Central Park of Culture and Recreation named after V. G. Belinsky

About museum

In 1821 the first city park was established, originally called the public garden. In 1911, on the 100th anniversary of V. G. Belinsky's birth, the park was renamed in his honor and a monument to the great native son was erected. Poets, writers, scientists, politicians, and well-known figures such as V. V. Mayakovsky, M. Y. Lermontov and others used to gather here. Today the park covers 12 hectares. It is the true heart of the city, as a protected forest once stood here in the 17th century. On the park grounds you can see unique natural monuments, including oaks that are as old as the city of Penza. Folk festivities, children's and family celebrations, sporting and environmental events are held here. A distinguishing feature of the park is the Ferris wheel, located at the city's highest point at 45° east longitude.