The small resort town of Kislovodsk in the Caucasus has long been famous for its mineral springs, which can cure dozens of diseases. But no less healing is the mountain air, filled with the aromas of coniferous forests. It is not surprising that the Temple of the Air in Kislovodsk was erected here.
Historical background
In the spring of 1914, the city leadership decided to build a pavilion on the territory of the Upper Park. At that time, they began to equip it, and vacationers strolled through the picturesque surroundings. The pavilion was necessary in order to shelter from the weather or just relax.
There is evidence that the site for construction was chosen on March 23 at the highest point in the eastern part of the park. In clear weather, Elbrus is visible from here and offers stunning views of the surroundings.
The outstanding Russian and Soviet architect Semyonov took up the project. In April 14, building materials were brought to the site, and by the beginning of the season, the building was completely ready and finished.
The new building was called the Air Temple in Kislovodsk. A year later, they decided to rename it to the "Palace of the Air", but the historical name was preserved in the memory of the people, and was again returned to the memorable object a few years later.
The building survived the revolution and the war. During the Soviet era, there was a cafe, a first-aid post, a rest room and a small library. Nearby, on Pervomaiskaya Polyana, various city events were held, and city residents and visitors walked through picturesque places, enjoying the beauties.
In April 1973, the lower station of the cable car was opened nearby, and is still operating today.
Restored from ruins
During the perestroika period, this object was abandoned and needed restoration. But there was no money for restoration in the budget. In 1986, the Air Temple in Kislovodsk was closed, and the building was destroyed for almost three decades under the influence of winds and bad weather. In the 21st century, the Russian government decided to restore the resort town in the Caucasus and return the status of an All-Russian he alth resort to it.
The first item in the program was the restoration of this particular building. The builders erected a new building according to old surviving drawings. And today the Air Temple in Kislovodsk, once again opened its doors to visitors.
Architectural solution
The photo of the Air Temple in Kislovodsk conveys its airiness and harmony. This is a classic semi-rotunda with windows facingto the west. An open semi-circular platform with a flat roof rests on six columns. A wide front staircase leads to it. Side rooms with high arched windows are attached to the pavilion on both sides.
The decoration of the facades is stucco molding in the form of flower wreaths decorated with ribbons.
The structure resembles an ancient temple. It fits into the surrounding landscape and is also filled with air and light, like all nature.
Place of attraction
Here, at the top of the mountain, vacationers rushed a century ago. And today the flow of those wishing to look around the surroundings from a dizzying height does not dry out. Almost every tourist who comes to Kislovodsk goes up to this attraction to enjoy the views and take beautiful pictures.
In the 70s, the Temple of the Air restaurant (Kislovodsk) was opened not far from the pavilion. He enjoyed great popularity. The vocal and instrumental ensemble that performed on the stage of the restaurant was known throughout the district. The musicians performed both well-known hits and songs of their own composition. Several records were even recorded. This ensemble is still remembered by the locals and carefully keeps the old albums.
There is also a gazebo nearby, where you can relax after descending from the mountain. Special tubes are mounted in its columns and in windy weather they make melodious sounds. Wind music sounds, filling the surroundings with harmony. There are many sunbathing and sunbathing in this gazebo at any time of the year.
How to get there
Vacationerseasily find out how to get to the Air Temple in Kislovodsk. For the convenience of tourists, there are many signs and other landmarks. First you need to get to the Resort Park, climb the Cascade Staircase and, after passing the Red Stones, turn left - to the Temple of the Air. In the immediate vicinity there is a cable car station and a ticket office where you can buy tickets for the ascent.
The building has a cafe and a first-aid post where vacationers can measure their pulse and blood pressure, or get first aid if necessary.
Temple of the Air in Kislovodsk again acquires the status of one of the symbols of the city.
