Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan, home to the descendants of the nomadic Turkic tribe that wreaked particular havoc in ancient Rus.The atmosphere of this intriguing autonomous republic is redolent of Central Asia.
The spires of many mosques dot the skyline - including the grand Kul Sharif Mosque inside the historic kremlin.Nationalism is strong here - as evidenced by the bilingual signposts and the ubiquitous green, white and red of the Tatar flag.
Ethnic pride was particularly passionate in 2005, when the city celebrated 1000 years since its founding.
Many parks and buildings received a massive makeover in anticipation of the celebration, so the city centre is looking better than ever.Show in Lonely Planet
