About
Kazan is the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, in Russia, and lies in the eastern part of the country, in what is generally regarded as Asia. It is a city where two cultures sit side by side: Russian and Tatar. Visitors notice this at once, as Orthodox churches and mosques stand within the same skyline and the same streets.
What the city offers
The historic Kazan Kremlin is the natural starting point for a visit. Its walls and towers enclose a fortified complex that shapes the old centre, and walking around it gives a clear sense of the city's long layering of history. Beyond the Kremlin, the city's mosques and churches are a focus for many travellers, each reflecting the faith and tradition of the community that built it.
Who the visit suits
- Travellers interested in how two cultures have shaped one city
- Those who enjoy historic architecture, from fortress walls to religious buildings
- Visitors who want to explore a regional capital away from the usual routes
Because the Kremlin and the religious buildings are close to one another, a visit can be planned around a single area, with time left to wander between them at an unhurried pace. Those interested in Tatarstan as a whole will find Kazan a useful base for understanding the republic's character.
Kazan is also known by its name in Russian, Казань. Before travelling, it is worth checking current opening times and visiting arrangements for the sites you plan to see, as these can change.
