Saratov State University

Mistellius was founded by a group of contemporary artists in Saratov, which is known for it interesting artistic history. Artists such as Petrov-Vodkin, Kuznetsov, Borisov Musatov and Utkin lived and created their masterpieces here. These great traditions are not dead and today in Saratov there are many talented artists, photographers and ceramicists.

Saratov is located in the heart of Volga River Valley Region. Once the capital of the Lower-Volga region, it is now the centre of one of the biggest provinces in Russia.

Saratov was founded in 1590. The name of the city comes from the Tatar word Sary-Tau (Yellow mountain). During its 400 year history Saratov has served as the crossroads for many historical events and outstanding people. In the late 19th century Saratov became a regional centre for industry, trade, and culture.

Bridge across Volga river

The city's architecture has been influenced by both European and Asian cultures. The downtown has a large number of buildings built in provincial modern, pseudo-gothic and Moscow baroque style. The university campus, the covered market, the conservatory, Trinity (Troitsky) and The Spirit Coming Down (Dukhososhestvensky) Cathedrals are some of the best examples of these styles. Among the modern landmarks of Saratov is the 2.8 kilometre bridge connecting Saratov with Engels.

There are several art galleries in Saratov. The most renowned is the Radishchev Art Gallery. It possesses an extraordinary collection of old Russian, European, Russian avant-garde and Modern art. Art experts have called the gallery the "Volga Hermitage".