Academic Gallery


This attractive classical building is perched above the eastern terminus of pr Kirova. It was built in 1851 to house one of Pyatigorsk’s best-known springs, No 16 (currently closed). It was here that Pechorin first set eyes on Princess Mary in Lermontov's novel A Hero of Our Time.

Inside one wing of gallery is the Insect Museum housing a small collection of critters (spiders, snakes, frogs) as well as a lovely butterfly collection from around the globe.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Insect Museum

This small museum houses a small collection of critters (spiders, snakes, frogs) as well as a lovely butterfly collection from around the globe.

2. Park Tsvetnik

0.23 MILES

This lovely wooded park with many architectural and monumental features forms a 1km-long arc around the eastern end of pr Kirova on the lower slopes of Mt…

3. Bronze Eagle

0.33 MILES

A network of paths in Park Tsvetnik leads to this much-photographed bronze eagle sculpture at the top of a hill.

4. Drinking Gallery

0.33 MILES

You can sample the local mineral water (small/large cups R2/5) here. It tastes rather sulphurous, but the best reasons for dropping in are the wonderful…

6. Diana's Grotto

0.36 MILES

This is a favourite viewing and strolling spot for locals.

7. University

0.4 MILES

Adjacent to the drinking gallery is the university, which has some expressive gargoyles and bas-reliefs on its upper facade.

8. Lermontov Museum

0.47 MILES

Many Pyatigorsk attractions revolve around larger-than-life writer, poet, painter, cavalry soldier, society beau and duellist Mikhail Lermontov. Chief…