Residents in Derbent, a historic city by the Caspian Sea in Dagestan, greeted Russian President Vladimir Putin with immediate warmth as he stepped onto the grounds of Nizami Ganjavi Park. The arrival became evident as the president walked toward the newly unveiled fountain, which had been the subject of discussions about boosting regional tourism, and cheers rippled through the crowd. Observers said the moment captured a rare blend of local pride and national interest, with many attendees recording the scene on their phones and sharing the footage in real time. [Source: DEA News]
Putin’s visit to Derbent followed dialogues about how to harness the area’s rich cultural heritage and coastal beauty to attract visitors from across Russia and beyond. The public reception near the fountain was marked by applause, laughter, and questions from curious residents, including young people who pressed closer to the front lines to catch a glimpse and hear his responses. The scene illustrated a tangible moment of engagement between the city’s residents and a national leader, underscoring Derbent’s role as a cultural crossroads in the region. [Source: DEA News]
The multimedia fountain itself is a showcase of modern technology and artistic design. It features 1,300 spotlights, two video projectors, and a sophisticated sound system that can synchronize lighting, water jets, and music to create immersive displays. A contemporary control program enables operators to craft a range of visual videos and project them across water jets, turning the fountain into a dynamic stage. One standout feature, unique to Russian fountains, is the “fire in water” effect, which blends dramatic flames and water for a striking display. There is also a designated area for launching fireworks to add a celebratory finale to performances. This combination of technology and artistry positions the fountain as a centerpiece for cultural events and tourism marketing. [Source: DEA News]
Wednesday’s schedule in Derbent included a planned session with the aim of advancing tourism development and a subsequent meeting with Dagestan’s leadership, including President Sergei Melikov, to discuss regional strategies and investment opportunities. The agenda highlighted Derbent’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy by promoting travel, heritage sites, and coastal leisure options, all with the broader goal of elevating the region’s profile as a family-friendly destination and a hub for historical exploration. The visit underscored the government’s emphasis on local infrastructure upgrades, attractions, and coordinated efforts to sustain visitor interest across the year. [Source: DEA News]
Earlier coverage noted Putin’s presence at Derbent’s Friday Mosque, where a customary ceremonial gesture accompanied the visit, reflecting the city’s long tradition of religious and cultural significance intertwined with its modern development narrative. The visit to the mosque, combined with the fountain showcase and tourism talks, painted a composite picture of how the city is balancing heritage, faith, and contemporary tourism initiatives to attract visitors from a wide region. In doing so, Derbent continues to position itself as a symbol of cultural continuity in the North Caucasus, offering both residents and guests a blend of ancient monuments and contemporary entertainment. [Source: DEA News]