How to get to Sviyazhsk from Kazan? Kazan - Sviyazhsk: train.

The island town of Sviyazhsk is an unusual and incredibly picturesque place that attracts tourists with its historical sights and beautiful panoramas. The town stands on a small piece of land in the middle of a green-blue flood formed by the waters of the mighty Volga and the Sviyaga River. Sviyazhsk can be called a large museum, where fascinating pages of history unfold before visitors.

The city has preserved monasteries and churches built 400-500 years ago. They withstood difficult times and all adversities in order to be reborn and once again become the spiritual centers of the Volga region. Many architectural monuments of Sviyazhsk are unique not only for Tatarstan, but also for the whole of Russia. Their cultural value is recognized by world organizations.

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What to see and where to go in Sviyazhsk?

The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.

Since its foundation in the mid-16th century, the monastery has been the main spiritual center of the entire Volga region and one of the richest monasteries in Russia. In the 18th century, after the secularization of the lands, it gradually began to decline, and during the period of Soviet power it was completely plundered and closed. The revival began in 1997. The main architectural monuments of the complex: the Assumption Cathedral and the St. Nicholas Refectory Church with a bell tower, built 400 years ago.

The cathedral is part of the ensemble of the Assumption Monastery. It is a unique example of Russian medieval architecture. The temple was built in the classic Pskov-Novgorod style by craftsmen from Pskov from white hewn stone. The external decorations of the facade are made in the form of patterned kokoshniks, which were completed later - in the 18th century. Inside, fresco painting from the era of Ivan the Terrible has been almost completely preserved.

The temple of the early 18th century, erected on the site of a dilapidated wooden church. The first building was built with elements of the Baroque style. After destruction in the 1930s, only the lower tier with fragments of frescoes remained. The restoration of the temple began after a thorough analysis of historical data, which made it possible to recreate its original appearance. Restoration work was completed in 2015.

A five-tier tower 43 meters high, erected in the 16th-17th centuries. Such structures are very rare in Russia. It is an integral part of the St. Nicholas Refectory Church (the temple seems to have been specially built for it). At the beginning of the 19th century, the total number of bells reached 22, the largest of which weighed 8.5 tons. Only monks are allowed to enter the belfry.

Nowadays the former convent is a courtyard of the Assumption Monastery, but until 1917 it was an independent institution. The first mention of it dates back to the middle of the 16th century. In 1919, the monastery was abolished and a museum-reserve was organized on its territory. The main architectural monuments are the wooden Trinity Church built in 1551, the single-domed Church of Sergius of Radonezh built in 1604 and the Cathedral in the name of the Icon of the Mother of God, built in the neo-Byzantine style at the turn of the 19th-20th centuries.

A small temple from the mid-16th century is the only wooden building in Sviyazhsk that has survived from those times. The church was cut down from larch and erected literally in one day. In subsequent centuries, the appearance of the building changed as a result of alterations and restorations, which led to a significant distortion of the historical appearance. The church resembles a wooden manor, and only the dome with a cross indicates a religious purpose.

The appearance of the cathedral is strikingly different from appearance churches of Sviyazhsk. Unlike the latter, built in the manner of Russian architecture, it was erected in an elegant neo-Byzantine style. The temple has impressive dimensions - the spherical central dome reaches 32 meters in height. The exterior of the building has been completely preserved, but the interior was lost during Soviet times.

The temple was erected in 1604; it was originally built as a courtyard of the Trinity-Sergius Monastery. It is a two-story stone building: previously, utility and residential premises were located on the first level, and the church itself was on the second. Inside, a fragment of a 17th-century fresco depicting the Old Testament Trinity (a copy of the icon of the same name by Andrei Rublev) has been preserved.

The first church was erected under Ivan the Terrible in 1551; a building built in the 18th century in the manner of ancient Russian architecture has survived to this day. Since 1939, a museum was located on its territory, until in 1993 the temple was transferred to the Orthodox community. The church is the only religious building in Sviyazhsk that does not belong to any monastery.

The church was built in the mid-18th century in the Baroque style; the classical bell tower was added later. At the beginning of the 20th century, the building was dismantled and all that a tourist can see today is the preserved brick foundation. Now a wooden cross has been installed on the site of the church. The memorial plaque contains a photograph of the temple and its Short story. IN last years restoration work has begun.

The main city square, built on the site of the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, destroyed in the 1930s (its ruins are located nearby). The main administrative and public buildings are located here: government, post office, school, police, as well as cafes and shops. An observation deck overlooking the picturesque floods of the Volga is equipped for tourists.

The museum collection is housed in a building from the mid-19th century. It consists of several permanent exhibitions: “Pages of the history of Sviyazhsk”, “ Ancient city Sviyazhsk”, “Enchanted by the Island”, “Like Mother Volga...” and other thematic vernissages telling about the history of the city and introducing visitors to its cultural heritage.

The museum opened in 2016 and immediately attracted the attention of visitors. The exhibition is located in a city estate of the 19th century, which previously belonged to a family of wealthy townspeople. It is dedicated to the history of the Red and White armies, their confrontation, as well as the personalities who played a key role in the outcome of the war. A separate exhibition tells about one of the leaders of the Revolution - Leon Trotsky.

In the 1940s, after the end of the Second World War, Sviyazhsk became a unit of the GAUAG and was used to hold prisoners (mainly political ones), as well as disabled people who were injured during the fighting. The monument to the victims of repression was erected in 2011. It consists of a grate in a stone through which a prisoner releases a dove.

The building is located on Rozhdestvenskaya Square and houses the hotel of the same name. The historical building made of stone and wood was built in the 19th century; it belonged to the merchant F. T. Kamenev. But this building has not survived to this day. In 2011, a new house was built in its place. The restorers tried to recreate the original appearance and interior as much as possible.

A red brick building built at the beginning of the 20th century. It still serves its purpose (located here high school). On the central facade of the building you can see Gothic elements - they are indicated by the pointed shape of the windows and the stained-glass rose window located under the roof - an architectural technique characteristic of Catholic churches.

One of the many exhibition halls of the Museum-Reserve "Island-Grad Sviyazhsk", located in a two-story building that was once part of the system of hydraulic structures of Sviyazhsk. The first floor, the base of the tower, is made of stone, the second – of wood. Inside there is a small exhibition of paintings by local artists and an exhibition of handicrafts.

The complex is a historical reconstruction of Sviyazhsk, where you can immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of bygone centuries. There are handicraft shops and shooting ranges, regular impromptu military duels in full historical garb and national dishes are prepared. You can also visit an exhibition of ancient weapons and armor.

The horse yard is located near the Assumption Monastery. The ensemble of buildings is an architectural monument. After restoration, the territory of the yard became operational entertainment center. Here you can ride a horse, visit a blacksmith shop, a bread and honey shop, order a carriage and ride in it throughout Sviyazhsk, dine in a restaurant and buy souvenirs.

Sviyazhsk is located on an island connected to the “mainland” by an isthmus, exactly at the place where Sviyaga and the Volga meet, forming wide spills of incredible beauty. The city looks very picturesque from pleasure boats passing by. In the middle of the mirror-like surface of the water, small islands and areas of land are scattered, giving the surrounding landscape a unique flavor.

The island-city of Sviyazhsk with its ancient architectural structures is a wonderful monument of Russian antiquity in the Republic of Tatarstan. Sviyazhsk is located 3 km away. from the mouth of the Sviyaga River to high hill « High mountain" The distance from Kazan is very short. Up the Volga a little more than 30 km. Sviyazhsk was founded in 1551 as an outpost of the troops of Ivan IV the Terrible.

Most of all, the Sviyazhsky complex amazes with its unique architectural monuments against the backdrop of natural beauty. Pre-revolutionary street names have been preserved on the island: Uspenskaya (the main street) stretches across the island from northeast to southwest, Troitskaya runs parallel to the south, and Nikolskaya runs parallel to the north. In the middle of the island they are crossed by Aleksandrovskaya Street.

In Sviyazhsk, many architectural structures appeared during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. The first monastery founded on the Island-grad - Trinity-Sergievsky consisted of two churches, Trinity and Sergievskaya. This ancient monastery has often experienced difficult times throughout its long history. In the 18th century Currently, in its place is the Uspensko-Bogoroditsky monastery.

The ensemble of the Assumption-Bogoroditsky Monastery is represented by such wonderful architectural monuments as St. Nicholas Church and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin. The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, founded during the reign of Ivan the Terrible, is a wonderful white stone building. Inside the temple there is a unique fresco painting. The following monuments that make up the fund architectural ensemble Sviyazhsk, are the Church of St. Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen and the Cathedral of Our Lady of All Who Sorrow Joy. The Cathedral of Our Lady of All Sorrows Joy was built of red brick on the territory of the St. John the Baptist Monastery in 1898–1906 according to the design of the architect F. N. Malinovsky through the efforts of the abbess of the monastery, Abbess Apphia.

The large five-domed four-pillar cross-domed church is made in the neo-Byzantine (pseudo-Byzantine) style with eclectic elements and is close in its architecture to the Kronstadt Cathedral of St. Petersburg.

Also on the island city of Sviyazhsk there is a museum of the history of Sviyazhsk, a horse yard and the lazy Torzhok complex.

The ethnographic complex "Horse Yard" invites everyone to ride a horse and feed them. There is also the opportunity to ride a carriage around Sviyazhsk. Here, at the Horse Yard of Sviyazhsk, there is a craft settlement where tourists will have the opportunity to participate in the process of making souvenirs themselves, receiving a master class from eminent craftsmen of the Republic of Tatarstan who participated in the significant programs of the republic.

All conditions have been created for tourists for excursion trips to Sviyazhsk. One of the types of visiting the Island-city is a boat tour. The easiest way to get to Sviyazhsk is by water transport, departing daily from river port Kazan. Since 2007, an 8-kilometer dam has been opened, connecting the island with the mainland, which makes it possible to reach it by car (including from the Sviyazhsk railway station).

On a note

• Location: Sviyazhsk, Zelenodolsk district, Tatarstan, Russia.
• How to get there: Motor ships - from river station city ​​of Kazan, travel time is about two hours. Cars - along the M7 highway towards Moscow, go to the village of Isakovo, where there is a direction indicator for Sviyazhsk, travel time - no more than one hour.
• Official website: svpalomnik.ru
• Opening hours: Monday-Friday from 9.00 to 18.00.

If you want to visit an ancient, but at the same time modern city, surrounded by water, wide open spaces and incredible landscapes - head to Sviyazhsk. I truly love this place for the feeling of freedom that reigns here at any time of the year.

Any trip along the Volga is not complete without a stop at this island city. A treasury of Russian and Tatar culture, Sviyazhsk leaves behind some special feeling of experience, beauty, sensuality and deep knowledge.

The city, located in the Zelenodolsk region of Tatarstan, is small. Some people call it a village because of the large and open spaces. But I believe that such an opinion can only be held by those people who have not achieved internal harmony and fill the emptiness inside with things that are completely unnecessary in this world.

The island was connected to the mainland in 1957. The city itself was founded at the same time. Sviyazhsk is located at the confluence of the Shchuka and Sviyaga rivers, which makes the expanses of the island even more picturesque.

Place with interesting history, an impressive concentration of various kinds of attractions and a large number of cultural heritage sites attracts hundreds of tourists. Monuments of federal significance are annually viewed by more than a million guests from all over the country and globe. And the surviving churches and monasteries have been pleasing to the eye for more than five centuries and preserve the memory of lost buildings. This city - open museum.

If your path ever passes through the popular routes of Tatarstan, the island-city of Sviyazhsk should become mandatory place for visiting. I will prove this to you in the next 25 paragraphs.

How to get there

You can visit Sviyazhsk using different types transport. There are no direct flights to the island, but the nearest Kazan airport is only 44 kilometers away. This distance can be covered in just one hour by private car or public transport.

Another way to visit Sviyazhsk is by train. The railway is located in the capital of Tatarstan and does not pass through the island. Therefore, you will have to travel 30 kilometers from Russian Railways to the city on your own.

You can also use taxis, buses, transfers and even take a boat ride. I recommend this method to all tourists, as along the way you will see beautiful views of the Volga.

By plane

The nearest airport from Sviyazhsk is located in Kazan. It is located 44 kilometers away, and you will cover the distance to the island unnoticed. Traveling by plane, in my opinion, is the easiest and most affordable. You won't need to spend more than a day shaking in a stuffy carriage or bus. In addition, if you book a ticket in advance, the price of the flight may turn out to be very modest. You can find tickets for dates that suit you.

From Moscow

Today you can get to Sviyazhsk Island from Moscow using the following airlines:

• company UTair sends its planes every three hours. The price for a two-way trip without transfers will be 5,970 rubles;
• another company that travels from Moscow to Kazan - S7. For one hour and thirty minutes on a round trip flight, the airline asks 6,220 rubles;
• the last company flying from Moscow to the capital of Tatarstan - Aeroflot. The price for a two-way ticket is 6,500 rubles.

All flights are non-stop, and the flight itself usually does not exceed 1.5 hours.

From Saint-Petersburg

From the cultural capital it is easy to get to Kazan, and then to Sviyazhsk. To do this, book your tickets, checking the prices according to your capabilities.

• most often the company flies from St. Petersburg Aeroflot. The price for a two-way ticket will be no less than 13,000 rubles;
• UTair offers its services at more affordable prices. For a two-way ticket you will have to pay 10,200 rubles;
• there is an opportunity to choose a company S7, which offers to visit and get back for 11,000 rubles.

For a budget-conscious tourist, such prices may seem very high. In this case, the traveler will choose a flight with transfers. The same companies with a stop in Moscow from two to six hours reduce prices from 2000 to 4000, respectively. Therefore, when choosing a flight with a transfer, worry about your leisure time in advance.

How to get there from the airport

Upon arrival in the capital of Tatarstan further actions will depend on your landing time. If you arrive in the morning or afternoon, you can immediately head to Sviyazhsk without stopping in other cities along the way.

If you arrive at night, then heading to the island right away will be problematic. In case of vacation without taking into account finances, you can hire a taxi. At the Kazan airport itself there are specialized parking lots where you can arrange to rent a car of any brand.

If you are traveling with a group of people, I recommend booking a minibus. Thus, you can save up to one thousand rubles. If a standard trip from the airport to the island costs about 5 thousand rubles, then a minibus will cost about 3500-4000 rubles.

If you want to save money, but at the same time not lose comfort, I advise you to get to Kazan by taxi, and from there you can transfer to a comfortable bus. In this case, you need to pay 2,500 rubles for the trip.

If you have planned your trip and landed on Tatar soil in the morning or afternoon, then use public transport. Near the airport there is a stop where minibus No. 197 runs. By taking it, you can get to the center of Kazan or stop near the Yuzhny bus station. From this point you can continue your journey to the island without significant expenses. The price for the journey, which will last about 40 minutes, will be 120 rubles.

Minibuses run from six in the morning and end at ten in the evening. Keep in mind that on weekends they may travel much less often or not at all. Therefore, check the information on the airport website in advance.

By train

Another possible variant travel - train. Having chosen Russian as a route railways, be prepared for a long journey. Distance 781.5 kilometers from Moscow and 1524 kilometers from St. Petersburg regular train travels in 13 and 23 hours respectively. In my opinion, it is not prudent to spend so much time, but everyone has their own opinion.

From Moscow

If you choose a mode of transport such as a train, reserve plenty of time. I don't recommend going on such a long trip alone, so gather a large group. This will definitely be more comfortable and more fun.

To get to Sviyazhsk from Moscow by train you will need 13 hours and approximately three thousand rubles for a one-way ticket.

Today, the cost of a ticket varies from two thousand to four, depending on the chosen seat and class of carriage.

• if you take a chance and buy a ticket for a seat, the trip will cost you only 1000 rubles;
• when choosing a reserved seat for one person, travel will cost 2,800 rubles;
• travel in a compartment will cost much more - 5,700 rubles one way;
• a seat in a luxury carriage exceeds the cost of plane tickets and amounts to almost 8,000 rubles.

I recommend purchasing tickets for night time. In this case, you will spend most of the trip asleep and will not notice all the delights reserved seat carriage.

From Saint-Petersburg

Only an experienced tourist or a person eager to meet new people would risk getting to Sviyazhsk Island from St. Petersburg by train. Personally, I have only traveled this way twice. For the first time at the age of 17, when the train seemed to me a place of romance and the most vital space before meeting St. Petersburg. The second time I was 23, and I simply didn’t have time to buy plane tickets. I have no desire to repeat such heroic events. But if the distance of 1524 kilometers, which the train covers in almost 24 hours, seems like an opportunity to have a great time, as they say in Tatarstan - “Rehim Itegez”, which means “Welcome”.

Direct flights from St. Petersburg depart from Moskovsky Station once a day at 15:30. Ticket prices are as follows:

• a seat in a reserved seat costs from 3,000 to 4,300 rubles;
• travel in a compartment will cost 5,600 rubles.

Keep in mind that by purchasing tickets in advance, you can save up to 2,000 rubles.

How to get there from the station

Having arrived at the Kazan 1 station, first get out and warm up thoroughly. But don’t go far, since we will get to Sviyazhsk from the same point. If this is your first time in Kazan, then walk through the city’s memorable places and get acquainted with its culture.

I recommend staying here for a few days, walking around Bauman, visiting the Kamala Theater, trying the local chak-chak, heading to the Kazan Kremlin and spending time in Gorky Park. All these places are truly dear to me. You will not lose time or waste it in vain if you stop in the capital of Tatarstan for at least a couple of hours.

After exploring Kazan, you need to take the train. Keep in mind that she only walks eight times a day. Therefore, check the departure time in advance. The train on the Kazan-Sviyazhsk route starts running at six in the morning, and the travel time depends on the train itself, but you will get there in an hour and a half.

The cost of traveling by train will seem ridiculous for a tourist from Moscow or St. Petersburg - only 74 rubles one way. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office, which are located inside the station. If you do not want to communicate with the seller, buy a pass at the terminal, which is located next to the station.

I want to warn you that the train does not reach the island itself. He will leave you in the village of Nizhnie Vyazovye, from where there is another ten kilometers. Such a surprise can unsettle you and greatly spoil your mood, but do not rush to get upset. It’s not difficult to walk this distance in the summer, but if you’re traveling with small children, then walk through railways. From there you will come out to a large area where local taxis are already waiting for you. Usually they ask for about 250 rubles, which will have to be paid for ten minutes on the road.

By bus

Another possible way to travel to Sviyazhsk from St. Petersburg or Moscow is by bus. There are special tourist flights. By using their services, you don’t have to worry about where to stay overnight or the need to book plane or train tickets. This method is becoming increasingly popular among older travelers, as it significantly simplifies the journey and gives its clients a hassle-free vacation for an affordable amount. You can find such a tour in any specialized department, but I will consider the standard route.

From Moscow

Getting from the Russian capital to Sviyazhsk by bus is quite easy. Every day, entire flights leave from the Krasnogvardeyskaya bus station, and you can choose your destination among them on the spot.

The journey is not difficult, as all buses are equipped with all means of communication. The seat of each tourist reclines to a comfortable position. In addition, all vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, personal TVs and Wi-Fi. Such conditions allow you to easily reach Sviyazhsk in about ten hours and cover 815 kilometers. Despite all the benefits, it is quite cool on the bus, so do not forget to take a warm jacket with you, even if traveling in summer.

Buses leave in the first half of the day, namely at 11 am. Therefore, Muscovites have the opportunity to get some sleep and not rush to pack their things. For such a trip you will be asked for about 1,500 rubles, but the price may change depending on the newness of the fleet.

From Saint-Petersburg

When traveling from St. Petersburg, you need to save up a considerable amount. Unfortunately, direct flights from the cultural capital are very rare and are usually operated only by private companies. Traveling with their help, the trip will cost you from five to seven thousand rubles.

For local tourists this is a pretty decent amount, so I suggest you the following route. You can cover a distance of 1,524 kilometers with a transfer in Moscow. To do this, use the services of Sapsan. If you worry about traveling in advance, you can buy a ticket for only 1,200 rubles. But the longer you delay the purchase, the higher its cost.

Having arrived in Moscow, head to the Krasnogvardeyskaya metro station, from where you should repeat the path already described above.

If such a road seems difficult to you, and you have some money that you can afford to spend on a more comfortable journey, head to the Moskovsky railway station. From there, every three days at 15:10 a large bus leaves, equipped with all the necessary amenities. The price for the road in this case will be 4,500 rubles.

How to get there from the bus station

If you were able to take the bus directly to Sviyazhsk, you were lucky. But more often tourists are offered to get to Kazan, from where you will have to travel 30 kilometers on your own. Usually, all drivers leave their clients near the bus station, from where you can transfer to local transport.

By the way, since 2016 it has been running in Kazan sightseeing bus, which moves in the direction of Kazan-Sviyazhsk once a day. It leaves from the Yuzhny bus station in the morning, and you can find it with the help of local volunteers. The bus fare is 500 rubles.

If you missed the excursion transport, take a regular bus, which leaves every thirty minutes. True, this type of transportation has one significant minute - the travel time takes almost two hours, for which you have to pay 165 rubles.

By car

If you have a large and comfortable car, then the need for flights or travel on trains disappears by itself. Personally, I have traveled this way more than once and really love long trips in very solitary company. During these hours spent with your loved one, you can look at your other half with a different look and see what previously went unnoticed.

Therefore, if you want to refresh your relationship, head to Sviyazhsk. It is the island that will help you fall in love with your partner again and see something completely new.

Traveling by private transport is very economical. And if your partner knows how to drive a car no worse than you, then the journey will not be noticeable at all.

This method of travel can also be beneficial for tourists without personal transport. By booking a car on any travel companion search site, you can find great options. Typically, such services offer cars at affordable prices. They will allow the driver to save on gasoline, and the fellow traveler will not hit the budget.

From Moscow

You can get from the capital of Russia to Sviyazhsk in 14 hours. Travel time will depend on the road the car owner chooses and driving experience. I recommend not to experiment and drive along the M7 highway. There are no toll roads on this route, and the surface itself undergoes annual repairs, so the driver can expect smooth and good surface.

Keep in mind that travel time depends largely on weather conditions. When traveling in winter, it is recommended not to exceed the speed limit. It's better to spend a few hours more, but get to your final destination in the best possible way.

If, of all the options, you chose to travel by car, then set aside 6,000 rubles for gasoline in both directions. Fellow travelers usually ask for about 1,500 rubles one way.

From Saint-Petersburg

The distance from the cultural capital to the island is 1690 kilometers. Quite a long journey for a beginner, but an experienced driver will spend no more than 22 hours on the entire journey. I recommend not taking risks and keeping an eye on your neighbor. Often, in the excitement, car owners forget about the need for rest and do not take breaks.

Remember that even a short stop is extremely beneficial for the body. Therefore, do not take snacks, chips and other products of this type with you. By stopping at roadside cafes or hotels, you can eat better food and do some exercise.

By the way, if you don’t know where it’s best to stop, trust the experience of van and truck drivers. Stop only in places where the parking lot is predominantly occupied by such heavy trucks. If you believe many years of practice, it is in such restaurants and cafes that they sell food of appropriate quality.

For such a trip, a fellow traveler is asked to pay about 2,500 rubles one way. Keep in mind that the driver himself will have to set aside about 4,500 rubles for gasoline, calculating seven liters per hundred kilometers.

By ferry

It is impossible to get to Sviyazhsk from Moscow or St. Petersburg by water, but this method is used already when in Tatarstan. Therefore, first come to any of the described methods, and after getting acquainted with the capital, head to the river station.

Buses number 1 run to it from almost anywhere in the city. Most often, the river station is the last stop, so be prepared for a long trip. When you arrive at the departure point of the ships, purchase a ticket at the ticket office. The cost of crossing by boat to the island will cost 135 rubles.

By the way, you can get to Sviyazhsk by water transport only in the warm season. In winter or late autumn, this method will not work for you.

Keep in mind that the travel time will take almost three hours, but it is worth it. It’s rare to see all the beauty of nature from the water. Therefore, arrive at the ship station at eight in the morning, and at 8:20 you will find yourself on a departing ship. Upon arrival, you will be left at the river station, from where you can immediately go on excursions. The boat leaves back at 16:30, so you will have plenty of time to see all the beauties of the island.

Clue:

Sviyazhsk - the time is now

Hour difference:

Moscow 0

Kazan 0

Samara 1

Ekaterinburg 2

Novosibirsk 4

Vladivostok 7

When is the season? When is the best time to go

Best time to visit the island of Sviyazhsk - late spring, summer and early autumn. During this period, wonderful metamorphoses occur in the city. Despite the fact that the island city is located just an hour’s drive from Kazan, it is significantly different from the capital of Tatarstan and the entire region. There is a special atmosphere here that I couldn’t describe briefly.

In summer it is wonderful to take a walk here at any time of the day, and the air temperature is a blessing for this in every possible way. In the summer season the thermometer is stable at +25°C.

The island, where craftsmen created a fortress over several centuries, can also be visited in winter. But at this time it is quite deserted and very cold. Due to the fact that the city is blown from all sides and is practically not protected from the vagaries of nature, the air temperature is perceived as much colder than it actually is. Therefore, even at -10°C, it is dank and uncomfortable here.

Regardless of changes in weather conditions, prices remain the same.

Sviyazhsk in summer

Summer in Sviyazhsk is warm and comfortable, and the proximity to the water creates all the conditions for an ideal pastime. In many cities of central Russia, summer begins in July. The appropriate atmosphere has reigned here since mid-June.

I often note the childlike, kind and clean atmosphere here. Children run around the island without thinking about school matters, adults clean old houses and paint fences, teenagers gather in small groups and slowly wander along the shore, heatedly discussing something.

This atmosphere of lightness envelops everything around and turns Sviyazhsk into a special place that not everyone can understand and feel. But when packing your bags, in search of new emotions, do not rush to immediately put on shorts or light dresses. On the island, in the first month of summer the temperature rarely reaches +15°C. Moderately warm temperatures appear here only in July, when the thermometer is stable at +25°C or +27°C. In August the heat peaks, and the air warms up to +30°C. However, due to the localization of the island, people here do not feel the sweltering heat, and if necessary, they can always cool off on the river bank.

Sviyazhsk in autumn

As cool weather approaches, the long-awaited golden autumn arrives. At this time, the atmosphere of summer ease is replaced by the need to continue agricultural work, getting children ready for school and other important matters.

If you did not have time to visit Sviyazhsk in the summer, I recommend heading here in September. The air temperature in the first month of autumn is favorable for the continuation of the tourist season. Usually at this time it is around +15°C, but already in October it drops to +7°C and is accompanied by rain. And with the first days of November, truly cold days begin, when the mark on the thermometer stops at 0°C and below.

Sviyazhsk in spring

After a long winter, which begins around November and ends in April, tired White color slowly changing to the warm shades of spring.

The air temperature at the beginning of March stays below zero, but in April it reaches the first warm degrees. Therefore, you can safely expect +15 °C in the spring.

From the end of spring, nature gets to work and in a matter of days Sviyazhsk turns into real tropics. Everything, as if from the artist’s hand, is painted in rich tones and acquires a regal shade of rich green.

Sviyazhsk in winter

I don’t like winter and dream of living on Russian, but warm soil. But I can’t imagine how they cope with winter on the island. In Sviyazhsk in December, January and February everything turns into a real Ice Age.

If in Tatarstan the standard -18°C in winter does not feel so tragic, then on the island the same degrees are felt at -35. This is due to the constant winds and cyclones that have chosen this place. Therefore, when going on any business to the island city in winter period, I advise you to stock up on several pairs of mittens and wrap yourself in three scarves. And take grandma’s shawl!

Sviyazhsk - weather by month

Clue:

Sviyazhsk - weather by month

Districts. Where is the best place to live?

Usually tourists come to Sviyazhsk only for one day and rarely stay here overnight. Most travelers stay in Kazan or in hotels near the island.

If you want to stay off the island, check out the following areas:

1. Krasny Yar. This area is considered the closest to the island and from it it is quite easy to get to both Sviyazhsk and the capital of Tatarstan. However, a day in any hotel in this area will cost you 9,000 rubles.
2. Vasilyevo. This area differs from others in its pricing and accessibility, as well as the quality of services offered. A night in a hotel here will cost about 4,000 rubles, regardless of the time of year and the influx of tourists.
3. Zaimishche. In this area, a night in a hotel costs the cheapest – 1,200 rubles. This price does not include anything except a bed.

As you can see, there is not a wide choice of places to stay, so I recommend booking a cozy hotel in Kazan in advance and not worrying about accommodation. But if you need to spend the night on the island itself, it is important to book the few available apartments on time. But, unfortunately, you can check the cost of private hostel services upon arrival in the city.

Typically the price for a clean and spacious room is about 3,000 rubles. Finding more affordable prices is very problematic, as is the hotel itself.

If you do find a free hostel, then its address does not matter. The entire island is small and stretches only 1.5 kilometers in length. Therefore, in any case, you will be in his cultural center.

What are the prices for holidays?

Sviyazhsk is not a rich city, so prices for services here are very affordable.

Movement

The island town of Sviyazhsk can be walked around in one hour, so there is simply no need for public transport here. But if you prefer to travel in comfort, use the services of local taxi drivers, checking the carriers’ numbers with local residents. If you don't like personal communication, a taxi can be ordered by mobile application.

Keep in mind that the island is a pedestrian zone and you can only use taxis outside the city.

Attractions

Sviyazhsk is called a museum under open air. Therefore, upon arrival here, it is important to visit all the memorable places. To save money you can purchase single ticket to visit the permanent exhibitions and temporary exhibitions of the Museum of the History of Sviyazhsk, the exhibition hall “Old Water Tower” and the “Museum of the Civil War”. The price for it will be 300 rubles, and if you are a student or a pensioner, then only 180.

In addition, there are various sightseeing walking tours around Sviyazhsk, the cost of which will be 1,500 rubles for a group of 10 people. You can receive a small discount upon presentation of your pension or student ID.

Restaurants and cafes

If you are passing through Sviyazhsk, you should not waste time preparing food. And if you, like me, don’t like to cook at all, then this is a great reason to try local cuisine. The price for lunch in a small restaurant will be about 700 rubles per person. In this case, you will try three local dishes and dessert.

If you are staying in an apartment for a few days, I recommend checking out the local shopping markets. You will be amazed at the large number of spices offered and products that are unusual for a tourist from Moscow or St. Petersburg. Be sure to try horse meat and lamb, and also purchase ready-made Tatar desserts.

The price of horse meat varies everywhere, so be prepared to spend from 450 to 700 rubles per kilogram.

Entertainment

The entertainment part in Sviyazhsk is not fully represented, so it is better to look for nightclubs or any places for parties in Kazan or other cities of Tatarstan. Only kids can have fun here in the historical reconstruction “Lazy Torzhok”. Interactive evenings called “Streltsy fun” will appeal to your children, and real battles in armor and parables about war can be seen by paying 120 rubles per person.

But there are several sites here that work for free. Their work schedule and performances are irregular, so you can only see a theatrical performance by chance. Usually, in this way, young actors, musicians and dancers rehearse their performances right in the open air. Don't be stingy and give them a small amount of money.

Main attractions. What to see

Sviyazhsk is home to almost 300 people. Can you imagine how small a number of people live here? Most of the residents are middle-aged people who sincerely love their native land and carefully monitor its cleanliness and safety.

Despite such a small number of people, Sviyazhsk is one huge attraction. The island, like a magnet, attracts tourists from all over Russia. There are no random people here, since all travelers are focused on spiritual values ​​and enlightenment. And the main cultural monuments are hidden in temples and monasteries.

The island town has been applying for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List for several years now, but a positive answer has not yet been given. Therefore, I really look forward to this day when international recognition will be won.

Top 5

Mother of God Assumption Monastery

The most famous attraction on the island is the Sviyazhsk Mother of God Assumption Monastery. As far as I know, it is the same age as the Kazan diocese and over the years of its existence has gained great popularity among the religious population.

Once upon a time, the still functioning monastery, decorated in the Ukrainian Baroque style, was considered the richest in the entire Volga region. But today the men's church is famous for its cycle of frescoes.

The history of this place surprised me. There was a concentration camp, a colony for juvenile delinquents and a psychoneurological hospital here. This cocktail of different directions is intriguing and frightening at the same time. Believers say that there is a special energy here that permeates a person through and through.

Civil War Museum

The Civil War Museum was opened in a historic house founded in the 19th century. There are no documented documents about the history of this house, but it is known that the headquarters of the Red Army army was once located here, and the famous chairman of the Revolutionary Military Council of the Soviet Republic, Leon Trotsky, also stayed here.

The main purpose of the creation was not to perpetuate the memory of war heroes, as the director of the museum-reserve stated, but to encourage people to remember the events that took place a hundred years ago.

The museum displays stands dedicated to the life of Leon Trotsky, as well as various newsreels and stories on the history of the war. I was particularly impressed by the interactive layout railway station, as well as a reconstruction of the map of the Eastern Front.

John the Baptist Monastery

The St. John the Baptist Monastery today is the courtyard of the Sviyazhsk Dormition Monastery, but I consider this place to be special. It opened its doors along with the creation of the city - in 1551. In the first days it existed as a women's monastery, but after a while it began its operation as the Church of the Nativity.

I don't always like to listen to monotonous stories about historical monuments or architectural landmarks. But the chronicle of the St. John the Baptist Monastery surprises with its non-standard nature.

Once a convent for women, today it is the second largest monastery in the Kazan diocese. Built in the Russian-Byzantine style, the monastery once united more than 350 nuns and became the most refreshing place on the island.

When visiting the St. John the Baptist Monastery, you will notice several architectural structures. On its territory there is one of the oldest churches in the Volga region - the wooden Trinity Church. This place is one of the few surviving buildings from the founding of the island.

I especially like that the St. John the Baptist Monastery is the only one of its kind, and its appearance was preserved in the 16th century. It makes me happy to think that your children will be able to see such ancient buildings with their own eyes.

It is forbidden to go inside the wooden church today, but you will mark it amazing story. I was very surprised by the fact that it was built and founded in just one day. Can you imagine? In addition to the church, pay attention to the stone buildings dedicated to St. Sergius of Radonezh, and also visit the red brick Cathedral of Our Lady of Joy of All Who Sorrow.

Historical and Architectural Museum "Island-city of Sviyazhsk"

The museum, based on the territory of the Church of Saints Constantine and Helena, attracts tourists from all over Tatarstan. It is here that you can study the main components of the fund and pay attention to the history of the city, pay attention to the facts of the Civil War, pay attention to the museums of the river and archeology, and also stroll along exhibition hall, where modern and historical exhibitions are often held.

Created in 2009, the art and historical-architectural museum “Island-city of Sviyazhsk” has become a truly great attraction in the city. It is located in several cultural heritage buildings at once, so even walking inside the building you are already studying history.

It is attractive that there are a large number of collections of ceramics, ancient coins, handmade items made of leather and wood. I once wanted to buy them for my personal collection, but they didn’t sell them. They say they can be stored here because of some required humidity. Therefore, please note that the archaeological collection was preserved only due to their localization.

I especially like the decorative and applied arts items in the museum. Art education makes itself felt, and I look with particular passion at paintings by contemporary authors and objects of art that have survived time.

If you're not interested in the history of coins or other archaeological discoveries, head to the art gallery next door. Here you can find works by many artists who have lived in Sviyazhsk all their lives.

For a tourist who loves archaeological artifacts, works of church art and elements of folk life, there will be plenty to stroll around here. By the way, the attractions found in the vicinity can be explored slowly and with special attention, since the fund contains only 129 units.

The museum is located at st. Moskovskaya, 6. In the summer, it is open seven days a week from ten in the morning to six in the evening.

Chapel of Panteleimon the Healer

Usually tourists heading to Sviyazhsk already have a plan for their visits. I recommend including a visit to the chapel of Panteleimon the Healer. This place was consecrated not only for the sake of the formation of the church, but also to forever perpetuate the fact that the chapel, which is part of the Church of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow,” was erected in honor of the 300th anniversary of the Romanov dynasty.

What especially surprised me was that at one time this place was used as the last place for prayer before saying goodbye to the dead. During Soviet times, a kitchen and smokehouse were created in the same place.

After a long time, a thick layer of soot covered the chapel. But even before its consecration, the Old Believers did not know about the image under the dome. Imagine the surprise of the believers when the face of Seraphim of Sarov appeared at this place. Because of such a miraculous event, the chapel and temple were consecrated in honor of the saint. You can see his portrait when you go up to the chapel.

Beaches. Which ones are better

Since Sviyazhsk is located on an island, which, in turn, is located at the confluence of two rivers, you can see incredible views from any point.

The close proximity to water ensures not only the tourism business, but also river fishing. Almost every person who lives here year-round or only in the summer season has a personal boat. And avid fishermen note that not far from the shore you can catch a large pike or bream.

Keep in mind that not the entire coast of Sviyazhsk is covered with sand and is suitable for beach holiday. If you want to enjoy the sun and swim in the Volga, head to the right side of the island. This is where there is a sandy shore, a smooth entry into the water and some conditions for relaxation. But expect tourist comfort, sun loungers, water activities not worth it. There are virtually no amenities available here, so you should bring your own towels and other necessary items. But after a whole day of excursions, a wide strip of sand and a clear river in places will not seem such a bad way to relax.

Churches and temples. Which ones are worth visiting?

Sviyazhsky Assumption Monastery

The Sviyazhsk Assumption Monastery was once considered one of the richest monasteries among the entire Kazan diocese. Since the middle of the 18th century, this place belonged to more than fifty villages, in which tens of thousands of people lived.

The Assumption Monastery was founded in 1555, and during all this time it has never been closed. Imagine, this holy place has been open for prayers and conversations about God since the 16th century!

Its history is rich in significant names who became not only the first abbots of the monastery, but also spiritual mentors for many years. One of these people was Archimandrite German, who was considered a descendant of the Smolensk princes and a monk of the Joseph-Volokolamsk monastery. His name is especially respected in Christian history and many religious people come here to honor his memory.

Cathedral of Our Lady of All Sorrows Joy

One of the largest Orthodox churches in Sviyazhsk is the Church of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow.” It was erected from 1896 to 1906, and was consecrated in honor of the miraculous icon of the Mother of God “Joy of All Who Sorrow.”

The largest of the Orthodox churches, the temple was built according to the design of Philip Malinovsky. It is significantly different from other churches in Sviyazhsk, but, in my opinion, this is not its value. Its size is impressive in its imposingness, and the main dome of the building is unlike any other. The hemispherical table of contents, made in the neo-Byzantine style, remains in the memory of thousands of photographs of tourists.

I want to note that, despite frequent changes in the city itself, the appearance of the temple did not change. Therefore, hurry up to touch history today.

Church of the Life-Giving Trinity

Trinity Church, like many other monasteries and churches, was built in the middle of the 16th century. It is surrounded by deciduous trees, and inside the holy place you can still find decorations made from this tree. I would love to take a larch table for myself, but products dating back to the 17th century serve as historical memory.

Trinity Church and its interior are similar to a house in a village. It is simply cozy and calm here, and wooden benches have become an integral part of this place. But, besides this, in the ancient Russian church an attentive traveler will notice a lot of handicrafts, darkened by age.

However, the main decoration of the temple is the iconostasis. Its patterns have not survived, but the remains of carvings are reminiscent of the Baroque style that was so popular at that time. Today the temple can be seen in a rather shabby state and without many details. But they come here not for external beauty, but to worship the icons of the festive rite.

Museums. Which ones are worth visiting?

Civil War History Museum

The Civil War History Museum was opened in 2016 and devoted to the analysis of the events of a hundred years ago. Here, for history buffs, there is a wide range of artifacts that were brought not only from Russia, but also from abroad.

The museum's exposition seems to accurately recreate the events of those days that have sunk into oblivion. There are not only informative stands about the lives of many famous people, money of those years, cartridges, shells, stamps, weapons, but also unique publications of the 1920s.

In addition, the museum presents topographic map military events, where workaround maneuvers are outlined in case of unexpected attacks.

The museum, by the way, is constantly updated, so a particularly inquisitive historian will find it interesting. Therefore, head to the same address as the “Island-city of Sviyazhsk”.

Excursion services will cost 300 rubles, and a ticket to visit the museum costs 50 rubles.

Museum of the History of Sviyazhsk

The Sviyazhsk History Museum opened seven years ago and during this time has gained wide popularity. Surprises await tourists from the first minutes of their acquaintance with this museum. The building itself is located in a former prison complex, built in 1840. In 2010, the authorities of Sviyazhsk breathed new life into these walls and the building was restored.

The information about the lives of former prisoners does not surprise me at this point. Today it is much more interesting to see with your own eyes the exhibitions “The Ancient City of Sviyazhsk” and “Pages of the History of Sviyazhsk”. Once you get acquainted with them, you can see a unique layout of the city's layout dating back to the mid-16th century.

For tourists interested in history, it will be interesting to see archaeological finds, copies of archival documents, as well as photographs from various times in the development of the island.

Children, and especially future ship captains, will be curious to see the exhibition “Like Mother Volga...”. It tells about the history of the river passenger fleet, and also introduces unique models of ships, anchors and guides.

If, like me, you prefer the works of artists to shipbuilding and its history, the history museum houses the private collection “Enchanted by the Island.” I recommend seeing the works with your own eyes and noting the multifaceted interpretation of Sviyazhsk using various methods.

Parks

Rozhdestvenskaya Square

The main vacation spot in Sviyazhsk is Rozhdestvenskaya Square. If you want to take a break from the excursions, be alone, or just have a good time within the city, head here.

You can walk, jog, or watch community events. This is where New Year and other major holidays are celebrated.

The main Christmas Square in Sviyazhsk has acquired this interesting name in honor of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. By the way, you can see the ruins of the monastery with your own eyes. To do this, turn left from the park and walk ten meters.

Despite the seclusion of this place, Rozhdestvenskaya Square is considered historical center islands. Here is the building of the head of the island, post office, main library, hospital, school, kindergarten. By the way, the island’s main store and cafe are also located nearby.

I advise you not to pay attention to all the complex and buildings, but head to the edge of Rozhdestvenskaya Square and take a few pictures against the background observation deck overlooking the entire city.

Getting to this place is not difficult. Rozhdestvenskaya Square is located almost next to the island's pier, where you will stop when traveling by boat. If you come by bus or car, you should leave your car in the parking lot. From there you should walk along the central part of the island and move up Uspenskaya Street. If you don’t see the necessary landmarks, then at almost every step you will find stands with a map of the island.

Tourist streets

The island town of Sviyazhsk itself can be considered a big attraction, so it’s difficult for me to single out the main tourist street here. From start to finish, the city is home to interesting buildings, architectural monuments, majestic temples and monasteries.

This place is not luxurious or very rich, but that is not its beauty. Walking along any street on the island, you can notice interesting details of Russian history and paint a picture of life in the 19th century.

However, I recommend walking along the two central streets of the city, where the main historical sites are located. Upon arrival in the city, head to the central Rozhdestvenskaya Street. It is here that the historical details and architecture of the 19th century have been preserved.

After walking along the entire street, you will exit to Rozhdestvenskaya Square, where you will be greeted by the restored estate of the merchant Kamenev. This house seems to exactly recreate the atmosphere of merchant life.

After exploring the square, head to the street that has retained its pre-revolutionary name: Uspenskaya. On main street cities you will notice unique monuments history and culture. Against the background of the beauty of nature, the surface of the water and the general atmosphere of the island, they look even more majestic and at the same time mysterious.

What to see in 1 day

You can get to know Sviyazhsk in one day. Moreover, this time will be enough for you not for a superficial walk, but for a thorough study of the entire island.

• 8:00. Arriving in Sviyazhsk by boat, you will arrive at Rozhdestvenskaya Square, where your story will begin. If you choose a car as a means of transport, then the first thing you will see is a panorama of the city and the endless expanse of water. I advise you to spend your first minutes in the city in silence and look around. You will have time to plunge into history, study monuments and photograph the overall landscape.

• 8:30 . Start your morning with breakfast. I recommend thinking about this in advance and preparing it at home. Sandwiches eaten outdoors will give you strength. You can choose the place yourself, but I like the slope near free parking. Moving a few meters away from the car stop, you will see a large and clean clearing.
• 9:00. I don’t know about you, but I’m always in a great mood after breakfast. With such a positive charge, I advise you to head to the main historical museum of the city. It is located on the main street of the island - Uspenskaya, which runs through almost the entire city from northeast to southwest. And the museum itself is located at Uspenskaya street, 22.

• 10:30. The history museum is very large, but an hour and a half, which is how long the sightseeing tour lasts, should be enough for a first impression of the island. Next, head to the Civil War History Museum. It's easy to get to. Just walk up the main street for a few minutes and you will come out on Moskovskaya Street, 6. Here you will see various exhibitions that create the atmosphere of the 1920s.
• 11:30 . On the same street as the war museum is located one of the main attractions - the Sviyazhsk Island-City Museum. It is located in several buildings at the same time, and you can spend quite a lot of time here. I advise you to take your time and walk here as much as you want. Well, until you get hungry.
• 13:00. At one o'clock in the afternoon you should eat. You can try local cuisine in a cafe near Rozhdestvenskaya Square or in a tavern on the Horse Yard. Having chosen the second option, I advise you to try the local dessert – chak-chak and national dishes.

• 14:30. After lunch, stay at the Horse Yard and explore the ethnographic complex. Various entertainment events are often held here, especially interesting for children. You can ride on horseback or inside a carriage not only around the island, but throughout the island. Great, right? If you are afraid, but want to try yourself as a rider, you can take lessons from real professionals. In addition, there are workshops of artisans and leather workers, a forge, a guest house, and a souvenir shop. In general, time here can pass unnoticed.
• 16:10. If you are planning a return trip by boat, I advise you to hurry up. He leaves in twenty minutes from the same square where you are staying. If you are leaving by car, enjoy your holiday at the Equestrian Complex.

• 17:00. When traveling with children, the historical part can quickly get boring. For fickle kids in Sviyazhsk there is a large historical playground “Lazy Torzhok”. The various interactive celebrations will absolutely delight your children, while you can enjoy the tranquility and stylized performance in the open air.
• 19:00. In the evening you can walk around the entire island again. Take memorable photos, watch the sunset on the banks of the Volga and feel the atmosphere of the island.
• 20:00 . Before heading back, don't forget to have dinner at local cafe at Troitskaya Street, 1. After this, return to the parking lot and look back at the island again.

What to see in the area

Kazan (58 km)

Near the island of Sviyazhsk there is amazing city – .

If you have never been to these parts, I urge you to visit the capital of Tatarstan and its attractions: pedestrian street Bauman, Peter and Paul Cathedral and the Kazan Kremlin. Having been there, you can safely say that you have seen the main thing in the city.

Raifa Mother of God Monastery (57 km)

The main attraction, which is located 58 kilometers from the island, is the Raifa Mother of God Monastery. This is the largest monastery in the Kazan diocese.

A person leading a spiritual life will be interested in communicating with clergymen here, and non-religious people can admire the most beautiful views on the territory of Tatarstan.

Pilgrims from all over Russia come here to venerate the miraculous icon of the Georgian Mother of God and drink holy water illuminated by Patriarch of All Rus' Alexei II. By the way, take canisters with you, as healing water you can take it with you.

Food. What to try

It’s not difficult to find a restaurant or cafe in Sviyazhsk - there are only two of them. Therefore, if you prefer exclusive cuisine, it is best to head to the capital of Tatarstan. But these places are quite suitable for a snack.

When in Sviyazhsk, don’t expect special dishes that will surprise you with their unusualness or taste. But if the island is the only place in Tatarstan, which you can visit, be sure to try the following dishes:

1. Gubadia.
2. Ochpochmak.
3. Zur belesh.
4. Bish barmak.
5. Chuck-chuck.

For a tourist from European cities, such dishes will seem strange. Living in St. Petersburg, I miss them very much.

Each dish will cost you 150 rubles, but the amount may vary depending on the portion. And the average bill in Sviyazhsk will be no more than 750 rubles per person.

If you have a talent for cooking and love spending time in the kitchen, then visit your local store. Products in the hypermarket will cost 450 rubles.

The choice of cafes or restaurants on the island is small. You can try national dishes only in a few places: a buffet at the river station, in a small cafe on Rozhdestvenskaya Square and in a tavern on the Horse Yard. But recently several more places have opened.

Budget

• Cafe near the pier. You can try iconic products of Tatarstan at the snack bar near the pier. Lunch here will consist of several products: triangle or gubadia, and you can buy them for 70 rubles.

• "Christmas trees". Another place for a light snack is the Elki cafe. In fact this place is far from official name and more like a school cafeteria. The dishes here are not for everyone, but you can try the local dessert and drink tea. The average bill of this establishment rarely exceeds 150 rubles.

Mid-level

• "Fisherman's farmstead" The original establishment in Sviyazhsk is the art cafe “Fisherman’s Compound”. I remember the place because the entire interior is made in an old style. Here you can try barbecue, traditional fish soup or national dishes for a very affordable price. A hot dish costs about 200 rubles, and strong drinks cost about 150 rubles. Here you can enjoy one of the best views to the city.

• "Brawler". You can have a quick but tasty lunch at the Buyan cafe. For my taste, the best dishes here are fish soup, homemade noodle soup and triangles. All listed dishes will cost you 500 rubles. By the way, the name of this place is dedicated to the dog that lives next to the cafe. And the whole place will remind you of the times of the USSR. Overall, it's worth a visit!

Expensive

One of the best places in Sviyazhsk is the “Tavern” on the Horse Yard. Guests of this restaurant can expect a rather unusual interior and presentation of dishes, and the waitresses serve in classic folk costumes, which looks very nice.

A standard lunch or dinner at this place will cost approximately 700 rubles, but if you are hungrier than usual, the check will be 1000 rubles.

Holidays

Sviyazhsk Maslenitsa

Many holidays and folk festivals take place in Sviyazhsk every year. They gather not only all the locals, but also tourists from all over the island. I especially like Sviyazhsk Maslenitsa. Here, many traditions are mixed and, along with Russian games, Tatar chants, various competitions are held, Maslenitsa pancakes with condensed milk and sour cream, tea from a thermos, and sbiten are distributed.

If you're here in March, don't miss the theater performances, the taking of the town out of the snow and the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy. I advise you not to stand aside and personally participate in interactive programs with dances, games and various entertainments. Active men will enjoy competitions of strength and dexterity, where they will have to leave behind knives and axes.

Sviyazhsk soup

The island hosts the gastronomic festival “Sviyazhskaya Ukha” every year. The purpose of the event is to prepare delicious fish soup that everyone can try. During the holiday, you will be able to buy a gift for your loved ones, as craftsmen here perform wood carving and fire plates in front of you.

In addition, tourists are offered to take part in culinary competitions and see the battle of chefs for the most delicious and aromatic fish soup. And in the evening you can walk along with the carnival throughout the island and watch archery performances.

By the way, children have especially fun here. For the youngest guests of the holiday there is a special entertainment where seasoned fishermen teach how to hold a fishing rod and catch fish correctly.

Museum Regatta

One of the most exciting events in Sviyazhsk is the museum regatta. This project is a national treasure and takes place on the Volga every year. Its goal is to study the history of Russian rivers, as well as create a large exhibition. Such an event combines not only information products for the media and support for the general culture of Sviyazhsk, but also a sporting event.

Believe me, if you are in Sviyazhsk in the summer, it is impossible to miss such beauty. The regatta contains mystery and a certain romance, so all the museums on the island support the event in every possible way. At this time, all cultural sites are open to tourists and with special love they answer all questions about the historical and natural attractions of the island.

By the way, athletes not only from all over Tatarstan, but also from nearby regions and republics take part in the regatta. Therefore, if you want to get acquainted with the culture of other cities while staying in Sviyazhsk, then use this chance.

Safety. What to watch out for

Sviyazhsk seemed to me a very sincere city in which there is nothing to beware of. The only point that you should pay attention to in advance is the taxi fare. Check the price of the trip in advance so that the announced amount does not come as a surprise to you upon arrival.

Things to do

Apart from historical and cultural values, Sviyazhsk cannot offer other entertainment. But as a rule, people don’t come here for other emotions, so everyone remains happy.

Shopping and shops

People come to the island town of Sviyazhsk for cultural treasures and rarely leave here with valuable purchases. So don't waste your money on trinkets and pay attention to the history of the city.

Bars. Where to go

If you want to drink an interesting drink, welcome to the capital of Tatarstan. In Kazan you will find a lot of cool establishments that offer all kinds of drinks. But in Sviyazhsk, alas, such places cannot be found.

Clubs and nightlife

The island's youth periodically go to have fun mainland. Therefore, if today is Friday and you really want to have fun, meet the local funny people and go for a walk with them. You won't be able to dance on the island until the morning.

Extreme Sports

Despite the fact that tourism on the island is quite developed, extreme species there is no sports here. Although the close proximity to water allows you to build a lot of entertainment. Maybe I just gave you a start-up idea?

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Finding souvenirs in Sviyazhsk is not difficult. At every tourist and interesting place you will immediately see kiosks with local products. Typically, such stores sell characteristic figurines made in the old style. They seem unusual for a tourist from Moscow or St. Petersburg, so they are bought up instantly. But magnets with images of local attractions are not a gift that should be brought from the island city.

Wood and clay

While in Sviyazhsk, pay attention to goods made of wood and clay, as well as textiles embroidered with patterns.

For a grandmother, such a gift will be pleasant to the soul and will organically fit into the overall design. The price for them varies from 500 to 2000 rubles.

Honey

It’s worth bringing honey and sbiten for friends or colleagues.

In order not to be mistaken in taste, ask the seller to try the sweetness. Usually they don’t refuse and offer treats right from the counter. The price for a small jar of honey will be 350 rubles.

Handmade

In my opinion, souvenir shops should be avoided, but if you notice handicrafts, pay attention to them.

Clay pots, birch bark figurines, plates, painted by the experienced hand of a master, look very stylish and will delight your loved ones. Such a gift will cost approximately 650 rubles.

Coins

But the best purchases will be medallions or coins forged using 18th-century technology. Their prices vary everywhere, but I do not recommend purchasing coins that cost more than 250 rubles.

Food

Just before leaving, don’t forget to buy traditional treats of Tatar cuisine: smoked horse meat and chak-chak.

Horse meat costs about 700 rubles per kilogram, and dessert will cost you 500 rubles.

How to get around the city

The island-city of Sviyazhsk is located on a very small area, and the entire space of the city can be walked on foot. Therefore, there is no need for public transport here, since you can walk to any architectural or cultural attraction on your own.

If, unlike me, you are a good bicycle driver, then you can take a two-wheeled mode of transport in Kazan and bring it here. The rental price will be about 550 rubles per day.

Taxi. What features exist

Taxis do not operate inside the city, but you can catch them at the foot of the hill where Sviyazhsk begins. To get to the taxi depot you need to climb the metal stairs, which will take about 5-10 minutes. To get to Kazan you need to pay about 700 rubles. But, as in any city in Russia, you can reduce the price if you negotiate with the driver yourself.

Transport rental

Previously, it was possible to get to the island only through a waterway, but when Sviyazhsk was connected to the mainland, many tourists switched to a more accessible form of transport. Renting a car allows a tourist not to keep track of time and stop being associated with the departure of ships or buses.

Booking transport for one day, in my opinion, is unreasonable, but by renting a car for several days at once you can visit not only Sviyazhsk, but also take a ride around Kazan and other memorable places in Tatarstan.

To rent a car you need to find specialized ones. After selecting the company and brand of transport, you must conclude a rental agreement. You will be asked to present your passport and license. After which you will be given the car keys and a copy of the contract, which should be kept for the entire life of the vehicle.

Whether there will be gasoline in the car depends on the company you choose. There is an unspoken rule: the higher brand of car you purchased, the more expensive the rental. In this case, claiming a full tank is quite logical, but you can always buy gasoline right on the spot.

The price for renting a vehicle varies everywhere, but not significantly. Usually you can rent a car for 1000 rubles per day.

You can get to Sviyazhsk from the city along the M7 highway and set your navigator to the village of Isakovo. After it, do not miss the sign and the turn to Sviyazhsk.

There are no special notes on driving in Tatarstan, and especially on the way to Sviyazhsk, so feel free to take any car you like and follow the intended route. Don’t forget to pay attention to winking cars - this means that traffic police are waiting for you on the way, and also thank the drivers by simply raising your hand.

Sviyazhsk - holidays with children

Very young guests of the island may find it boring and tiring here, so traveling with children about three years old is not worth it. But for older children it can be quite interesting.

I advise you not to pass by the Horse Yard. It was erected in the 17th century and over time rebuilt into a real complex of ethnographic history. Ride a horse on this unique place definitely worth it. If you are afraid for your child and don’t trust the instructors, you can take a ride on an old carriage. After such an interesting leisure time, I recommend having dinner at a local tavern, and at the very end, purchasing a souvenir in the courtyard of the complex.

In addition to the Horse Yard, Sviyazhsk has a whole entertainment complex - “Lazy Torzhok”. It is built in style medieval city and will appeal to active children. Here you can not only watch blacksmiths at work, but also try your hand at pottery or blacksmithing.

The cultural center offers special entertainment for boys - competitions in archery accuracy. By the way, they will shoot in armor created according to sketches of the last century. It will be interesting for girls and their parents to visit a real show where knightly tournaments take place.

Ski holiday

Ski holiday in Sviyazhsk, unfortunately, it is completely absent. Therefore, in winter this island seems to fall asleep. But despite this, you can feel the history of the place at any time of the year.

Anything to add?

Sviyazhsk is an island in the Volga River near Kazan. In the middle of the 16th century, on the local hill, by order of Ivan the Terrible, a city was founded, which was the main base during the conquest of the Kazan Khanate.
In the 18th century, Sviyazhsk gradually lost its importance, and since 1932, by decree of the Presidium of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee, it completely lost its city status, turning into a rural settlement.

Did you know? Sviyazhsk became an island only in 1957 after the flooding of the lowlands with the waters of the Kuibyshev Reservoir.

Sights of the city of Sviyazhsk and their photos with descriptions

The island-city of Sviyazhsk is known primarily for its religious attractions - ancient monasteries and temples. In addition to complexes of church architecture, tourists will encounter here attractive urban developments preserved from the 19th century, as well as unique museums.

Did you know? In addition to sightseeing in Sviyazhsk, tourists on the island are offered to take part in various historical reconstructions and shows.

Museum-reserve "Island-city of Sviyazhsk"

Museum-reserve "Island-city of Sviyazhsk"

In fact, the entire territory of the island with its architectural sights and cultural heritage is one large museum complex of the state historical, architectural and art museum-reserve “Island-city of Sviyazhsk”.
The main fund of the GIAKhM “Island-city of Sviyazhsk” was created in 2009 by decree of the government of the Republic of Tatarstan. It includes 37 cultural sites, as well as more than 33,000 exhibits telling about the history and archaeology, civil war and repression that took place on the island. The exhibitions of the complex are presented in several museums of Sviyazhsk:
Museum of History
This institution is located in a government building built in the 1840s. The museum has two exhibitions that, with the help of archaeological finds, historical documents and paintings, tell about the stages of the city’s development and the daily life of the townspeople until the beginning of the 20th century.
Museum-prison
In the 1938-1940s. The NKVD prison was located in the public offices building. In the museum’s exhibitions, in addition to prisoners’ household items, you can see unique paintings by the repressed Vladimir Mikhailovich Golitsyn, a famous navigator and painter, who served time here.
Horse yard
The wooden horse yard was erected in the 16th century, and later - in the 18th century - it was replaced with a stone building. For a long time the building was in decline, and only in 2009 it was restored. This ethnographic complex is especially popular among tourists with children.
All attractions of the GIAKhM “Island-grad Sviyazhsk” are available to tourists from 10:00 to 18:00, seven days a week.

Important! From October 1 to April 31, Monday is a day off at the Sviyazhsk Island-Grad Museum Reserve.

Religious buildings

Assumption Monastery

On the small island of Sviyazhsk there are four monasteries and eleven churches, five of which have been destroyed. Some of these monasteries deservedly lay claim to the title of objects World Heritage UNESCO.

• Assumption Monastery - this monastery on the island of Sviyazhsk was founded in 1555. One of the first printing houses of the Holy Scriptures in Russia was founded there. The monastery was closed after the October Revolution, and the ark with its main relic - the relics of St. Herman - was opened. Since the 1930s was here Correctional Facility, and later a mental hospital. In 1997, restoration work began on the surviving Assumption Cathedral and St. Nicholas Church, which continues today.
• Trinity Church is the most ancient temple John the Baptist Convent. It was cut down near Uglich with other buildings of the fortress, built in 1551 by order of Ivan the Terrible. Marked wooden beams were transported along the Volga to the site of the future city of Sviyazhsk and erected in one day. Today, this is the only remaining one of the first wooden buildings and is vying for a place on the UNESCO list of attractions.
• The Temple of Constantine and Helena is the only surviving church on the island that is not a monastery. It was erected at the end of the 17th century on the site of an ancient wooden church built back in 1551. During the period of Soviet rule, a museum was located here, and since 1993, religious services have resumed.

Other temples of Sviyazhsk:

• Chapel of Nicholas and Alexandra;
• Cathedral of the Icon of the Mother of God;

• Church of Sergius of Radonezh;
• Ascension Monastery.

Architecture

The isolation from the outside world that arose after the village of Sviyazhsk was turned into an island allowed the unique layout and architecture of a typical 19th-century county town to remain untouched.

Estate of merchant F. T. Kamenev

Today, most local residents have been relocated to municipal apartments, and their houses are being reconstructed and transferred to various institutions.

• The estate of the merchant F. T. Kamenev is one of the most remarkable architectural monuments of Sviyazhsk. The house was built in the 19th century in the style of classicism with elements of Russian wooden architecture. Since 2010, the building has been restored and a hotel is located in it.
• Rozhdestvenskaya Square is an architectural dominant in the center of Sviyazhsk, around which there are several interesting objects: the city school; fire brigade barracks; lower vocational school. From the square itself there is a breathtaking view of the Volga, so this the best place for relaxation after a grueling excursion.

Other buildings:

• Polyakov's house;
• district gymnasium;
• almshouse;

• Illarionov's house;
• office building.

Memorable places

In the history of Sviyazhsk, unfortunately, the dark events of the period of the civil war in Russia and Stalin’s repressions, which are narrated by the monuments of this island, left their mark.

• The monument to the victims of political repression is a stone stele erected at the burial site of 98 bodies discovered in 2010. It depicts a prisoner releasing a dove as a symbol of the desire for freedom. The author of the monument is Honored Artist of Uzbekistan Mahmut Gasimov. On the island of Sviyazhsk, which in the 1940s was part of the Gulag, according to various sources, about 5,000 people died of starvation and were shot.
• The wall of the Communards and the stone obelisk are monuments erected at the site of the execution of the Red Guards during the first political repressions in 1918. Every tenth soldier from the units stationed on the island was killed by order of Trotsky, after the failure of an attempt to drive the White troops out of Kazan.

Did you know? According to eyewitnesses, a monument to Judas Iscariot was erected on the island of Sviyazhsk during the civil war. But neither the sculpture itself nor any accurate information confirming these rumors remains.

What to see in Sviyazhsk in one day

All the attractions of the island-city are located on its small territory of 65 hectares, and they can be explored in just one day. There are many guides working on the island, but if you plan to see everything on your own, it is better to follow approximately this route:

• Start your tour with historical museum in the building of government buildings.
• Next, visit the prison museum, located in the government building, which served as prison No. 8 of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Tatarstan in the 1930s-1940s.
• After getting acquainted with the museum exhibitions, visit the Assumption Monastery.
• Next, take a stroll through the center of Sviyazhsk, where you can see unique merchant mansions.
• After passing through the entire island, you will find the Church of Constantine and Helena, and on the other side you will see the Church of the Makaryevsky Monastery.
• The excursion should end with a visit to the St. John the Baptist Monastery, on the territory of which there are several churches.

Did you know? You can get to Sviyazhsk by car or bus along the new dam. But the best way to travel is to choose a boat trip from the city of Kazan.

What you can see in Sviyazhsk with children

. And after watching the video we specially selected for you, you will be convinced that it is a very interesting and unusual place.

Our readers may want to suggest their own version sightseeing tour sightseeing on the island of Sviyazhsk? Be sure to leave your recommendations in the comments!

One of the pearls of Tatarstan is rightfully the city - the island of Sviyazhsk. Located in one of most beautiful places Russia, having a huge amount historical monuments and special energy, this city has rightfully become very attractive for tourists.

You can get to Sviyazhsk by road transport, along the M7 highway, but upon arrival, you will have to leave the car in the parking lot, because the entire city is a pedestrian zone. You can get to Sviyazhsk by boat from Kazan, enjoying the beautiful views and listening to the entertaining stories of the guide.

There are few places in Russia where there are so many attractions in such a small area as in Sviyazhsk. Most interesting places islands:

When visiting the island city, it is impossible to ignore the building of the river station. Despite the equipment that allows servicing modern river transport, it’s as if he stepped out of the pages of Ostrovsky’s books.
Arriving in Sviyazhsk, a person finds himself in a different era, with a different flow of time and with different moral values, and the environment of the station immediately sets him up for the correct perception.

Location: Rozhdestvenskaya street - 1A.

The fresco painting, the original fragments of which have been preserved over a fairly large area, gives the temple a special value. At the time of the foundation of the temple, the frescoes of the Assumption Cathedral were, in truth, a revolutionary word in iconography. Their plots were taken by the creators not only from canonical texts, but also from apocryphal legends.

Here is the only image of St. Christopher with a horse's head in Russia; later such icons were banned by church authorities. Also in the cathedral you can see the only fresco image of Ivan the Terrible. In general, the frescoes of the Assumption Cathedral in Sviyazhsk are very close to the Western European style of church painting, which is very unusual for Russian churches of the 16th century.

Location: Uspenskaya street - 1.

The Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker is the first stone refectory church and was built in 1555-1556. The author of the project is unknown, but there is evidence that the Pskov artel of masons Ivan Shirai took part in the construction of the temple, which, obviously, introduced into its architectural appearance elements characteristic of the church complexes of Pskov.

The height of the building and the laconicism of the facade make it dominant both in the Assumption Monastery complex and in the architecture of the entire city.

Location: Nikolskaya street.

In addition to churches, some of which are active, on the territory of the monastery there is a wooden abbot’s complex, cells for novices and nuns, and a stone refectory.

In operating churches, pilgrims can venerate such shrines as the icons of the “Tikhvin Mother of God”, the “Inexhaustible Chalice”, the image of John the Baptist, and the relics of St. Herman of Kazan. The ensemble of the monastery, created over three centuries, forms the majestic appearance of Sviyazhsk. In the territory temple complex There is an architectural and art museum.

Trinity Church is the oldest building in Sviyazhsk. This wooden structure done without a single nail. Construction was carried out under the leadership of the first Russian military engineer, clerk Ivan Vyrodkov. It is to him that historians attribute the idea of ​​​​building Sviyazhsk. The fortress was cut down many kilometers from the site of construction, in the city of Myshkin. Then all the logs were numbered and secretly transported to the banks of Sviyaga. In a matter of days, powerful fortifications were erected 30 kilometers from the then enemy Kazan, which played a huge role in its capture by Russian troops in 1552.

The carved iconostasis, wooden images of saints, and ancient icons give the temple a discreet coziness, and the knowledge that Ivan the Terrible himself could communicate with higher powers here makes the temple one of the most attractive places in Sviyazhsk.

Location: Troitskaya street - 3.

The Church in the Name of St. Sergius of Radonezh began to be built in the 16th century by order of Tsar Boris Fedorovich. The building is made of white limestone, the decor is very laconic, typical of the Pskov style.

Presumably, craftsmen from Pskov took part in the construction of the temple. On one of the outer walls there is an ancient fresco depicting the “Trinity”. The temple is one of architectural gems Sviyazhsk

Before the revolution, this church was the only township church in Sviyazhsk. The current stone building was built in the 18th century on the site of a wooden church. Its appearance clearly shows the influence of the Baroque style, which makes the church very elegant and joyful.

Since the 20s of the last century, the building has not been used for religious ceremonies. Only in the 90s was its direct purpose returned, and now residents of Sviyazhsk and pilgrims from all over Russia attend regularly scheduled services.

Location: Konstantinovskaya street - 2.

A landmark of Sviyazhsk, built in our time, is the chapel in the Name of the Royal Passion-Bearers, consecrated in 2004. It is dedicated to the family of the last Russian emperor, who suffered martyrdom at the hands of the Bolshevik government. At the entrance to the temple there is an icon depicting the royal family. There are many ancient icons in the chapel, some of which stream myrrh from time to time.

Since its foundation, Sviyazhsk, first of all, was a military fortress, which implied the presence of the best weapons for those times. In the 16th century these were cannons. Each of them was individual, and even had its own name. For example, “Snake”, “Dragon”, “Whistle”.

The Nativity Gate of the city was considered the most fortified, where the “Maiden’s Head” cannon was installed, which received this name because of the image on the gun carriage of a head reminiscent of Medusa Gargona. In our time, through the efforts of restorers, with the active participation of caring local residents, this cannon was recreated according to drawings found in ancient chronicles. Now it adorns the entrance to the Sviyazhsk Museum of Local Lore.

Location: Moskovskaya street - 6.

You can learn more about the history of Sviyazhsk, its temples, its legends by visiting the magnificent exhibition of the local museum. There are many interactive exhibits here, which is especially impressive for young visitors. For example, you can try yourself as an archaeologist, activate all excursion routes Sviyazhsk on the big one electronic map, and skillfully made panoramas will not leave anyone indifferent.

Location: Uspenskaya street - 22.

This monument is dedicated to a black page in the history of Sviyazhsk, and the whole country. After the revolution, the city became a place of executions and torture. Ancient monasteries turned into dungeons. There is a legend that, by order of Trotsky, a monument to Judas was erected here in 1918.

However, there is no material evidence of this fact, but in Sviyazhsk there is a monument to the victims of repression, rare in its poignancy. A lattice is carved into the stone block, through which the prisoner’s hand is inserted, holding a free bird. It is a must-visit to honor the memory of the innocent victims and not remain indifferent to attempts to turn back history.

Location: on the side of the dam at the entrance to the island.

The Lazy Torzhok historical reconstruction complex perfectly recreates the atmosphere of centuries gone by. There are a lot of people working here souvenir shops, which sell unique handmade products. Several times a day, master classes on pottery, blacksmithing, and leather crafts are held.

You can also try your hand at painting clay toys or making birch bark products. On weekends, battles that took place in the 16th century between Russians and Tatars are reenacted on the square. Here you can put on medieval armor and try out different kinds weapons.

Location: Uspenskaya street - 2b.

Not far from the “Lazy Torzhok” there is a horse yard. Here you can ride in a phaeton or on horseback. The horses are amazingly beautiful, many of them were former champions of international competitions. You can feed them and take pictures.

Of course, the attraction of Sviyazhsk is the landscapes of Russian nature, which both artists of past centuries and modern creators loved to paint.

The combination of the mighty calm of the waters washing the island and the majestic power of the temples leaves no one indifferent. But the unique architecture of the town’s public and residential buildings also has a peculiar charm that touches the heart of any Russian person.

Why else is it necessary to visit Sviyazhsk

In addition to visiting historical places, the island city offers interesting cultural program. Merry folklore festivals are held here throughout the year.

The friendliness and hospitality of the local residents deserves a separate discussion, which is facilitated by the presence comfortable hotels and restaurants. Most people who visit this wonderful city always have a desire to return here again.