Kazan, the capital of the Tatar Autonomous Republic (Tatarstan) is often called the “Pearl of the Central Volga Region”. Founded in the 13th century by the Mongols, who at that time occupied Russia, it served as the seat of the mighty Golden Horde or “Tatar” Empire. Presently, it is the city of million inhabitants (half Russian, half Tatar) and absolutely charming with a unique blend of the Muslim and Christian cultures. Kazan is the birthplace of the Russian opera singer Fyodor Chaliapin and of the great ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev.     |
