World Cup City Guide: Saransk
Name in Russian: Саранск
Population: 297,415
Average June temperature: 16.8°C
History: Saransk is the capital city of the Republic of Mordovia, a federal subject of the Russian Federation. The name, 'Saransk', refers to the city's situation on the Saranka river. A fortress was founded at the location in 1641 and at the time it was one of the outposts of the Russian Empire. It was granted town status in 1708 and expanded continually from there. The city centre was entirely rebuilt during the Soviet period, and large residential areas were constructed. Since the breakup of the Soviet Union, the population has shrunk as many people move to larger urban centres. French actor, Alain Depardieu, has been a resident of the city since 2013.
What to do: The Cathedral of St. Theodore Ushakov, an orthodox church, is a fine example of Russian architecture and people often gather outside in front of a monument to the Family. In addition, the city centre contains many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries - although they are in need of repair. The city is also home to several theatres.
Distance from Moscow: 390 miles
Stadium: Mordovia Arena (Capacity: 44,442)
It is a simple bowl shaped stadium with a capacity of just over 44,000 for the tournament. It will be reduced to 28,000 after the World Cup, and FC Mordovia Saransk will play their home games here. The stadium, which was completed only recently, will take tourists far from the beaten track. The outer colours of the stadium's shell will be white and orange, to represent warmth and hospitality from the city to its guests.
Matches due to be played here:
16 June 2018 19:00 – Peru vs Denmark – Group C
19 June 2018 18:00 – Colombia vs Japan – Group H
25 June 2018 21:00 – Iran vs Portugal – Group B
28 June 2018 21:00 – Panama vs Tunisia – Group G
World Cup Host City Guides:
Saransk
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