Penza, Administrative center in Penza Oblast, Russia
Penza is a large city on the Sura River in Penza Oblast, approximately 390 miles (630 km) southeast of Moscow, spread across both banks and surrounded by forests and farmland. The city is divided into four districts and extends over several hills at an elevation of roughly 490 feet (150 m) above sea level.
The Russian government founded Penza in 1663 as a border fortress to protect against raids from the southeast, initially building wooden fortifications and merchant settlements. During the 18th and 19th centuries, it developed into an important trade center and transport hub in the region.
The city is a center of Russian theater tradition, where several stages present both classic and contemporary performances that draw enthusiastic local audiences. During summer months, families and strollers fill the parks along the Sura, where much of the social life concentrates on weekends.
The city has an extensive public transport network with buses and trolleybuses connecting all four districts, typically running from 6 AM to 11 PM. Main routes pass through the center, from where most points of interest can be reached on foot or with short rides.
The Nikolsky Crystal Factory produces glassware using traditional techniques from the 18th century, with pieces created through manual glass blowing. At the Museum of One Painting, visitors can experience a single masterwork through a 45-minute multimedia presentation that focuses exclusively on that work.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
