History, features and main attractions of Mtsensk

Mtsensk is one of the oldest cities in the Orel region, where the ancient bell towers coexist with the 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 year. In the article you will find information about the main sights of Mtsensk with photos and detailed descriptions.

Mtsensk: getting to know the city

Mtsensk is known since 1146. This is one of the oldest cities in the Orel region, which managed to visit both a military fortress and a shopping center. Today it is a small town of regional significance with a total population of about 40 thousand people.

The modern layout of Mtsensk was formed at the end of the XVII century. The river Zusha divides this city into two parts. On the left bank are the historic quarters of the old Mtsensk, and on the right - the administrative center with mostly Soviet buildings. Unites both parts of the main transport artery of the city - Mira Street.

Mtsensk lies in the temperate continental climate zone. Summer is quite hot here, and winters are cool and snowy. Natural landscapes in the vicinity of the city embody the classic Russian landscape, consisting of lakes, forests, succulent meadows and birch groves.

Below you will find descriptions of Mtsensk attractions, as well as find out what souvenirs can be taken home with from this wonderful town.

Orthodox shrines of Mtsensk

The main attractions of Mtsensk - its temples and monasteries, of which there are at least a dozen. Thus, in the north-western part of the city, the ruins of the 16th century Peter and Paul Monastery have been preserved. On the high bank of the river there is a five-headed beauty - Vvedenskaya church is the oldest monument and the most famous landmark of Mtsensk.

On the corner of Karl Marx street and Pionerskaya one can see the Vozdvizhensky temple. It was built in 1818. It was within the walls of this church that the body of Alexander I resided, 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. In the 1930s it was closed and until today it is not used for worship services.

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 a modest chapel of Nicholas the Wonderworker, built in 1996.

Walking along Mira Street

The central street in the city is Mira Street. It starts from Orel Square on the left bank of the river, crosses Zusha and rests on Turgenev Street. It is adjacent to the central square of the city - Lenin Square. A lot of architectural and historical sights of Mtsensk are concentrated on Mir street.

Right after the bridge across the river, Mir street passes along the main city park of culture and rest. It was laid in the first half of the twentieth century and is a monument of landscape art. Today, you can go horseback riding or have fun at children's attractions. The park often hosts various musical and theatrical events.

On the street of the world, several ancient merchant houses built at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries were preserved. 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 tower with a clock and a huge bas-relief.

Mtsensk Souvenirs and Entertainment

For the memory of the city you can take away standard bells, dishes, as well as magnets with images of the main attractions of Mtsensk. However, this village has its own unique souvenir - authentic lace.

The history of lace fishing in Mtsensk has been counting for more than two centuries. By their products local craftsmen supplied even the court of the emperor. In addition, Mtsensk laces were supplied to England, Turkey and France. Amazing products with magnificent patterns - exactly what you need to buy in the city of Mtsensk in the first place!

As for entertainment, there are not many of them in Mtsensk. If you arrive in the city in winter, then it's worth to visit the local ski resort at the former boarding house "ZiL". It is located to the west of the city and has ten lifts.