Saransk

Saransk is the capital of Mordovia and it gained a degree of fame during the 2018 FIFA World Cup when it became a host-city. It was the smallest and least famous of the host-cities and not an obvious choice, but the legacy of this event can be seen in the new international-level stadium and many new sporting venues and academies, as Saransk aims to become a sporting centre of Russia. As the Mordovian capital it is also a showcase of the culture of the Mordvins, who are really two related but separate people: the Mokshas and Erzyas.

Basic facts
Name in Russian
Саранск
Status
Capital of the Republic of Mordovia
Location
On the River Insar
Distance
280km south of Moscow, 630km south-east of Moscow
Time Zone
Moscow Time
Population
299,195 people (2014)
Founded
1641
City Day
12 June
Official Website
http://www.adm-saransk.ru/