Marxist historians often claim that pre-revolutionary Russia was a backward country and that the provinces lacked technology. However, if they had carefully studied pre-revolutionary newspapers, they would likely have no…

In the Russian Empire, purchasing a revolver, pistol, or carbine was a simple matter thanks to the legalized free sale of weapons. In Penza, at 35 Moskovskaya Street, such weapons could be acquired. The store located in…

The surnames of some Penza merchants were known as brands. Names like Budyulin, Finogeev, and Ashanin were associated with high-quality products. The products of Kuznetsov, who lived at 39 Moscow Street, were also very p…

In pre-revolutionary Penza, there were many diverse churches, which even amazed travelers. In addition to churches, the city also had chapels. One of the most revered was located behind house number 15 on Kirov Street. …

The only Museum of One Painting in the world might never have existed. In the 1980s, there were plans to demolish the building, but it was saved thanks to its successful inclusion in the architectural ensemble of the Vie…

Pawnshops have been popular for generations of city dwellers. Although parting with expensive and beloved items can be difficult, sometimes it is necessary due to financial hardships. In pre-revolutionary Penza, when mon…

Gothic architecture emerged in Europe in the 12th century, characterized by complex forms, richly decorated facades, and pointed decorative elements. In Penza, a similar structure can be seen at Slavy Street, 8. This ho…

The settlement of Akhuny got its name from the Tatar clergyman Sh.Kh. Potiyev, who in the late 19th century, holding the spiritual rank of akhun, founded a kumys farm near the office of the Zasursky forestry. Akhuny is l…

Today, the phrase "Penza cosmetics" may seem strange, but in the early 20th century, it had a completely different meaning. At 11 Moskovskaya Street, there was a specialized store offering cosmetics from Penza. This sto…

House number 17 on Moskovskaya Street, now known as Orlyonok, previously belonged to the city mayor Vasily Vyavil'skiy and was considered one of the most expensive in Penza. Vyavil'skiy acquired this house in 1888 and t…