Nalchik is the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria, a republic in the North Caucasus, Russia. It is renowned for its mineral springs and healthy mountain air. Along with spa resorts, Nalchik offers great opportunities for rafting, rock climbing, snowboarding and paragliding.
With its elegant arches and huge gilded domes, St. Mary Magdalene’s Orthodox Church is an epitome of Byzantine architectural traditions. St. Mary Magdalene was a patron saint of Kabardian Princess Maria Temryukovna who was wedded to Ivan the Terrible. Locals honour the princess as their patron. Her 15-metre-tall statue dominates the monument Forever With Russia. The pedestal’s bas-relief tells the history of the nation.
Atazhukinsky Garden connects the spa hub and the historical core. Don’t be misled by the word ‘Garden’, though. In all but the name, it is a forest area occupying 250 hectares.
Enjoy its beautiful lakes, romantic gazebos and quiet alleys with a wide range of plants, from Japanese quince to ancient oaks to the Gingko tree. Here you can visit the amusement park and Nalchik Zoo. Green Theatre is the only open-air theatre in the North Caucasus. It can simultaneously seat 2,500 visitors.