Bolğar, Ancient settlement in Tatarstan, Russia.
Bolğar is an ancient settlement in Spassky District of Tatarstan, now an archaeological site with ruins along the Volga riverbank. The remains include stone structures such as mosques, mausoleums and bathhouses from different periods of medieval times.
The settlement emerged in the 8th century as a trading post on the Volga and later became the capital of the Volga Bulgaria realm. After centuries of trade and growth, it fell into decline in the 14th century following raids and shifts in trade routes.
The place is sacred to Muslims in Russia because Islam was officially adopted here in 922. Pilgrims visit shrines and memorials today that mark this moment of religious history.
Visitors reach the site by road or by water bus from Kazan, with the river trip taking around two hours. Paths lead between the separate ruins, and comfortable shoes are helpful as the grounds cover a large area.
The white mosque built in the 21st century beside the medieval ruins is one of the largest Muslim prayer halls in Europe and draws visitors with its modern architecture. Its courtyard offers wide views over the river and the surrounding fields.
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