5 facts about the Kazan Kremlin (PHOTOS)
Fortresses called ‘kremlin’ exist not only in Moscow, but also in many other ancient Russian cities. In the 1,000-year-old capital of the Tatarstan Republic, the kremlin combines incredibly diverse architecture with political importance.
1. It existed even before the Russian tsar conquered Kazan
The former capital of the Kazan Khanate medieval state was conquered and incorporated into the Tsardom of Russia by Tsar Ivan the Terrible in 1552.
Kazan in the 17th century
However, a ‘kremlin,’ or, more precisely, a citadel, had existed on this site since approximately the 12th century. First, it was a fortress of the ancient state of Volga Bulgaria, then of the Golden Horde and, finally, of the Kazan Khanate.
Zilant dragon is a legendary Tatar creature and a symbol of the city of Kazan
The kremlin was rebuilt many times and was always at the center of events. It was under Ivan the Terrible that the stone fortress was built. By the way, it was built by the same architect who built St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow – Postnik Yakovlev and his associate Ivan Shiryai.
2. It has its own ‘Pisa Tower’
One of the most striking landmarks of the kremlin is the Syuyumbike Tower. The purpose and date of construction of this 58-meter building are still unclear. It was most likely a watchtower built in the mid-17th century on the city's highest point. Scholars suggest that a khan's minaret, destroyed during the capture of Kazan, previously stood in its place.
Tatar ruler Syuyumbike
There’s also a legend that the tower was built in just seven days by order of Ivan the Terrible – supposedly to impress female Tatar ruler Syuyumbike, whom he proposed to marry. But, she refused and, instead, threw herself from this tower.
Syuyumbike Tower
The main feature of the tower is that it leans by a whole two meters, as its foundation settled unevenly. Today, it has been reinforced and further tilting has been halted.
3. The heart of the kremlin is the Kul Sharif Mosque
This new mosque was opened in the kremlin in 2005 on the site of the one destroyed by Ivan the Terrible during the capture of Kazan. It was named after Kul Sharif, leader of the city's defense in 1552.
Kul Sharif mosque
The mosque, which can accommodate up to 1,500 worshippers, has a white marble facade, while the spires of the minarets, as well as the dome, shaped like a traditional Kazan Cap, are turquoise. The interior, meanwhile, uses many Tatar national motifs and ornaments.
The Kul Sharif Mosque also houses the Museum of Islam.
4. The mosque literally stands next to an Orthodox church
Annunciation Cathedral and a monument to its architects
Ivan the Terrible not only destroyed the mosque, but also ordered the construction of the Annunciation Cathedral right inside the kremlin. For a long time, it was the cathedral of the Kazan diocese, where priests and bishops were ordained.
Orthodox holiday devoted to the Kazan Icon of Our Lady
The cathedral now houses the miracle-working relics of saints and a copy of the famous icon of the Our Lady of Kazan.
5. The Kazan Kremlin is the official residence of the Head of Tatarstan Republic
Governor's Palace became the residence of the republic's head
The kremlin has always been at the center of political life and always has been home to the rulers of Kazan. In the 19th century, the Governor's Palace was built there for the governor of the then Kazan Province. In the 1990s, the Republic of Tatarstan was formed within Russia and the palace became the residence of the head of the republic.
