Museum of Russian Expeditions

The unique museum, founded and curated by the regional branch of the Russian Geographical Society, was created with the aim of preserving and passing on the cultural heritage of Russian geographers, ethnographers and explorers, as well as to honour the local researchers who made significant contribution into the national science. Starting from the golden age of Russian discoveries and the foundation of the Russian Geographical Society in 1845 the visitors follow the history of intrepid voyages and the feats of our countrymen, learn about the contributions of our local heros into the exploration of Alaska, the Aleutian Islands, the Arctic, the Antarctic. Numerous photos, journals, maps, personal things - all of these exhibits help to bring the stories alive.
Among the famous travellers from Penza are Laverntiy Zagoskin, Yevgeiy Suzyumov, Tikhon Semushkin, Konstantin Badin, and others.  A great deal of attention is devoted to the history of adventure travel of people from Penza in the period from 1950 to 2010. The current activities of the Penza branch of the Russian Geographical Society are also highlighted. A special exhibition place is devoted to Alexander Samokutyayev, the astronaut and flight engineer from Penza, who was awarded the medal of ‘Hero of Russia’ for participation in several space missions. He is the honourable member of the Penza branch of the Russian Geographical Society.