The small resort town of Kislovodsk in the Caucasus has long been famous for its mineral springs that can cure dozens of diseases. But mountain air filled with aromas of coniferous forest is no less healthy. It is not surprising that the Temple of Air was erected here in Kislovodsk.
Historical reference
In the spring of 1914, the city leadership decided to build a pavilion in the Upper Park. At that time, they began to equip it, and vacationers strolled around the picturesque surroundings. The pavilion was necessary in order to shelter from the weather or just relax.
There is evidence that the site for construction was chosen on March 23 at the highest point in the eastern part of the park. In clear weather, Elbrus is visible from here and offers stunning views of the surroundings.
The project was brought to life by the outstanding Russian and Soviet architect Semenov. In April of the 14th year, building materials were brought to the site, and by the beginning of the season the building was completely ready and finished.
The new building is called the Air Temple in Kislovodsk. A year later, they decided to rename it the “Palace of Air”, but the historical name was preserved in the memory of the people, and was returned to the memorial object again a few years later.
The building survived the revolution and war. During the Soviet period, there was a cafe, a first-aid post, a rest room and a small library. A variety of city events were held nearby on Pervomaiskaya Polyana, and city residents and visitors strolled around the scenic spots, enjoying the beauty.
In April 1973, the lower cableway station, which is still operating today, was opened nearby.
Rebuilt from Ruins
During the reconstruction period, this object was abandoned and needed restoration. But there was no money to restore the budget. In 1986, the Temple of Air in Kislovodsk was closed, and the building was destroyed for almost three decades under the influence of winds and bad weather. In the XXI century, the Russian government decided to restore the resort town in the Caucasus and return it to the status of an all-Russian health resort.
The first item in the program was the restoration of this particular building. The builders erected a new building according to the old preserved drawings. And today the Air Temple in Kislovodsk, once again opened its doors to visitors.
Architectural solution
A photo of the Temple of Air in Kislovodsk conveys its airiness and harmony. This is a classic semiconductor with windows facing west. An open semicircular area with a flat roof is supported by six columns. A wide front staircase leads to it. On both sides, side rooms with high arched windows are attached to the pavilion.
The facade is decorated with stucco molding in the form of floral wreaths decorated with ribbons.
The structure resembles an ancient temple. It fits into the surrounding landscape and is also filled with air and light, like all nature.
Place of attraction
Here, on the top of the mountain, vacationers rushed a century ago. And today, the stream of people who want to look around from a dizzying height does not dry out. Almost every tourist who comes to Kislovodsk rises to this attraction to enjoy the views and make beautiful shots.
In the 70s, not far from the pavilion, the Temple of the Air restaurant was opened (Kislovodsk). He was very popular. A vocal-instrumental ensemble performing on the stage of the restaurant was known throughout the district. The musicians performed both famous hits and songs of their own composition. Several records were even recorded. This ensemble is still remembered by locals and carefully keeps old albums.
Nearby there is also a gazebo in which you can relax after descending from the mountain. Special pipes are mounted in its columns and in windy weather they produce melodic sounds. The music of the wind sounds, filling the neighborhood with harmony. In this gazebo there are many sunbathers and sunbathers at any time of the year.
How to get there
Vacationers can easily find out how to get to the Air Temple in Kislovodsk. For the convenience of tourists, there are many signs and other landmarks. First you need to get to the Resort Park, climb the Cascade Stairs and, after passing the Red Stones, turn left - to the Temple of Air. In the immediate vicinity there is a cable car station and a ticket office where you can buy tickets for the lift.
The building has a cafe and a first-aid post, where vacationers can measure pulse and pressure, or get first aid if necessary.
The Air Temple in Kislovodsk regains the status of one of the symbols of the city.