Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin, Medieval fortress in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.
Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin is a fortress complex in the historic center of Nizhny Novgorod in Russia, with thirteen red brick towers connected by massive walls extending over two kilometers along the Volga riverbank. The complex rises on a steep hill above the confluence of the Volga and Oka rivers and forms an irregular polygon with broad walkways on the wall tops.
Construction of this military fortress began in 1500 under the supervision of Italian architects, replacing an older wooden fortification after it was destroyed during a fire. Over the following centuries, the complex lost its military importance and was transformed into the administrative center of the city.
The name kremlin comes from the old Russian word for citadel and now marks the political center of the city with the seat of the Nizhny Novgorod Oblast governor. Inside the walls, official ceremonies and public events take place regularly, bringing together residents and visitors.
Visitors can walk the entire circuit of the walls along footpaths that lead to several observation points overlooking both rivers. Access is free and the paths remain easy to navigate in dry weather, while snow or ice requires extra care.
During World War II, the towers served as air defense positions with anti-aircraft guns mounted on the rooftops to protect against German air raids. Some of the original watchtowers were later extended with additional floors to be used as living quarters for soldiers and administrative buildings.
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