Sviyazhsk is a unique landmark of Tatarstan! Museum of the History of the Civil War. Church of St. Nicholas

There is a charming island-city of Sviyazhsk, reminiscent of fairy island Buyan. The sights of Sviyazhsk attract pilgrims from all over the Orthodox world who want to visit the numerous churches and monasteries located on its lands.

Looking back

The founder of the city was Ivan the Terrible, who, after another unsuccessful assault on Kazan, decided to establish a fortress city on these lands in order to be able to besiege the impregnable khan city for a long time. The place for an outpost here was ideal: a high hill washed by two rivers and surrounded by perennial swamps. The fortress was built in record time - in just four weeks! The construction of the fortress was carried out in the forests located 1000 kilometers upstream of the Volga, then it was dismantled and dragged to the Round Mountain, where the fortress was again assembled from a log, like a designer. At the same time, the first "spiritual" sights of Sviyazhsk were erected: the Nativity Cathedral (it was destroyed by fire in 1795) and the Trinity Church. After the capture of Kazan, all managerial functions were transferred to her, and only the title of the first Christian monastery of the Kazan diocese was assigned to Sviyazhsk.

Sviyazhsk became an island relatively recently: in 1955, after the construction of the Kuibyshev nuclear power plant, the middle course of the Volga was turned into a reservoir, with the waters of which a large number of villages were flooded. However, Sviyazhsk was more fortunate: located on Krutaya Gora, it retained its historical center above the surface of the Volga, turning into an island.

Attractions of the island

Sviyazhsk Island is famous for its Christian architectural monuments, but not only they are of interest to visitors. Deserves no less attention amazing nature this Volga region. Life here flows measuredly, calmly and peacefully, from almost every point of the island there are magnificent views of the river surface, which you can look at for an infinitely long time. The air of the island is filled with silence, grace and tranquility. However, the main purpose of a visit to the island of Sviyazhsk is to visit churches and monasteries, perfectly preserved from past centuries.

Holy Trinity Church

The very first church of the island, erected in 1551 during the construction of Sviyazhsk. This is the only wooden temple on the island and the oldest church within the Volga, which has survived to this day. The temple was literally built without a single nail thanks to a special technology of laying logs. In the second half of the 17th century, the building of this landmark of Sviyazhsk underwent significant changes in the interior, retaining only the iconostasis intact, and at the beginning of the 19th century, the temple was placed on a brick plinth, sheathed with boards and painted with oil paint, hiding the true beauty of this building. However, during the restoration work in 2010-2012, the Trinity Church returned to its original appearance.

Inside the temple, coolness and twilight reigns, from each log it breathes antiquity. Now the church operates only as a museum, the entrance to the inside is paid.

Dormition Monastery

Another architectural monument that Sviyazhsk is proud of. The monastery has a unique historical and architectural value, which has no equal in the entire Middle Volga region. On its territory there are two ancient temples built in the middle of the 16th century almost immediately after the construction of the fortress here. These are St. Nicholas Church with a high bell tower, which is now open exclusively to monks, and the Assumption Cathedral. Of particular value to art critics is the latter, built in the style of Pskov churches, and its frescoes. In the 18th century, the temple received a new dome and patterned baroque kokoshniks, but otherwise its appearance remained unchanged.

Inside the cathedral, a complete unique cycle of wall paintings from the era of John IV (dating back to 1561) has been preserved. This is one of two examples of 18th-century fresco painting in Russia. The frescoes cover an area of ​​about 1080 square meters. m, the most famous compositions: “Saint Christopher” (the only fresco in the world with a non-canonical image of a saint), “Procession to Paradise”, “Assumption of the Mother of God” in the altar, “Fatherland” on the dome and “Crucified Christ on the chest of God” on vault of the church.

In addition to the ancient churches, there are other sights of Sviyazhsk built in the 17th-18th centuries on the territory of the monastery. In the Soviet years, as part of anti-religious propaganda, the Ascension Church and the Church of Herman of Kazan were destroyed. On the territory of the monastery in the Soviet years there was a correctional labor colony and a prison of the NKVD.

Church of Sergius of Radonezh

The city of Sviyazhsk - a museum under open sky. One of its wonderful "exhibits" is the Church of Sergei Radonezh, dating from the XVI-XVII centuries. Outwardly, this church is very simple, made of white hewn stone of various sizes without any decorations. A green dome rises above the southeastern part of the temple, and a small bell tower is located diagonally from it. On the western wall of the temple you can see the remains of fresco painting.

The church is built on the second floor, the lower floor was used as a warehouse for the monastery economy, there is also an opinion that earlier monastic cells were located here.

Initially, it was a double-altar church, but at the end of the 18th century the building was given to the women's community, and another throne with a chapel was added to the church.

The interior decoration of the temple was practically not affected by the time. A single-tiered carved iconostasis, painted in the Old Russian style, has been perfectly preserved here. The relics of St. Herman. In the middle part of the castle, as in ancient times, there is a fraternal refectory.

Cathedral of Our Lady "Joy of All Who Sorrow"

The most impressive cathedral was built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries in the neo-Byzantine style, which was popular in Russia at that time. The appearance of the temple has not changed much, and even now it resembles a multi-tiered tower with a hemispherical dome. Only one row survived from the five-tier iconostasis, the oil painting of the cathedral was almost completely lost, but in this moment work is underway to restore it.

A magnificent flower garden was laid out near the temple by the hands of the nuns.

How to get there

Going to Sviyazhsk (we will tell you how to get here a little later), it is worth taking water and something to eat with you, because there are only two cafes on the island, the service in which leaves much to be desired. Also, do not forget that the monasteries of the island are active, you should behave and dress accordingly.

There are two ways to get to the island: from the railway station by car across the dam or by boat departing from the Sviyazhskaya pier in Kazan. The second option is much more interesting, because it provides an opportunity to enjoy beautiful views of the powerful and full-flowing Volga for about two hours.

Sviyazhsk is a truly holy place for Christians, the air of which is filled with bell ringing and prayers. A walk around the island, where the most ancient and unique temples of the Volga region are located, will remain in your memory for a long time.

How to get to Sviyazhsk from Nizhny Novgorod

Sviyazhsk is located on a picturesque island at the confluence of two rivers - the Pike and the Sviyaga, 30 km from Kazan.

To Sviyazhsk by bus can be reached from Kazan. From the Kazan bus station at 09.00 there is a minibus No. 532 to Sviyazhsk, the journey time is approximately 30-40 minutes. It is better to check the schedule for a specific day at the bus station.

To Sviyazhsk by boat can be reached from Kazan. From the river station in Kazan in the summer, every day at 08.20 there is a boat to Sviyazhsk. The ship leaves Sviyazhsk for Kazan at 16.30.Travel time is approximately 2 hours. There are also guided tours on weekends. Check the schedule for a specific day at the river station in Kazan.

To Sviyazhsk by car from Nizhny Novgorod - along the M-7 highway in the direction of Kazan. Before reaching ~30 km to Kazan, near the village of Isakovo turn towards Sviyazhsk (there is a new road junction). Follow the signs to the dam, then follow the dam to the island. You can leave the car downstairs, climb the stairs - and you are already on the square in front of the monastery.

The distance from Nizhny Novgorod to Sviyazhsk is approximately 350 km.

Sviyazhsk is a small island, 3-4 hours is enough time for a leisurely sightseeing of the town. A visit to Sviyazhsk can be combined with a trip to Kazan and Cheboksary.

Driving directions Nizhny Novgorod - Sviyazhsk

Map-scheme of Sviyazhsk

Bus tours to Kazan and Sviyazhsk from Nizhny Novgorod

From Nizhny Novgorod in the summer and in holidays bus tours to Kazan and Sviyazhsk are organized.

History of Sviyazhsk

The history of Sviyazhsk began in 1551. In those days, there was a struggle between the Moscow kingdom and the Kazan Khanate for dominance in the Volga region. Repeatedly Ivan the Terrible made attempts to defeat Kazan Khanate, but even despite the numerical superiority and artillery, it was not possible to take Kazan. was needed well fortified fortress near the enemy capital in a hard-to-reach place. And such a place was found - Round Mountain in the middle of rivers and swamps. But since it was impossible to quietly carry out work on the construction of a fortress on foreign territory, it was decided to cut the fortress in the Uglich forests, and the finished logs to be floated down the Volga to the place planned for construction. As a result, the Sviyazhsk fortress "grew" behind enemy lines in less than a month! And in terms of size, the newly-made fortress surpassed even the Moscow and Novgorod Kremlins!

So Sviyazhsk became an outpost of the troops of Ivan the Terrible during the capture of Kazan in 1552. But his mission did not end there: after the annexation of Kazan, Sviyazhsk became the center for the spread of Christianity and helped to convert non-Christians to Orthodoxy. Over time, Sviyazhsk gradually turned into a classic county town with quiet streets, colorful houses and domes of churches. So he would have lived an inconspicuous life for himself, if not for the events of 1918, which involved this wonderful town in a chain of tragic events.

After the October Revolution, Leon Trotsky was sent to Sviyazhsk in order to defeat the White detachment, which had retreated to Kazan. And the quiet peaceful Sviyazhsk was overwhelmed by a wave of terror. Executions began: first, the Red Army soldiers were shot for not being able to drive the White Guards out of Kazan, then the abbots of the monasteries, monks and priests were destroyed. Instead of monasteries, a children's boarding colony appeared, later - an NKVD prison. And again executions, executions... During the 10 years of operation of the Gulag political prison in Sviyazhsk, more than 5,000 repressed people died. In the 1930s, 6 of the 12 churches in the city were destroyed. By the middle of the 20th century, Sviyazhsk finally fell into disrepair.

The first steps towards the revival of Sviyazhsk began in the 60s of the last century. Restoration work began in the temples of Sviyazhsk, the restoration of the unique frescoes of the Assumption Cathedral was carried out. In 1997, the Assumption Monastery resumed its activities. Sviyazhsk Island was declared a monument of history and culture.

But interesting fact! Sviyazhsk became an island only in 1957! It was then that the Kuibyshev reservoir was created, which swallowed up the surrounding lands, but could not sink the legendary hail. Sviyazhsk still proudly rises on the outskirts of Kazan: Small town with an amazing fate.

A few years ago, the only way to get there was by river. But not so long ago a dam was built connecting the island with the mainland. In Sviyazhsk began new life: buildings began to be restored, the river station was renovated, roads were built, crafts are being revived and developed in the city. Currently, Sviyazhsk is an island-museum where the old is carefully preserved and the new is brought in, where everyone new house built with an eye on ancient monuments, and the benefits of civilization do not spoil the charm of a small merchant town.

Attractions Sviyazhsk

The main attractions of Sviyazhsk include the Assumption Monastery, John the Baptist Monastery, ethnographic complex The horse yard, as well as the center of Sviyazhsk with merchants' mansions (by the way, the layout of the center has not changed much since the 19th century).

Sviyazhsk sightseeing map

Dormition Bogoroditsky Monastery

The Assumption Monastery is the first to meet visitors along the dam: the white-stone walls of the monastery, similar to the Kremlin, and the bell tower are visible even at the entrance, the monastery is located when climbing into the city immediately on the left side. The monastery was founded in 1555. The Assumption Cathedral and St. Nicholas Church have been almost completely preserved (now the restoration work is almost completed). Assumption Cathedral in its current form was rebuilt in the 18th century in the Baroque style. But his unique frescoes preserved since the time of Ivan the Terrible. A fresco depicting St. Christopher is considered the only one in the world where the dog-headed saint is depicted contrary to the canons in the form of a warrior with a horse's head.

St. Nicholas Church is interesting, which is a rare type of church-bell tower. This is the oldest (16th century) and most high building in Sviyazhsk, it is it that is very clearly visible at the entrance to the city.

After the October Revolution, the monastery was closed. In Soviet times, a children's colony was located on its territory, and later a psychiatric hospital. Only in 1997 the monastery began to operate again, and restoration work continued for many more years.

You can enter the monastery through the Holy Gates. Free admission. Scarves and skirts are obligatory for women (issued at the entrance). The territory is large, well-groomed. On the territory there is a shop where they sell monastery bread.

Ethnographic complex "Horse Yard"

John the Baptist Convent

John the Baptist convent was founded at the end of the 16th century. On the existing place it was moved in the 18th century from another part of Sviyazhsk after severe fires. The oldest building of the monastery - Trinity Church - a unique monument of wooden architecture of the 16th century. This is the only building that has survived from the fortress of Ivan the Terrible, cut down in the Uglich forests and transported to Sviyazhsk by water! But the dominant feature of the monastery complex is the Cathedral of Our Lady of All Who Sorrow Joy, built in the neo-Byzantine style, very elegant, with a large silver dome. It was built at the beginning of the 20th century. Cathedral by appearance very similar to the Naval Cathedral in Kronstadt.

Island-city of Sviyazhsk- administratively this is a small village (only 252 inhabitants) in the Zelenodolsky district of the Republic of Tatarstan. But it is difficult to find a similar place with such a rich history. After all, Sviyazhsk is a city that conquered impregnable Kazan.

Novograd Sviyazhsky

Mid 16th century. Between the Moscow kingdom and the Kazan Khanate - a fierce struggle. Ivan the Terrible wants to conquer the Volga region at all costs.

The Kazan Khanate is in deep crisis. Practically the only outpost of resistance to Russian troops, outnumbering the enemy in numbers and artillery, is Kazan.

In 1550, the army of Ivan the Terrible made a second attempt to conquer the capital of the Kazan Khanate. Unsuccessful: too far from Moscow to regularly supply troops with provisions and weapons. But, returning home, the governors noticed in the middle of the river a high hill with steep slopes and a flat top (Kara-Kermen). The "find" was reported to the king.

Engraving after a drawing by M. I. Makhaev (mid-18th century).

Grozny immediately appreciated the strategic value of the hill. The hill is surrounded on almost all sides by water; it is only 26 versts from Kazan, but it is not visible from the city. Ivan IV came up with a cunning plan - to build a fortress that would become a transit point for Russian troops.

1,000 km before the alleged fortress, in the forests of Uglich, the tsar ordered the construction of a wooden kremlin. The order was fulfilled. And in the spring of 1551, when the Volga opened up from the ice, the tsar ordered the fortress to be dismantled, logs loaded onto rafts and floated to Kara-Kermen.

On May 24, 1551, Russian troops and hard workers landed on the island. Work began to boil: 75,000 people worked day and night. In less than a month, a powerful military fortress grew up on an overgrown, unsociable hill, surpassing even the Moscow Kremlin in size. Two churches were erected next - Trinity and Christmas, as well as numerous outbuildings. The city-fortress first received the name "Ivan-city", and then - "Novograd Sviyazhsky".

Island-city of Sviyazhsk.

What to see in Sviyazhsk?

In the second half of the 16th century, Sviyazhsk received the status of a county town: the population grew, crafts developed, new churches and houses were built.

By the beginning of the 18th century, the city became "monastic". Kazan took over all economic, political and administrative functions. In Sviyazhsk, there were two monasteries - Trinity-Sergievsky (later - John the Baptist) and Uspensky. The city was considered a stronghold of spirituality and beauty.

The revolution destroyed the harmony. In 1918, Trotsky arrived in Sviyazhsk - the Red Terror began. They executed priests, destroyed churches (from 1929 to 1930 they destroyed 6 out of 12 churches that existed in the city), closed both monasteries.

In Soviet times, Sviyazhsk became a "city of unnecessary people." In 1928, a correctional colony for difficult teenagers was placed in the cells of the Assumption Monastery, and in 1943, an NKVD camp. Later, these premises were converted into a psychiatric hospital.

Only in the 1960s, after the filling of the Kuibyshev reservoir, when Sviyazhsk became an island, did its cultural and historical revival begin.

Scheme of modern Sviyazhsk.

Today the island-city of Sviyazhsk is like a portal to the past. There is no public transport, industry and modern buildings - only the picturesque nature of the Middle Volga and numerous architectural monuments.

In total, there are about 20 old buildings on the island: some are well preserved, others are dilapidated. Of the existing buildings: the Assumption Cathedral (1556–1561), the bell tower of St. Nicholas Church (1556), the Sergius Church (XVII century), the Church of Constantine and Helena (XVI–XVIII centuries) and others.

Nicholas Church, Sviyazhsk .

Cathedral of the Icon of the Mother of God Joy of All Who Sorrow at the John the Baptist Monastery in Sviyazhsk.

Church of Constantine and Helena, Sviyazhsk.

The pearl of the island is the Trinity Church (1551) - the first Orthodox church on the Volga and the only building that has survived from the time of Ivan the Terrible. It was built from huge larch logs without a single nail in just one light day.

Of course, the church was completed. In the 19th century, the tent completion was replaced with an eight-slope roof, a porch was added, and the log walls were sheathed with hemp and painted ... The temple then looked faded and inconspicuous.

Trinity Church until 2009.

But in 2009, they decided to restore its historical appearance: they removed the paint, added a wooden terrace. They left only the tes (apparently, to protect the ancient logs from rain and snow). Now, not only inside, but also outside, the Trinity Church exudes the atmosphere of the era of Ivan IV. By the way, at the entrance to it there is a bench, on which, according to legend, the Terrible Sovereign himself sat.

Trinity Church now.

What to do in Sviyazhsk?

As in others historical places, the main "entertainment" in Sviyazhsk is sightseeing of architectural sights. This can be done both independently and using the services of professional guides.

The latter organize various excursion programs, including interactive ones (with historical performances and theatrical performances).

So, many such events are held by the State Historical, Architectural and Art Museum "Island-city of Sviyazhsk" (the program for 2015 can be found on their official website).

In 2012, after reconstruction, the Horse Yard was opened, the construction of which dates back to the 16th century. In tsarist Russia, it served as an inn for visitors, and in Soviet times - a utility block. Now the Horse Yard is an ethnographic center where you can plunge into the atmosphere of antiquity.

Horse yard.

A craft settlement was organized on its territory, where you can watch how horseshoes are forged, clay pots are made and fishing baskets are woven.

Craft freedom.

By the way, fishing is one of the main occupations of local residents to this day (even on the coat of arms of the city - fish). It is understandable: there is no industry, for Agriculture Little space, but plenty of water.

Sviyazhsk stands on the spot where the Sviyaga River flows into the Volga; navigation starts in April and ends in October. Almost all local residents have boats - in summer the Volga banks are literally strewn with fishing enthusiasts.

“Hunt” for pike and bream come even from other regions. Men joke: “Sviyazhsk - perfect place for fishing with my wife. She is in the city on an excursion, and you are calmly waiting for the bite.

How to get to Sviyazhsk?

Previously, it was possible to get to Sviyazhsk only by water. But in 2008, a dam with an asphalt road was built, which connected the island with the "mainland". Now you can get to the village both by river and land transport.

Motor ships at the pier of Sviyazhsk.

On water

In summer, a passenger ship runs daily along the route Kazan River Station - Sviyazhsk .

Departure time: 8:20
Arrival time: 10:30
Ticket price: 100 rubles. (tickets sold one hour before departure, prices 2014)

In the evening at 16:30 the ship departs back and arrives in Kazan at 18:45.

On weekends there are also additional sightseeing tours.

In addition, you can swim to Sviyazhsk on motor boat or by boat from nearby Vasilyevo or Vvedenskaya Sloboda.

On the ground

Sviyazhsk is located 30 km from Kazan - 40 minutes by car. You can find directions online or use a navigator. But you can’t drive into the village by car - parking is provided below for cars.

Parking.

By railway

Electric trains run regularly from the central railway station of Kazan to the Sviyazhsk railway station, which is 14 km from the island, in the village of Nizhniye Vyazovye. From there, you can get to the island-city by hitchhike or taxi.

Why is it worth seeing Sviyazhsk?

Sviyazhsk - small island embraced by the mighty waves of the great Russian river. In 1833 Pushkin visited Sviyazhsk. Since then, there has been a legend that the poet had in mind when describing Buyan Island in The Tale of Tsar Saltan. Of course, this is just a legend (Alexander Sergeevich wrote about the Swan Princess in 1831), but it is easy to believe in it, because Sviyazhsk really fabulous beauty Island. There you want to wander between churches and dilapidated houses, admire nature, stand on the shore and think about the past and the future.

Island-city of Sviyazhsk.

Sviyazhsk is a tiny village where most of the inhabitants are old people, but many world cities can envy its history. For more than 15 years, this place has been claiming to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Federal and local authorities are doing everything to make Sviyazhsk a "global treasure". But many of those who visited this city (not tourists, but ordinary connoisseurs of history) note that restoration work is sometimes carried out roughly, without respect for historical authenticity and respect for Russian culture (if only it looked like something old). That's why Sviyazhsk must be seen!…until it became a typical tourist ethnopark.

And finally: if you want to feel the silence and the historical grandeur of the island-town, go to Sviyazhsk in autumn or winter.

Sviyazhsk from the side of the dam.

Many are sure that it is the prototype of the fabulous Buyan Island, described by Pushkin in The Tale of Tsar Saltan. Tourists from all over Russia and other countries of the world come to this place at any time of the year.

Story

Ivan the Terrible himself decided to build a fortress city after a series of failed operations to take Kazan. It was necessary to create a stronghold to support the army. The island was washed on three sides by the waters of the rivers Pike, Sviyaga and Volga, from the elevated terrain - Round Mountain - distant approaches were visible, and most importantly - the island was located at a distance of a daily transition from the capital of the Kazan Khanate.

The fortress was built imperceptibly for the enemy. First, fortifications were built near Uglich. After that, they were dismantled and, with the onset of spring, the logs were floated along the Volga to the island, then dragged to the foot of the Round Mountain. It took one month to reassemble the fortress. The construction was led by the famous Russian architect of that time, Ivan Vyrodkov.

The city consisted of eighteen towers, residential buildings and Orthodox church. The fortress fully fulfilled its purpose: a year after its foundation, Kazan was taken.

Name history

Initially, the settlement was called "Novograd Sviyazhsky". The name of the town comes from the river Sviyaga. Over time, the original name was shortened.

The coat of arms of the city was approved only at the end of the 18th century. It is a shield, where a city is drawn, sailing on a ship, under which fish are depicted. This emblem fully reflects amazing story town buildings.

After the conquest of the capital of the Kazan Khanate, the town lost its military significance. Soon the island became a quiet monastic place. With the advent of Soviet power, the history of the town changes dramatically. It was almost completely looted. After a while, prisons and correctional camps were built on the site of temples and monasteries.

Nowadays, the island of Sviyazhsk has been turned into one of the key attractions of the Republic of Tatarstan. Travelers are greeted by white-stone monasteries and golden domes of temples. Miracle Island hospitably welcomes tourists. Attractions attract travelers from all over the country.

Attractions

The city has a rich history. On its territory is great amount religious Orthodox buildings. Be sure to visit:

There are also many unpreserved places of worship in the town. The places where they were located are marked with signs. Most of these churches look like ruins today. The destroyed temples include the following: St. Sophia and Nikolskaya churches, the Church of the Annunciation Holy Mother of God, Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Annunciation Parish Church, Gateway Church of the Ascension, Fraternal Corps and Church of St. Herman. Almost all of them were destroyed in the first half of the 20th century by the Bolsheviks.

The city is associated with a legend about a monument allegedly discovered on the territory of Soviet Russia Judah. The installation of the monument was supposedly personally directed by Leon Trotsky. This famous revolutionary was sometimes called the "demon of the revolution."

According to legend, the format of the monument to the main biblical villain was approved by Lenin himself. It is believed that initially Trotsky wanted to erect a monument to Lucifer himself. However, Lenin imposed a ban on this project, since the installation of such monuments would indirectly confirm faith in God. The project of a monument to Cain was also rejected by the leader of the world proletariat. Therefore, the revolutionaries agreed on a monument dedicated to Judas.

According to legend, the opening of the monument took place with an orchestra and a parade of two regiments of the Red Army. After the fabric was torn from the monument, the amazed residents of the city saw a stone human figure in full growth. The monument to Judas was a crouching biblical antagonist with his hands up. Rumor has it that Trotsky himself was the prototype of the monument.

Of course, this story is 100% fiction. Such rumors were spread by former White Guards, forced to immigrate from the country after the victory of the Bolsheviks. There are quite a few references to the existence of monuments to Judas in Soviet Russia. In particular, the well-known Danish diplomat Henning Köhler writes about the monument in his memoirs. He claimed to have witnessed its installation in 1918.

Note that many contemporaries fully trusted such rumors, since they were hostile towards the Bolsheviks. In particular, the famous Russian writer Ivan Bunin believed the information about the installation of the monument to Judas. Naturally, nothing like this has ever happened.

There is a perfectly logical explanation for these rumors. The commander of the Red Army, who took Kazan, was the well-known leader of the Latvian riflemen. His name was Yan Yudin. During the fighting, this officer was killed. Moreover, the date of his death approximately coincides with the time of the installation of the "monument to Judas."

In fact, it was about the funeral of Yan Yudin. He actually had a monument erected. It is known that he died from an accidentally hit projectile fired by the artillery of the White Army. The Dane Köhler could well confuse the consonant surname with "Judas".

Location, how to get there, the opening hours of the museum.

You can get to Sviyazhsk from Kazan in the following ways:

1. Personal car. You can get there by car by moving along the M7 highway in the direction of the capital of Russia. You need to get to the village of Isakovo and then follow the sign to the city. The journey by private car will take no more than sixty minutes.
2. Steamboat. Ships to the island depart from the river station of the capital of Tatarstan. The journey takes no more than two hours. You can board the boat from 6.00 to 20.00. Tickets can be purchased up to an hour before the ship's departure. During the summer, boats depart daily. From the first month of autumn to October 16, you can get to the attraction only on weekends.
3. Bus. At the bus station of the capital of Tatarstan there is an opportunity to buy a ticket to the town. The itinerary and number of stops may vary between flights. But most bus routes purposefully take tourists to see the beauty of the city and plunge into the enchanting world of Russian antiquity. Bus tickets are quite affordable.
4. Train. You can also get to your destination from the capital of Tatarstan by rail. At the same time, you should know that the Sviyazhsk station is located a few kilometers from the city itself. The railway junction is located in the neighboring village called Nizhniye Vyazovye. From there, you can quickly get to the village on a ride.

Tours. Museum ticket prices.

Most of the city's museums are open as usual from 10 am to 6 pm. The cost of visiting, as a rule, does not exceed eighty rubles. Tourists also have the opportunity to purchase a single ticket to all museums in Sviyazhsk. Such a purchase is beneficial because it saves up to twenty percent.

A visit to the sights will be interesting for both adults and children. On the territory of the Horse Yard there is an opportunity to ride a horse. Children will also enjoy the Lazy Torzhok cultural center, stylized as medieval city OK. Here you can compete in archery and try on real armor. On weekends, staged knightly fights and spectacular shows are held on the territory of the center.

You can dine in the art cafe "Fisherman's Compound". This place looks like an old fisherman's hut. It offers excellent views of the river. The town also has a cafe "Buyan". The Traktir is located on the territory of the Horse Yard. Each of these establishments has delicious food and affordable prices.

Guests can stay overnight at the Sviyaga Hotel, located in an old 19th-century almshouse building. Price - from 1000 rubles per day.

The best time to visit the town is summer. But the journey to amazing place can be done in winter. At this time, he looks especially beautiful and interesting.

You can also visit the fabulous island by bus.

Any cruise along the majestic Volga or a tour of the treasury cities of Russian culture will be incomplete without a visit to Sviyazhsk - a small village in the Zelenodolsk region of Tatarstan, on an island at the confluence of the Schuka and Sviyaga rivers. By the way, the island was far from always here: it was formed only in 1957 simultaneously with the Kuibyshev reservoir, and today it is connected to the mainland by a dam.

Island-city of Sviyazhsk - a place with ancient history and an impressive concentration of sights. More than 30 objects fit on its territory. cultural heritage, most of which are recognized as monuments of federal significance. The surviving churches and monasteries are witnesses of the events of the past 5 centuries, and the historical and architectural exposition keeps the memory of the lost temples. Popular cruise routes from Kazan pass through the island, and every year more and more discoveries await tourists: Sviyazhsk is actively restored and gradually acquires the features of a full-fledged open-air museum.

A bit of history

Sviyazhsk was founded in 1551 during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. A powerful fortress was assembled in just 4 weeks: the parts were harvested in Uglich and floated down the Volga. This power came in handy a year later: in 1552, during the siege of Kazan, Russian troops were based here.

In the 16th century, the Sviyazhsk fortress was larger than the defensive structures in Pskov, Novgorod and even Moscow.

However, the most dramatic page in the history of Sviyazhsk was the 20th century. In 1918, repressions raged here: Trotsky ordered the execution of every 10th Red Army soldier from local military units who had not driven the White Czechs out of Kazan. In 1928, the Assumption Monastery was transformed into a children's labor commune, then into a colony where prisoners of war were kept during World War II, and later into a psychiatric hospital. For decades, political prisoners who fell into government disgrace were exiled to the island.

In the 21st century, Sviyazhsk is literally reborn from oblivion. To neighboring islands with the poetic name Tatar Griva, a highway was laid, historical monuments taken under state protection, the number of tourist sites is growing, music festivals are held annually - in other words, the village comes to life before our eyes.

How to get to Sviyazhsk

The island-town of Sviyazhsk is located 30 km from Kazan, which can be reached by plane, train, bus or boat. The further way will also have to be done by land or water. Motor ships regularly depart from the Tatar capital, going to the island for about 2-3 hours. Ticket price - 140 RUB one way, if desired, you can order at the river station sightseeing tour(tickets in both directions plus travel information on board, excursions on the island are paid separately) for 450 RUB. Prices on the page are for October 2018.

Between Kazan and Sviyazhsk established and bus service. Flights from the Central Bus Station depart on Saturdays and Sundays, travel time - 1 hour 20 minutes, tickets - 192 RUB. By train, the journey will take a little more than an hour and will cost 84 RUB.

The railway station is not located on the island, but in the nearby village of Nizhniye Vyazovye, from where it is 15 km to the destination by taxi (about 200 RUB) or by bus across the dam.

Another way to get to Sviyazhsk is a trip from Kazan in your own or rented car. The distance between settlements on the highway - about 60 km, you can overcome it in an hour: the roads are good, there are no traffic jams. You have to go along the M7 highway towards Moscow to the village of Isakovo, then follow the signs. Parking is located right at the foot of the hill on which Sviyazhsk stands.

Search for flights to Kazan (nearest airport to Sviyazhsk)

Transport

The island-city of Sviyazhsk occupies a very small area (about 65 hectares), therefore it is not surprising that there is no public transport here: any of the sights is within walking distance. Taxis and buses stop at the foot of the hill where the village rises, and then the tourist has to climb the metal stairs and walk at least all day long between well-groomed houses, temples and monasteries. The only alternative to walking tours is cycling tours: you can rent a two-wheeled horse in Kazan for 500-700 RUB per day.

Sviyazhsk beach

Surrounded by water on all sides, Sviyazhsk lives not only in tourism, but also in river fishing. Almost everyone local resident there is a boat: pike and bream peck excellently near the local shores. Part of the coast is covered with sand and suitable for traditional beach holiday. Of course, about the comfort inherent famous resorts, while there can be no question: there are no amenities here, water activities- too. However, after exciting excursions along the city streets, it is quite possible to sunbathe on a wide sandy strip and even - if you have the courage - to swim in the river.

Hotels in Sviyazhsk

Most tourists visiting Sviyazhsk stay in Kazan, but if necessary, you can spend the night on the island, where several hotels of varying degrees of comfort are open. The most fashionable is located in the 19th century Kamenev estate: in double rooms (standard and deluxe) - clean, spacious and beautiful, the interior is stylized as a Russian merchant's mansion. The cost of living is from 3000 RUB per day.

A more democratic option is the Sviyaga hotel with 7 rooms named after fish found in local waters. Staying in "Bream", "Sudak" or "Pike", you should be prepared for minor domestic inconveniences: showers and toilets are only on the floor. But the prices are lower: from 1000 RUB per day for a single room.

The third (and so far the last) hotel on the island is the Pilgrim's House at the Assumption Monastery. Accommodation here is cheap (from 300 RUB per bed), but the conditions are appropriate.

Weather in Sviyazhsk

What to bring

In Sviyazhsk there are several shops and kiosks with souvenirs, some of them are located on the territory of the Horse Yard. Here are exhibited both characteristic household items of the past centuries, and gizmos familiar to the tourist’s eye: magnets with images of local attractions, handicrafts made of wood and clay, textiles embroidered with patterns.

Excellent honey and sbiten are sold in the yard: you can taste them right at the counter and buy a couple of jars of healthy treats to take home.

Souvenir shops are also open in the Lazy Torzhok historical reconstruction center: they sell all the same handicrafts - clay pots, birch bark figurines, painted plates, and at the same time invite everyone to take pictures in knightly armor and shoot from a crossbow. The best purchases are coins, medallions and horseshoes forged according to the old technology, as well as traditional Tatar treats - smoked horse meat and chak-chak dessert.

Cuisine and restaurants of Sviyazhsk

With cafes and restaurants in Sviyazhsk, it’s still a little tight: until recently, it was only possible to kill a worm in a buffet at the river station, a snack bar on the central square, and souvenir shops, among other things, offering cult products of Tatar cuisine. But the situation is gradually improving: more original establishments with dishes traditional for the region appear on the island.

Due to the constant influx of tourists, service at three Sviyazh catering points is slow.

For fish soup, shish kebab and other delicacies prepared from fish caught here, you should look into the art cafe "Fisherman's Compound", stylized as an old hut. Hot dishes in the range - from 150 RUB, from pleasant bonuses - an excellent view of the Sviyaga. Good complex lunches for 450 RUB - in the Buyan eatery, named after the dog living on the farm and reminiscent of a typical Soviet canteen both in atmosphere and menu. And at the Horse Yard, the guests are waiting for the Traktir with an interesting interior, waiters in folk costumes and primordially Russian treats like saltwort, borscht and baked pike perch. A 3-course lunch will cost from 700 RUB, dinner - from 1000 RUB per person.

Entertainment and attractions

Sviyazhsk is a center of attraction for travelers oriented towards spiritual values, because the main architectural beauties here are temples and monasteries. The island-grad has been claiming to be included in the List for several years. world heritage UNESCO, and it is possible that one day he will be able to win international recognition.

The most famous sight of Sviyazhsk is the active Mother of God-Assumption Monastery, the same age as the Kazan diocese, founded in 1555. Until now, the Assumption Cathedral in the Ukrainian Baroque style and St. Nicholas Church with a bell tower 43 m high, open only to monks, have been preserved.

The Mother of God-Assumption Monastery, once considered the richest in the Middle Volga region, today is famous for a complete cycle of frescoes of the 16th century, covering an area of ​​1080 square meters. m.

The second monastery is John the Baptist, which has now become the courtyard of the Assumption. It began its existence simultaneously with the city, in 1551, and at first served as a convent. The pearl of the architectural ensemble is the wooden Trinity Church: ancient temple Lower and Middle Volga region and the only building that has survived since the founding of Sviyazhsk. A neat log building, erected and consecrated in just one day, resembles a traditional five-wall hut. Nearby are the stone church of St. Sergius of Radonezh and the red-brick Cathedral of Our Lady of All Who Sorrow, built in the Russian-Byzantine style.

There is also a museum in the ancient village - the art and historical-architectural "Island-city of Sviyazhsk". The exposition is located in several historical buildings, the main of which is the Church of St. Constantine and Elena. In the exhibition halls, you can explore objects found in the surrounding area. archaeological artifacts, works of church art and elements of folk life.

The urban development of Sviyazhsk can also be considered an independent attraction. It does not shine with luxury, but it allows you to imagine in detail what the Russian hinterland was like some 100-200 years ago. A vivid example of local architecture is the manor of the merchant Kamenev built in the 19th century and recently restored on the central square.

Sviyazhsk for children

Little guests of Sviyazhsk, tired of long excursions, will surely like visiting the Horse Yard, built in the 17th century and turned into a full-fledged ethnographic complex. Here you can ride a horse (and, if you wish, in a carriage), buy original souvenirs and dine in a tavern.

Even more entertainment for kids and adults - in the cultural center "Lazy Torzhok", stylized as a real medieval city. In the weapons, blacksmith and pottery workshops, you can watch the work of craftsmen and try yourself in a new craft, compete in archery accuracy and try on carefully recreated armor. And on weekends, interactive jousting tournaments are held here - spectacular open-air shows.