The highest part of the Kazan Kremlin is a complex consisting of the Palace Church, the Syuyumbike Tower, and the Governor's Palace. The latter is now occupied by the President of the Republic of Tatarstan, so in fact it is now more of a Presidential Palace.
In olden times, for strategic reasons, the Kazan khans preferred the northern side of the Kremlin for placing their chambers. This is also where the Governor's Palace was built. Its architect, K.A. Ton, known for his outstanding Moscow projects - the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and the Grand Kremlin Palace - drew up a design for a luxurious residence for the Kazan governor. Its realization in the 1840s was overseen by A.I. Peske from St. Petersburg. The interior design was entrusted to M.P. Korinfsky.
The palace turned out magnificent - in the style of Russian classicism, progressive and elegant. The building also features noticeable elements of Baroque and Old Russian architecture.
In 2001, many years of large-scale restoration work were completed. Now the Governor's Palace looks as if it had been built only yesterday. It is rightfully considered one of Kazan's most striking landmarks and a source of pride for the city's residents.
