The Republican Unified Local History Museum, opened for residents of Saransk in 1919, is considered to be one of the oldest cultural institutions in Mordovia. Since its foundation the museum has managed to replace five historic buildings. Since 1935 the exposition has been located in the former Three-Sainted Church.
One should visit the local history museum of Saransk simply to understand such a phenomenon as provincial museums of Russia. Its collection is more than modest. Here you can see stuffed animals and birds inhabiting Mordovia as well as national costumes, ancient coins and books, household items and weapons. Saransk residents like to visit this museum which is especially popular among young families with young children. After all, children like to look at animals even if they are not real.