Severnaya Tower of Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin

The Severnaya Tower is a round defensive structure in Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin featuring four tiers with combat windows. The tower contains an internal passageway built within the thickness of its circular walls.

The tower was built as part of the kremlin fortification with military functions in mind. During the 18th century it housed a provincial military warehouse, later converted to police storage in 1827.

The tower takes its alternative name, Ilyinskaya, from the Church of Saint Elijah the Prophet visible across the ravine. Visitors notice how the tower and church face each other across the landscape.

The tower stands at an elevated point above the Pochaina ravine with views toward the Volga slopes. It is best experienced by walking the kremlin walls from the outside or exploring the upper sections of the fortress grounds.

Despite its name meaning North Tower, it is not actually the northernmost structure of the kremlin, even though the fortress wall aligns with true north. This naming quirk surprises many visitors exploring the fortification's layout.

Location: Nizhny Novgorod

Inception: 16 century

Part of: Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin

GPS coordinates: 56.32875,43.99810

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:27