Kazan is cozily nestled on seven hills on the Volga’s left bank, in the heart of Russia’s Middle Volga Region. Today it is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, proud of its millennial history. The word “Kazan” is pronounced in roughly the same way in different languages but in Tatar the word means “(melting) pot”. This translation is well suited to the city’s diverse history and dynamic present-day life.

Since the days of old Kazan, located on two of the most important trade routes, the Great Volga Way and the Northern Peltry Way, has played a key role in commerce. In recent years, the city once again is recognized all over the world, gaining more and more prestige. This phenomenon has an explanation. The ancient city on the Volga has an open and hospitable nature and benefits from a centuries-old reputation of a safe and well-developed region.

It takes only an hour to fly to Tatarstan’s capital from Moscow, and the city often hosts events of both national and international scale. The city always offers the highest level of hospitality to its guests.

In 2005, Kazan lavishly celebrated its millennial anniversary. The best proof of the event’s importance is the attendance of guests from over 40 different countries.

After the anniversary celebrations, Kazan became known as the Eastern capital of Russia and the center of the Republic of Tatarstan, characterized by political and economic stability.

This message echoed around the world. As soon as the spring of 2007, the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development held the Financing: Exploring New Frontiers Business Forum. Businessmen and bankers from more than 60 different countries gathered in Kazan for EBRD’s annual Board of Governors Meeting.

In the summer of the same year, Tatarstan’s capital provided a warm welcome to a large number of government officials and public figures, mayors and scientists from 69 different countries. All these guests were attending the Congress of the Organization of World Heritage Cities. Kazan was the first city in Eurasia honored to host a congress of this authoritative organization.

Hospitality has always been highly valued in the East. Therefore, Kazan, showing its traditional cordiality, is eager to greet everyone who wishes to celebrate the ideals of the student sports movement, the spirit of youth, health and fair competition. Kazan is ready to take on the role of the 27th Summer Universiade capital in 2013.