Sightseeing in Nalchik - what to see. Complete travel guide
Nalchik, like many cities of the county, was originally formed as a military settlement. Actually, it appeared not so long ago, in the 19th century. The official date of its foundation is 1818. Although, many historians doubt this date, as there are sources that confirm that the fortress was founded in 1822. Before the Russian military fortress was built on the territory of the city, there had been auls or mountain villages of the most powerful Kabardian dukes: Kuchuk Janhotov, Aslanbeck Kaytukin, and Jamhot Tatarhanov.
There are also arguments about the etymology of the city name but scientists agree that the city has delivered its name from the Nalchik River running through it. The Kabardian word “nalchik” means “horseshoe” and that is why it is a symbol of the city. Nalchik had been one of the important outposts of the border fortifications of the Caucasus line even before the Nalchik Fortress was built. Originally, the fortress was only a military settlement. The soldiers and officers of Jaeger regiments of different Russian governorates lived here.
This attracted more people to the settlement. They started to settle in the quarters divided according to the ethnicity. Mountain Jews preferred to live in a separate settlement that was a part of the large industrial village but was quite isolated. Not far from Nalchik, there was a big German settlement that had a serious impact on its culture. In the late 19th century, there were already 16 streets, a market square, and two boulevards on the territory of the city. The main street of the city was paved with cobblestone, planted with poplars, and illuminated with lights at nights. Today, Nalchik is one of the main cities of the Kabardino-Balkar Republic. It is a pearl of the Caucasus resorts, as there are over 100 different mineral springs on its territory.
Nalchik is notable for its wonderful natural beauties. You can admire all of them when walking through the Atazhukinsky Garden. The garden was named after King Atazhuko Atazhukin. Today, it is an outdoor entertainment center. Here, you can walk, admire rare plants and flowers, visit amazing viewing platforms and taste water from the local mineral spring. In the territory of the garden, there are several restaurants, cafes and a small zoo. This picturesque garden is the largest in the North Caucasus. There are children’s playgrounds and much free space for different sports entertainments.
One of the beautiful architectural monuments in Nalchik is the Cathedral Mosque. It is one of the few religious constructions in the world built in high-tech style. The facade of the mosque is faced with mirror tiles and its dome is painted in rich blue. The mosque minarets are 30 m high and the mosque itself is 21 m high. It is quite big and can seats up to 1 000 at the same time. The interior of the religious constructions is very interesting too. The mosque is decorated with ornamental stones and other materials of the local production.
The largest Orthodox temple in Nalchik is Marian Church finished not so long ago, in 2016. It was built in the Byzantium style. The temple occupies almost 800 m2. The main relic in the temple is the miraculous icon of Mary Magdalene that is associated with many incredibly interesting legends.
Fans of nature attractions have an opportunity to see the wonderful Chegem Waterfalls located in the immediate surroundings of the city. Actually, it is the cascade of waterfalls, the highest of which is 30 m high. Near the waterfalls, there are comfortable viewing platforms that will let you admire the cascade in all its beauty. One of the main peculiarities of the waterfalls is that you can admire them at any time of the year. They look very interesting even in winter when the water is frozen and you see huge ice blocks. As the waterfalls are very popular attractions here, there are a lot of interesting shops not far from them. Here, you can buy not only classic gifts, but also popular national products.
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City tours, excursions and tickets in Nalchik and surroundings
Reference information
Map of all parks
National and city parks around Nalchik
♥ National Park 'Alania' , 67.3 km from the center. On the map
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Sightseeing in Russia: things to see
The most famous resort destinations in Russia are Sochi, Anapa and Adler. These cities are also rich in numerous historic buildings and modern entertainment centers. Travelers are recommended to visit the dolphinarium, which is open in Adler. Here visitors will be able to see entertainment performances and shows. Besides dolphins, the shows feature seals and visitors can see a true king of the sea - a giant white whale. The tomb of Hercules remains the most unusual landmark of Anapa. It was discovered during archaeological excavations in 1975. The tomb belonged to Gorgippia, a noble family. It's more than 1500 years old and got such an unusual name because of beautiful drawings that feature scenes from myths about Hercules.
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All about Nalchik, Russia - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Nalchik, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Nalchik in few days.
