Mtsensk is one of the oldest cities in the Oryol region, where ancient bell towers coexist with panel houses of the Soviet era. He is exactly one year older than Moscow! The first written mention of this city dates back to 1146. In the article you will find information about the main attractions of Mtsensk with photos and detailed descriptions.
Mtsensk: getting to know the city
Mtsensk has been known since 1146. This is one of the oldest cities in the Oryol region, which managed to visit both a military fortress and a shopping center. Today it is a small city of regional importance with a total population of approximately 40 thousand people.
The modern layout of Mtsensk was formed at the end of the 17th century. The Zusha River divides this city into two parts. On the left bank are the historical quarters of the old Mtsensk, and on the right - the administrative center with predominantly Soviet buildings. The main transport artery of the city, Mira Street, unites both parts.
Mtsensk lies in the temperate continental climate zone. Summer is quite hot here.winters are cold and snowy. The natural landscapes in the vicinity of the city embody the classic Russian landscape, consisting of lakes, forests, lush meadows and birch groves.
Below you will find descriptions of the sights of Mtsensk, as well as learn about what souvenirs you can take home from this wonderful town.
Orthodox shrines of Mtsensk
The main attractions of Mtsensk are its temples and monasteries, of which there are at least a dozen here. So, in the northwestern part of the city, the ruins of the Peter and Paul Monastery of the 16th century have been preserved. On the high bank of the river stands a five-domed beauty - the Vvedenskaya Church - the oldest monument and the most famous landmark of Mtsensk.
On the corner of Karl Marx Street and Pionerskaya Street you can see the Ex altation Church. It was built in 1818. It was within the walls of this church that the body of Alexander I stayed, following from Taganrog to the capital. Another beautiful temple of Mtsensk is located on Komsomolskaya street. This is a massive brick church of St. George the Victorious. It was closed in the 1930s and is not used for worship until today.
Unfortunately, not all the ancient temples of Mtsensk survived the Soviet period of history. So, in 1930, the most beautiful Nicholas Cathedral was blown up. In its place, on Mount Samorod, today stands the modest chapel of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, built in 1996.
Walking down Mira Street
The central street in the city is Peace Street. It starts from Orlovskaya Square on the left bank of the river,crosses Zusha and rests on Turgenev Street. It adjoins the central square of the city - Lenin Square. A large number of architectural and historical sights of Mtsensk are concentrated on Mira Street.
Immediately after the bridge over the river, Mira Street runs along the main city park of culture and recreation. It was founded in the first half of the 20th century and is a monument of garden and park art. Today you can ride horses or have fun on the children's rides. The park often hosts various musical and theatrical events.
Several old merchant houses built at the turn of the 19th-20th centuries have been preserved on Peace Street. The most beautiful among them is the house at number 17 with an elegant brick decor. On the same street there is another interesting architectural landmark of Mtsensk. This is a white three-story building of the city administration in the style of constructivism. The building is crowned with a spectacular corner clock tower and a huge bas-relief.
Mtsensk souvenirs and entertainment
Standard bells, dishes, as well as magnets with images of the main attractions of Mtsensk can be taken away from the city as a keepsake. However, this locality also has its own unique souvenir - authentic lace.
The history of lace craft in Mtsensk dates back more than two centuries. Local craftsmen even supplied the court of the emperor with their products. In addition, Mtsensk lace was supplied to England, Turkey and France. Amazing productswith magnificent patterns - exactly what you need to buy in the city of Mtsensk in the first place!
As for entertainment, there are few of them in Mtsensk. If you come to the city in winter, you should definitely visit the local ski resort near the former ZiL boarding house. It is located to the west of the city and has ten lifts.
