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Kazan

The city of Kazan is considered to be the third Russian capital, older than Moscow. Kazan, located on the banks of the largest river in Europe - the Volga, is the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan - a multi-ethnic area where you can see a mix of races and cultures, unique architecture, and enjoy authentic national cuisine. A part of the population is Muslim and the other - Orthodox.

The city of Kazan was founded in 1005. Apart from historical part of the city, where the ancient Kazan Kremlin and charming Qol-Sharif Mosque are located, one can stroll through the pretty streets of Kazan and visit the Temple of All Religions or the Universal Temple, made up of various types of religious architecture, including an Orthodox church, a mosque, and a synagogue. One of the best-known symbols of Kazan is the leaning tower of Siuyumbike. According to the legend if you lean your head or back against the tower as if you were 'holding it' so that it does not fall, you can make a wish, which will soon come true.

Around Kazan there are also several interesting destinations. The melancholic island Sviyazhsk founded in 1551 as a fortress at the confluence of the Volga and Sviaga rivers, where you can see the Assumption Cathedral, a male monastery included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Another recommended excursion is to the religious sanctuary and the historical homeland of the Tatars of the Volga, known in the Muslim world as "Mecca of the North": the Great Bolgar with its famous White Mosque, where you can see the world's largest printed Koran book, it's weight is 800 kg and it is included in the Guinness World Records.