On October 25, a researcher of the Bolgar Museum-Reserve I. D. Muhametshin delivered a lecture on “Cities of the Kazan Khanate” to the guests. The audience learned about the history and culture of the Kazan Khanate, its important urban centers.
There were more than 700 settlements, mostly small villages, on the territory of the Kazan Khanate. Large cities played a key role in the economic and political life of the khanate. They were like magnets that attracted people, artisans and merchants.
Kazan was the largest city with a population of up to 50,000 inhabitants. The rest of the cities were small and performed administrative functions. Arsk located north of Kazan was an important trade and craft center. Its strategic position made it a key point on trade routes. Located on the bank of the Volga River, Tatesh was an important port city through which a significant part of the trade flows passed. Another city on the Volga River, Laesh, also played an important role in trade and was known for its artisans. Chally located on the bank of the Kama River was an important trading post and fishing center. Iski-Kazan (Old Kazan) is a historically important city that preceded modern Kazan and played the role of a political center in the past. Historically, these cities date back to the pre-Mongol and Golden Horde times.
With great interest, the audience became acquainted with the way of life and culture reflecting the diversity and complexity of the Kazan Khanate.
18 people attended the lecture.

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