Krasnodar in 3 Russian words

Gateway to Russia

Jun 23 2026

G. Dyachuk/Kuban inform/TASS

This city ranks among the ten most populous and fastest-growing cities in the country and is one of its leading economic centers. It’s often dubbed the "capital of Southern Russia". Here are three of its main symbols.

1. ЦАРСКИЕ ВОРОТА (The Tsar's Gate)

Vitaly Timkiv/Sputnik

The Alexander Triumphal Arch, also known as the Tsar's Gate, was erected in 1888 for the arrival of Emperor Alexander III. It was decorated with imperial gilded double-headed eagles, while icons and oil lamps were placed inside. The structure was demolished in 1928 and rebuilt only 80 years later.

2. КАЗАКИ (Cossacks)

Vitaly Timkiv/Sputnik

Founded in 1793 by Cossacks, Krasnodar is now the capital of the Kuban Cossack Host (Army). The city features monuments to the Cossacks, hosts performances by a Cossack choir and is home to the ‘Kazak’ (‘Cossack’) FM radio station. When the Cossacks hold a parade in Krasnodar, it’s always a vibrant and important event in the city's life.

3. СВЯТО-ЕКАТЕРИНИНСКИЙ КАФЕДРАЛЬНЫЙ СОБОР (St. Catherine's Cathedral)

Vitaly Timkiv/Sputnik

This is considered to be the most important cathedral in Kuban and one of the largest churches in Russia. It can accommodate up to 4,000 worshippers. During the Soviet era, the cathedral was used to repair aircraft engines and even house small planes. During the perestroika era in 1988, bells rang from it for the first time in many years.