Pyatigorsk: 45 photos and map, what to see, sanatoriums and attractions

Walking route around Pyatigorsk: Getting to know the city center

If you are in Pyatigorsk for the first time (or have been many times, but want to walk your favorite streets again), you should focus on the city center. It is convenient to start the walk from an iconic place - the monument to M. Yu. Lermontov. It is located in the park of the same name. This is the first monument to the poet in Russia, and money for its installation was raised literally by the whole world. The monument was erected in August 1889.

Spassky Cathedral

Don't miss the Spassky Cathedral, recreated on the site of a 19th-century temple. This is the cathedral of the Pyatigorsk diocese. It is convenient that you can visit it daily and for free; the temple has very beautiful wall paintings, frescoes and ancient icons.

It is believed that all paths in Pyatigorsk will lead you to Tsvetnik Park. This is the oldest park in the resort; it is almost 200 years old. And all these two centuries, the park remains the center of resort life in Pyatigorsk: people walk here, admire the picturesque nature, listen to music. Famous architects, the Bernardazzi brothers, worked on its landscape design.

There are many man-made and natural attractions in Tsvetnik Park. Invariably attract attention: the elegant Lermontov Gallery, a beautiful building made of colored glass and metal, the ancient building of Gukasov’s coffee shop, and next to it is a monument to Kisa Vorobyaninov, the legendary character in the novel “12 Chairs” by Ilf and Petrov.

The most popular building not only in the park, but in all of Pyatigorsk is the Lermontov Gallery. You've probably seen its colorful spiers and turrets, even if you've never been to Pyatigorsk. The structure, innovative in its performance style, was opened in 1901 as a music hall and stage for theatrical productions. At one time Mayakovsky and Chaliapin performed here; today the premises belong to the State Philharmonic.

From here it’s a couple of steps to Diana’s grotto, another Bernardazzi creation. It is located on the northern slope of Goryachaya Mountain, and is an artificial cave. At the entrance to the grotto there are two commemorative plaques about the first ascent of expeditions to. And also about one of the honorary guests of this cave - Lermontov.

A steep staircase leads up from the grotto. Along it you can climb Mount Goryachaya, famous not only for its views, but also for its ancient history. After all, it was from the natural baths that local residents cut down on its slopes (they were freely filled with healing water from springs) that the balneological history of Pyatigorye began. These baths were used by the soldiers of the fortress, and later by the first resort residents of the Caucasian Mineral Waters.

Chinese gazebo

Another remarkable place on the mountainside is the Chinese gazebo. From the platform next to it there is an excellent view of the panoramas surrounding the city, and the resort itself to the horizon.

Nearby there is a sculpture of an eagle, which has become the emblem of not only Pyatigorsk, but the entire region. The eagle was not chosen by chance: the author of the sculpture was inspired by an ancient legend about a powerful bird, fatally stung by a snake, and saved by a source of healing water.

For history buffs, the collection of the Open Air Archaeological Museum awaits. It contains ancient stone artifacts found on the territory of Pyatigorsk. The exposition is small, but very interesting.

Read more about what to do in Pyatigorsk in our review material.

Read more: What to see in Pyatigorsk in 1 day

Red flags

It may seem that native residents are embarrassed by the strong influx of migrants coming to the city to work, but there are a number of other important reasons. Over the past few years, this territory has become increasingly populated by visitors who came to work. Therefore, the only way to somehow arrange one’s life was to contact the employment center (Pyatigorsk), whose vacancies do not always meet the expectations of applicants. Spiritual governance for Muslims was justified, which made terrorist attacks more likely.

And the explosion really took place in Pyatigorsk. Explosives were planted in the Maryinskaya village and murders were committed. People simply began to worry about their own lives. Stavropol region began to be compared with Kosovo. At that time, the authorities tried their best to reassure the public, assuring people that nothing terrible was actually happening. Journalists, as a rule, were bribed so that they would not stir up unnecessary unrest and would write what was beneficial to the city government.

Route from Pyatigorsk: Where to go in the vicinity of the city

If you have one day of free time, you can devote it to getting to know the outskirts of Pyatigorsk. There are many natural and man-made attractions here: resort towns, huge parks, ancient mansions.

Essentuki Resort

It’s more convenient to start your walk from Essentuki - from here to Pyatigorsk is about 20 kilometers. A few hours are enough for a short acquaintance with the city; you can leisurely get to know Essentuki for several days.

If you don’t have that much time left, first go to Theater Square, the cultural center of the resort. The fountain gurgles on the square, and the most remarkable buildings are the Concert Hall. Shalyapin and the Museum of Local Lore. Nearby is the Zero Kilometer of Love, it marks the beginning of a new life for lovers and newlyweds.

Conveniently, the monument is located right at the entrance to the Resort Park. Essentuki Resort Park is a remarkable place in all respects. This is a monument of nature, culture, architecture. It’s nice to stroll along the walking paths - health paths, and drink some water in one of the pump rooms (it’s free, but it’s better to discuss the appointment with your doctor in advance). And also admire the architecture of the park: don’t miss the elegant gazebos - Musical, Oreanda, and Chance Encounters.

The large territory of the park is divided into several alleys, where baths, drinking galleries, and the Theater Park are located. Head to the north-eastern part of the park, from here you can go through the arch to the famous Semashko Mud Bath.

Mud bath named after Semashko

This majestic building will take us back to the times of antiquity - there are beautiful columns, porticos, sculptures of ancient Greek gods, stone bas-reliefs. Even if you have no need to improve your health yet, go just to look at the building from the outside - and be sure to take a photo as a souvenir.

Remember the famous scene from the film adaptation of “12 Chairs” by Leonid Gaidai? The one where the former leader of the nobility asks for food - it was filmed right at the entrance to the Semashko Mud Bath. Having captured the memorable place, you can move on to Kislovodsk.

You can read more about interesting routes and beautiful places in Essentuki in our special review material.

National composition

The last census was carried out in 2010, based on the results of which the population of Pyatigorsk can be characterized as follows: the majority of Russians are here (101.857 thousand), that is, 71.47%.

The second largest group is representatives of Armenian nationality, of whom there are 18.72 thousand people. (13.31%). The next largest number of people on the list are Azerbaijanis, of whom there are 4.35 thousand (3.05%). There are also a lot of Ukrainians – 2.55 thousand people, or 1.79%. There were 1.65 thousand Kabardians (1.16%).

There are also a large number of other nations, whose total number is 13.14 thousand (9.22%). In total, the population of Pyatigorsk was 142,511 thousand people as of 2010. It can be seen that the Slavic population constitutes the bulk of the population in the city. The figures do not give much cause for concern, but some details elude statistical services. In reality, everything is somewhat less rosy.

Holidays in Pyatigorsk with children

Pyatigorsk is the best city in the Caucasian Mineralnye Vody for family holidays. Here, not only parents, but also children can easily find something to their liking - parks, playgrounds, children's centers, zoological gardens, creative workshops.

Territory "Park Rodnik"

One of the best vacation spots in Kavminvody is Rodnik Park . Here, on an area of 4,000 square meters, everything has been created for a great holiday: a hotel, restaurants, summer terraces of cafes. There is also a playground and a zoo - a place of attraction for all kids.

The complex's zoo shelters more than 40 species of animals: llamas, bears, lions, wolves, and tigers. Some animals can be petted and fed by hand. Ducks and swans live in the park’s ponds; all the birds are accustomed to the attention of the guests of the complex. It’s nice that the zoo’s pets are well-groomed, they live in comfortable conditions, delighting visitors.

Another interesting natural park in Pyatigorsk is called Berendeevo . The zoo is home to more than 70 animals, including exotic representatives - kangaroos, ponies, ostriches. Children will really like it here - you can pet the pets, feed them, and take pictures with them.

The zoo is located in the Kirov Park, one of the central places of Pyatigorsk. Here, young travelers will find play attractions, a climbing wall, swings and carousels, and a rope town with excellent climbing routes. The Pyatigorsk Planetarium is located in the same park; it will tell young (and adult) guests about space in an entertaining way.

The most popular entertainment. It is stylized in the theme of a tropical jungle, where children will find labyrinths, slides, excellent play areas, and an obstacle course. In Planet of Games, young tourists will try their hand at conquering slot machines, ride a train and slide down slides.

Does your little one love animals? For vivid impressions of meeting graceful horses and ponies, you can go to the Beshtau and Derzhava equestrian clubs, as well as to the Pyatigorsk Hippodrome. In horse clubs they will teach you how to stay in the saddle or give you a pony ride. At the hippodrome, guests will enjoy real shows with the participation of experienced “artists”.

With older children, be sure to visit Proval, a natural break in the rock with a small lake of a fantastic azure hue. There is an excellent observation deck next to it; travelers of any age will enjoy the views from it.

Demographic situation

Considering the scale of the entire Stavropol region, we can say that in 2014, 36.68 thousand people were born, while 32.825 thousand people died. There are more complete families than those where the child is raised by one parent. 267 children were adopted in 2014.

However, it is worth noting that there are still a lot of divorces. For example, the ratio of marriage and divorce processes in 2015 was 100 to 58. We can conclude based on the statistics collected by the employment center: Pyatigorsk overall shows an increase in demographic indicators.

For example, in 2010 the density was 2.033 thousand people/sq. km, and in 2014 – 2064.23 thousand people/sq. km. km. In terms of natural growth, in 2014 this settlement was ranked 64th. In addition, in the same year, 2,290 people were born here, thanks to which this territory took 104th place in the Russian Federation. 2166 people died. (ranking position 100). That is, we can say that birth rates exceed mortality rates, which is undoubtedly a positive sign.

The population of Pyatigorsk is steadily growing. According to official data, 175 people migrated from here in 2014, although in reality the situation is turbulent, and we can talk about a serious outflow of the Russian population. 5,832 thousand people moved here, of which 3,078 thousand were female and 2,754 thousand were male. In terms of the influx of people, it was ranked 87th.

Holidays and festivals in Pyatigorsk

Pyatigorsk is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the Caucasian Mineral Waters. Almost all year round you can find something interesting here: concerts, ethnic festivals, dance and poetry evenings, theater seasons, fairs.

New Year and Christmas are the most joyful holidays of the year; residents of Pyatigorsk celebrate in the company of guests, brightly and cheerfully. You can spend New Year's Eve at the main city tree, surrounded by laughter, noise and fireworks. During the New Year holidays you can go ice skating, and on Christmas Eve guests are treated to “Christmas Meetings” .

On February 23, residents and guests of the resort congratulate the defenders of the Fatherland, and at the end of winter they brightly and cheerfully celebrate Maslenitsa . The main folk festival takes place in the city park named after. Kirov, concerts, fairs, and performances of creative groups are organized here. Guests are entertained by animation programs.

On March 8, the operetta theater will host a festive concert in honor of the fair half of humanity, and a little later - the already traditional children's festival “Art Parade of Fairy Tale Heroes” . It is attended by clubs, creative groups, students of art schools - everyone who is interested in creativity.

On May 9, Victory Day - parades, concerts, theatrical programs, honoring veterans, and fireworks. And on June 1, Children’s Day, a festive theatrical program “Magic City” and an asphalt drawing competition are organized for the younger generation.

The Operetta Theater is the center of cultural life in Pyatigorsk

the opening of the swimming season is organized on Lake Novopyatigorsk ; a holiday awaits the townspeople and guests of Pyatigorsk. Concerts, competitions with gifts, fun game shows, and of course traditional beach holidays. However, throughout the summer, on weekends, concerts of a variety of performers take place in open areas - free and in the fresh air.

Pyatigorsk City Day is another reason to come to the resort in September. It is celebrated very cheerfully; these days Pyatigorsk turns into one cheerful concert venue: music, dancing, competitions, treats, sports competitions, a balloon festival.

Fans of good music will enjoy the autumn festival of jazz art . And poetry fans will appreciate the festive events dedicated to Mikhail Yuryevich Lermontov. “Lermontov Seasons” are held in Pyatigorsk regularly in order to preserve the cultural heritage of the poet.

Discrimination against Slavs

Chechen entrepreneurs were actively buying real estate at that time. So even when Russians remain in the city, their life cannot be called cloudless, comfortable and calm.

Another depressing trend is that, although Slavs mostly live in Pyatigorsk, 50% of positions in the management of law enforcement agencies are occupied by visitors from the Caucasus. This, of course, affects the results of their work activities.

Social support for the population of Pyatigorsk is becoming an increasingly pressing issue. Russians are beginning to be openly discriminated against. If conflicts break out between them and Caucasian guests, the authorities, as a rule, help ensure that the matter is resolved in favor of the latter.

Wellness holiday

Pyatigorsk is one of the most promising thermal resorts in Russia. It can adequately compete with well-known Russian and European destinations, because Pyatigorsk has all the conditions for an excellent holiday. In addition to nature routes, historical excursions and outdoor recreation, people come to Pyatigorsk for health benefits.

For hundreds of years the city has been known as a health resort, and thanks to the mild climate in Pyatigorsk and the surrounding areas you can relax all year round. The main pride of Pyatigorsk is about 50 different mineral springs, they differ in chemical composition and temperature. Mineral waters are used in the treatment of many diseases. Please note: consultation with a doctor before starting treatment is required.

Sanatorium complex “Mashuk Aqua-Term”

A separate advantage of Pyatigorsk is its unique radon springs, as well as mud baths that use the valuable silt mud of Lake Tambukan, which has almost no analogues in the world.

All these medical procedures can be appreciated in one of the sanatoriums of Pyatigorsk - choose according to your taste, all health resorts of the resort guarantee relaxation of the highest quality.

By the way, if when you hear the word “sanatorium” you imagine boring white corridors and queues to see a doctor, your information is very outdated. Nowadays, the sanatoriums of Pyatigorsk are more reminiscent of elite holiday homes with health improvement, or spa centers.

Here you can have a great rest with the whole family, because the list of services of Pyatigorsk health resorts includes not only baths and massages. It organizes a cultural program for vacationers, animation for children, full board meals, saunas, gyms, and film screenings.

The famous walking trails - health paths - are recognized as a separate way of healing in Pyatigorsk. Walking along them is equivalent to treatment; walking along certain routes is even recommended by doctors in Pyatigorsk sanatoriums, depending on the patient’s health condition. An additional healing factor is the clean air of the resort, as well as breathtaking natural scenery.

Pedestrian path in Pyatigorsk

In Pyatigorsk, 3 main health path routes have been developed. The general beginning of the routes is located at mineral spring No. 20, opposite the Tarkhany sanatorium. There is also an information board there that tells about the ecological trails.

Route No. 1 will take you past the Mikhailovskaya Gallery, the famous Proval, the site of Lermontov’s duel. After the Radon Clinic you need to go down steeply and your circular route is complete. Its length is about 10 kilometers.

Route No. 2 duplicates the first one, but goes in the opposite direction. Due to this, it is more labor-intensive, but just as spectacular.

Route No. 3 starts along the second route, then turns to the top of Mount Mashuk. Its length is already about 11 kilometers.

All these walks along the paths can be considered not only as health procedures, but also as tourist attractions: many resort attractions are located along the routes.

Read more: Galleries and drinking springs of Pyatigorsk

Population

Today Pyatigorsk is a famous resort city where people of different nationalities live. As of 2014, the population of Pyatigorsk was 145.95 thousand people, and its density was 1.5 thousand people. per sq. m.

This is largely due to the fact that in 2011 4.5 thousand people moved here, having left other areas that are part of the Stavropol Territory, more remote areas, and also from abroad.

The trend is still that the population of Pyatigorsk is growing. In 2015, a ranking was compiled by population among Russian settlements. Pyatigorsk took 69th position.