Permyak-Solenyye Ushi

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Description

Permyak-Solenyye Ushi, also known as the Permyak Salty Ears monument, is one of those quirky, oddly charming landmarks that you can’t help but smile at. Standing right along a busy pedestrian street in the heart of Perm, this sculpture isn’t grand or imposing—it’s playful, funny, and full of local flavor. Created in 2006, it’s actually a two-piece installation: one part features a bronze figure of a photographer, and the other, a large pair of bronze ears mounted on a frame. And yes, you’re supposed to stick your head through those ears for a photo. Everyone does it. It’s practically a rite of passage for anyone visiting Perm.

The story behind it is even better. The “salty ears” nickname comes from an old stereotype about the salt workers of Perm. Back when salt mining was a big deal here, locals joked that the workers’ ears would swell from constant exposure to salt. Rather than shy away from that history, the city decided to celebrate it with humor. The result? A monument that’s both a nod to local heritage and a magnet for travelers looking for a fun photo op.

What I personally love about this sculpture is how it captures the Perm spirit—down-to-earth, a little self-deprecating, and totally unpretentious. It’s not about grandeur; it’s about personality. You’ll often see families laughing together as they pose, kids tugging on the photographer’s coat, and tourists waiting their turn to “get their ears salted.” It’s one of those places where you can feel the city’s sense of humor and pride all at once.

Key Features

• Two-part bronze sculpture: a photographer figure and a separate frame with oversized ears.
• Symbolic reference to the city’s salt-mining history and the nickname “Permyak Salty Ears.”
• Popular photo spot for tourists and locals alike.
• Located in a lively pedestrian area surrounded by shops, cafes, and street performers.
• Accessible to visitors with mobility needs; the area is flat and wheelchair-friendly.
• Family-friendly attraction—kids especially love the interactive aspect.
• Free to visit, open 24/7, and well-lit at night for evening photography.

Best Time to Visit

Honestly, there’s no bad time to see the Permyak-Solenyye Ushi, but if you want the best experience, aim for late spring through early autumn. The weather’s more forgiving, and you’ll find the nearby promenade buzzing with life. Street musicians, ice cream stands, and local artists add to the atmosphere. In winter, the sculpture takes on a whole new charm—frost clings to the bronze, and the entire street sparkles with snow. But be warned, it gets cold. Like, really cold. If you’re visiting in January, make sure you’ve got gloves thick enough to hold your camera without freezing your fingers off.

I once visited in early May, right when the city was waking up from winter. The air still had that crisp edge, but people were out in light jackets, smiling, snapping photos, and sipping coffee from paper cups. The light hit the bronze just right, and you could see your reflection in the photographer’s camera lens. It’s those small details that make the moment memorable.

How to Get There

Getting to the Permyak Salty Ears monument is straightforward. The landmark sits along one of Perm’s main pedestrian streets, which means you can easily reach it by foot if you’re exploring the city center. For those coming from farther out, public transport options like buses and trams stop nearby. If you’re staying in a local hotel, chances are it’s within walking distance.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also reliable here, and the drivers usually know exactly where to go if you just say “Permyak Salty Ears.” I once hopped in a cab, mentioned the name, and the driver laughed—he said he’d taken at least five tourists there that day already. It’s that kind of place; everyone knows it, everyone’s been there, and everyone’s got a story about it.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re planning a stop at the Permyak-Solenyye Ushi, here are a few things I’ve learned from experience (and from watching countless other visitors have their moment with those famous ears).

• Go early or late: Midday can get crowded, especially on weekends. Early morning light makes for the best photos anyway.
• Bring a friend: It’s much easier to get that perfect shot when someone else is behind the camera—unless you’re a selfie pro.
• Take your time: Don’t just snap a photo and leave. Watch how locals interact with the sculpture; it’s part of the fun.
• Explore nearby: The surrounding area is full of cafes, souvenir shops, and small art galleries. Grab a coffee and people-watch for a while.
• Dress for the weather: Perm’s climate can be unpredictable. Bring layers if you’re visiting outside summer.
• Be respectful: It’s a playful spot, but remember it’s also tied to the city’s cultural identity. Treat it with a bit of reverence… and a sense of humor.

A small but handy tip—if you’re traveling with kids, this is a great place to let them burn off some energy. The open pedestrian zone is safe, and there’s usually something happening nearby to keep them entertained. And if you’re a photographer (amateur or pro), you’ll love the contrast of bronze against the colorful city backdrop. The reflections, the angles, the people—it’s a living, breathing photo opportunity.

What makes the Permyak-Solenyye Ushi special isn’t just the sculpture itself, but the way it brings people together. It’s one of those rare attractions that manages to be both humorous and meaningful. It celebrates a piece of local history while inviting everyone—locals and tourists alike—to share in the joke. You leave not just with a photo, but with a little story to tell.

So when you’re wandering through Perm and you spot those shiny bronze ears, don’t hesitate. Step up, lean in, and smile. You’ll be part of a long tradition of travelers who’ve done the same, and you’ll walk away with a memory that’s uniquely, wonderfully Perm.

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