The Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex was included in the World Heritage List in 2014. The site lies on the shores of the Volga River to the south of Kazan. It contains evidence of the medieval city of Bolgar, an early settlement of the civilization of the Volga-Bolgars, which existed between the 7th and 15th centuries AD, and was the first capital of the Golden Horde in the 13th century. Bolgar represents historical cultural exchanges and transformations of Eurasia over several centuries. The property provides remarkable evidence of historic continuity and cultural diversity. It is a symbolic reminder of the acceptance of Islam by the Volga-Bolgars in AD 922 and remains a sacred pilgrimage destination for the Tatar Muslims.
Краткое описание текста.
The archaeological site of Bolgar lies on the shores of the
Volga River approximately 40km south of its confluence
with the River Kama. It contains evidence of the medieval
city of Bolgar, an early settlement of the civilization of
Volga Bolgars, which existed between the 7th and the 15th
centuries. Bolgar was also the first capital of the Golden
Horde in the 13th century. Apart from references to its
spatial organization, the site predominantly preserves its
religious buildings, including a former mosque, a minaret
and several mausoleums, bath houses, remains of a
Khan's palace and shrine as well as its well-preserved
defences consisting of ramparts and moat. For Tatar
Muslims, the historical complex of Bolgar is sacred and a
pilgrimage destination.