have 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.
Location: Lenin Street - 48.
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.
Location: Sovetskaya Street - 60.
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, a new building was allocated to the theater. 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.
Location: Bohdan Khmelnitsky Street - 36.
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.
Location: Sovetskaya Street - 53.
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.
Location: Democratic Street - 28.
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 found on the territory of the village 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.
Sanaksar Monastery is located near the town of Temnikov on the banks of the Moksha River, surrounded by 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 a republican, a separate building was allocated for it. In 1970 it was moved to a new building, where it is still located.
Recently, a 9-storey building 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 entirely devoted to the work of the literary figures of Mordovia. The institution has established close contacts with other libraries of the Finno-Ugric peoples, including those in foreign countries.
Location: Bohdan Khmelnitsky Street - 26.
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... There are also mixed forests with pines, birches, lindens and oaks. Spruce forests can be found in the river valleys.
The floodplain meadows are very beautiful, where you can find more than 1000 species of herbaceous plants, including rare ones. Animal world the reserve is represented by species characteristic of various natural zones - from taiga to steppe. It is home to brown bears, wolves, badgers, beavers, bison, desman and many other species of animals, including rare birds.
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. Here good places for fishing, and in the coastal forests you can pick mushrooms and berries. In addition, off-road car rallies are annually held near the lake.
This amazing park is located in the Leninsky district of Saransk. In the park, you can walk 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.
Location: Krasnoarmeyskaya street - 12.
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.
Location: Korolenko and Volgogradskaya streets (crossroads).
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.
Location: Stroitelnaya street - 13.
In the Saransk Sports Palace, sports competitions are held from city to all-Russian level. Competitions are held here in aquatic species sports, various types of wrestling, gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, basketball and volleyball.
Location: Polezhaeva Street - 34.
The opening of this stadium took place in Saransk in 2004. It hosts competitions in team sports, water sports, athletics, speed skating and cross-country skiing. Part sports complex includes 4 magnificent football fields, 2 of which have natural turf.
Location: Moskovskaya Street - 12.
This is the very new stadium that will host part of the 2018 FIFA World Cup matches in 2018. It is located in the valley of the Insar river near the center of Saransk.
Its main facade overlooks the embankment and the city center. More than 44,000 viewers... The stadium has sections with separate entrances for fans of the away teams, a family section and seats for people with disabilities.
Location: Volgogradskaya street - 11.
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 historic fortress, and the city center was rebuilt beyond recognition for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, 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 stratosphere.
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 richness 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 has been assigned the status architectural monument history and culture of Saransk at the beginning of the XX 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 who died 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 Cathedral Square shopping center Rio 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 football club"Mordovia". 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 the 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 main building looks far from being the main thing. 
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 named after 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, when 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. 
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 - a great opportunity for pilgrims to visit the 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. National park Smolny, 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. Mordovia reserve
It was founded in 1936 on the territory of more than 32 thousand hectares of the 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. 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 in 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. In the area of the lake, off-road races, fishing competitions, concerts, beach parties and other events are held.
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, here they work with a unique breed - the Moksha trotter. The visit program includes acquaintance with history, visiting 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 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 more 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 botanical garden in Saransk, miniature natural zones appeared, characteristic of different parts of the planet. In addition, samples of local vegetation are collected here. Open for visits 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. There is a cafe "Mask" at the theater.
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 so on. 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 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: the chapel of Alexander Nevsky, the memorial sign "Escape from Hell", the monument to the soldiers-natives of Mordovia, who fell during the Second World War, the monument to the heroes of the First World War, the eternal flame, Memorial museum military and labor feat of 1941-1945, a 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.
