Dzerzhinsk, Russia

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Dzerzhinsk, Russia

Region: Nizhny Novgorod Oblast


Geographic Coordinates: 56.233300, 43.450000
Temperature Range: -40.0°C to 30.0°C (-40°F to 86°F)
Climate: Cold and snowy winters, mild summers with occasional heat waves, and frequent rain throughout the year in Dzerzhinsk, Russia.
Population: 231797
Language: Russian

Dzerzhinsk is a city located in the Nizhny Novgorod Oblast of Russia, Situated on the banks of the Oka River, Approximately 400 kilometers east of Moscow. The city has a population of around 240, 000 people and covers an area of 60 square kilometers. Dzerzhinsk was founded in 1606 and has a rich history dating back to the time when it was part of the Russian Empire. The city’s economy is primarily based on chemical production, Which dates back to Soviet times when Dzerzhinsk became known as one of Russia’s major chemical centers.

The industrial complex in Dzerzhinsk produces various chemicals such as fertilizers, Plastics, And explosives. The city also has several research institutes that specialize in chemistry-related fields. Despite its industrial nature, Dzerzhinsk offers visitors plenty to see and do. One notable attraction is the Museum-Reserve Kulikovo Pole, Which tells the story of one of Russia’s most significant battles – Kulikovo Field – fought here in 1380 between Russian forces led by Dmitry Donskoy and Mongol-Tatar armies led by Mamai. Another popular attraction is Gorky Park, Which spans over 100 hectares along the Oka River bank.

The park features numerous recreational facilities such as sports fields, Playgrounds for children, Cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating areas offering stunning views over the river. The architecture in Dzerzhinsk also makes for an interesting sightseeing experience with many buildings reflecting different styles from different eras throughout history ranging from classicism to modernism. For those interested in religious sites or landmarks worth visiting while exploring this part of Russia are St Nicholas Cathedral built-in neo-Byzantine style during early Soviet times or Church Of St John Chrysostom built-in Baroque style during late Imperial period.

In conclusion, Dzerzhinsk may not be as well-known as other Russian cities such as Moscow or St. Petersburg, But it has a unique charm and history that makes it worth visiting. The city’s industrial heritage, Coupled with its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Make it an interesting destination for tourists looking to explore the lesser-known parts of Russia.



Important Landmarks

  1. Dzerzhinskaya Square: The central square of the city with a beautiful fountain and various sculptures.
  2. Monument to Felix Dzerzhinsky: A statue dedicated to the founder of the Soviet secret police.
  3. Museum of Local Lore: A museum showcasing the history and culture of Dzerzhinsk and its surrounding areas.
  4. Church of St. Nicholas: An Orthodox church built in 1905 that survived both World Wars.
  5. Park Pobedy (Victory Park): A large park with a memorial complex dedicated to those who fought in World War II.
  6. Krasnaya Gorka (Red Hill): A popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities with scenic views over the city.
  7. Nizhnekamsk Hydroelectric Power Station: One of the largest hydroelectric power stations in Russia located near Dzerzhinsk on the Volga River.
  8. Palace of Culture named after Lenin: An iconic building that serves as a cultural center for concerts, exhibitions, and other events in Dzerzhinsk.
  9. Tikhvin Cemetery: The final resting place for many notable people from Dzerzhinsk including artists, writers, scientists, and politicians.
  10. Sovetskiy Prospekt (Soviet Avenue): The main street in town lined with shops, cafes, restaurants and other businesses that offer visitors an authentic taste of Russian life today.

Primary Industries

  1. Chemical production
  2. Oil refining
  3. Machine building
  4. Metallurgy
  5. Food processing

The city is known for its large chemical plants that produce fertilizers, plastics, synthetic rubber and other chemicals. Some of the largest companies in Dzerzhinsk include:

  • Sibur-Neftekhim (petrochemicals)
  • Nizhnekamskneftekhim (synthetic rubber)
  • Azot (fertilizers)

Other notable businesses in the city include machinery factories producing equipment for various industries such as mining and construction.


Noteable History

  1. The city was established in 1916 as Rastyapino, named after a nearby railway station.
  2. Dzerzhinsk was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1941 to 1943 during World War II.
  3. The city is named after Felix Dzerzhinsky, a Soviet statesman who played a crucial role in establishing the Soviet secret police and security agency known as the Cheka.
  4. Dzerzhinsky is infamous for leading the Red Terror campaign during the Russian Civil War that resulted in thousands of executions and imprisonments.
  5. In modern times, Dzerzhinsk has gained recognition for its heavy industry, particularly chemical production.
  6. Notable individuals from Dzerzhinsk include Alexander Prokhorov (a Nobel Prize-winning physicist), Yuri Vlasov (an Olympic weightlifting champion), and Sergei Krikalev (a cosmonaut who spent over a year aboard space stations).
  7. Over time, several noteworthy cultural institutions such as theaters and museums have also been established within the city’s boundaries.

Overall, Dzerzhinsk’s history reflects both its industrial roots and deep connections to Soviet-era politics and culture.


Museums and Things To See

  1. Museum of Local Lore – This museum showcases the history and culture of Dzerzhinsk and its surrounding areas.
  2. Monument to Felix Dzerzhinsky – The city’s namesake is honored with a statue in the central square.
  3. Art Center Na Kashirke – This art center hosts exhibitions and events featuring local artists.
  4. Church of St. Nicholas – This beautiful Orthodox church is a must-visit for those interested in religious architecture.
  5. Victory Park – A large park dedicated to World War II veterans with monuments and memorials honoring their sacrifices.
  6. Museum of Chemical Industry – For those interested in science and technology, this museum showcases the history of chemical production in the region.
  7. House-Museum of Ivan Shadr – The former home of renowned artist Ivan Shadr has been turned into a museum showcasing his life and work.
  8. Central Market Square – A bustling market where visitors can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothing, and more from local vendors.
  9. City Garden Park – A lovely park with walking paths, fountains, and playgrounds for children etc..
  10. Museum Dzerzhinskiy Dom Kultury – This museum represents the cultural heritage of Dzerzhinsk city by showcasing various art collections such as paintings, sculptures etc..


Sports Teams

Sports Teams in Dzerzhinsk, Russia

  1. Football (soccer)
    • FC Khimik Dzerzhinsk
  2. Ice hockey
    • HC Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)
  3. Basketball
  4. Volleyball
  5. Handball
  6. Martial arts (boxing and wrestling)
  7. Athletics

FC Khimik Dzerzhinsk is one of the most successful football clubs from Dzerzhinsk. The team was founded in 1936 and played its home matches at Spartak Stadium until it was closed down due to safety concerns. In recent years, FC Khimik has struggled to maintain its position in the Russian Football National League due to financial difficulties.

Another notable team from Dzerzhinsk is HC Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Although not based directly in Dzerzhinsk but nearby Nizhny Novgorod city where many people from Dzherzinsky work or study for higher education purposes.

Sports are a significant part of life for residents of Dzerzhinsk who enjoy participating as well as supporting their local teams.



Cultural Events

  1. City Day: This celebration occurs annually on the first weekend of September and includes parades, concerts, fireworks, and other festivities.
  2. Victory Day: Celebrated every year on May 9th to commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
  3. Maslenitsa: A traditional Russian festival celebrated before Lent begins with activities like pancake eating contests.
  4. Nizhny Novgorod International Jazz Festival: Although not held directly in Dzerzhinsk, this event is a popular nearby festival featuring jazz musicians from around the world.
  5. International Women’s Day: March 8th is a national holiday celebrating women’s achievements and contributions to society.

It’s important to note that these are just some examples of cultural events and festivals that may occur annually or biannually depending on different factors such as local traditions or current circumstances etc..


Cuisine

  • Pelmeni is a traditional Russian dish that consists of meat-filled dumplings served with sour cream or butter.
  • Shashlik is a popular grilled meat skewer that is usually made with pork or beef.
  • Borscht is a beetroot soup that has become a staple in Russian cuisine.
  • Vareniki are similar to pelmeni but are filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, or fruit.
  • Cafe Kvartira is a cozy cafe that serves traditional Russian dishes such as borscht and pelmeni.
  • Restaurant Voskhod offers both European and Russian cuisine including shashlik and vareniki.
  • Bar Gorodok serves classic pub food along with local beers and spirits.
  • Cafe Shtolle is known for their delicious pastries including pirozhki (stuffed buns) and cakes.
  • Restaurant Ukrainskaya Kukhnya specializes in Ukrainian dishes such as varenyky (similar to vareniki) and salo (cured pork fat).
  • Pizzeria Mamma Mia offers various pizzas along with salads and pasta dishes for those who want something different from traditional Russian cuisine.

  • Parks and Recreation

    1. Park of Culture and Rest named after Kirov
    2. Central Park of Culture and Rest
    3. Park Victory
    4. Gorky Park
    5. Children’s park Kolosok
    6. Sports complex Spartak
    7. Ice Palace Crystal
    8. Municipal swimming pool
    9. Ski resort Lisya Gora
    10. Bowling club Strike

    Suitcase

    Enjoy The Journey.


Explore more:

Keelung, Taiwan

Reading Time: 5 minutes Keelung, Taiwan Region: Keelung Geographic Coordinates: 25.133300, 121.733000 Temperature Range: 17.0°C to 28.0°C (63°F to 82°F) Climate: Rainy and humid with occasional typhoons. Population: 370155 Language: Mandarin Keelung, Located in the northern part of Taiwan, Is a bustling port city

Read More »

Bādurpalle, India

Reading Time: 7 minutes Bādurpalle, India Region: Telangana Geographic Coordinates: 17.546800, 78.365000 Climate: Data not available. Population: 48835 Language: Telugu Bādurpalle is a quaint village located in the Ranga Reddy district of the southern Indian state of Telangana. Nestled amidst lush greenery and scenic

Read More »

Takasaki, Japan

Reading Time: 6 minutes Takasaki, Japan Region: Gunma Prefecture Geographic Coordinates: 36.321900, 139.003000 Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 35.0°C (14°F to 95°F) Climate: Seasonal. Population: 372639 Language: Japanese Takasaki is a city located in the Gunma Prefecture of Japan, Known for its rich cultural heritage

Read More »

Pākdasht, Iran

Reading Time: 4 minutes Pākdasht, Iran Region: Tehran Geographic Coordinates: 35.481700, 51.680300 Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 40.0°C (14°F to 104°F) Climate: Dry and hot summers, cold winters with occasional snowfall. Population: 236319 Language: Persian Pākdasht is a city located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of

Read More »

Gebze, Turkey

Reading Time: 6 minutes Gebze, Turkey Region: Kocaeli Geographic Coordinates: 40.800000, 29.433300 Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 30.0°C (50°F to 86°F) Climate: Gebze, Turkey has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters. Population: 371000 Language: Turkish Gebze is a

Read More »

Prayagraj, India

Reading Time: 6 minutes Prayagraj, India Region: Uttar Pradesh Geographic Coordinates: 25.435800, 81.846400 Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 40.0°C (59°F to 104°F) Climate: Prayagraj has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. Monsoon season occurs from June to September, with the heaviest

Read More »