Naberezhnye Chelny, which grew up on the site of a small village founded by peasants from Yelabuga, is the only competitor to Tolyatti for the right to be called Russian Detroit. Until the last third of the last century, it was an unremarkable polis, which received city status in 1930. Everything changed in the early 70s, when it was decided to build the Kama Automobile Plant here. In just the next twenty years, the population of Naberezhnye Chelny grew almost 15 times, reaching 500 thousand people. Reliable and practical KAMAZ trucks, rolling off the assembly line of the city-forming enterprise with chronometric punctuality, brought worldwide fame to the policy. Today's Naberezhnye Chelny is not only the most important industrial cluster of the Volga region, but also a significant cultural, educational and tourist center. Any traveler will be interested in visiting here.
Where is the city
The beautiful and clean city of Naberezhnye Chelny is located on the left bank of the Kama , the main tributary of the great Russian river Volga, in the Republic of Tatarstan.
The city of Naberezhnye Chelny is located:
- 205,000 m from the capital of Tatarstan, Kazan;
- 38,000 m from Nizhnekamsk (Republic of Tatarstan);
- 133,000 m from the city of Izhevsk (Republic of Udmurtia);
- 252,000 m from the city of Ufa (Republic of Bashkortostan);
- 299,000 m from Ulyanovsk;
- 319,000 m from Samara;
- 343,000 m from Perm;
- 520,000 m from Yekaterinburg;
- 525,000 m from Nizhny Novgorod;
- 923,000 m from Moscow.
The total area of Naberezhnye Chelny is 171,000 square meters. m. In terms of population, the city ranks 2nd after Kazan. According to 2022 statistics, about 534,000 people live here.
Damn town
On a steep cliff there is a unique monument of history and archeology - the Yelabuga settlement, nicknamed the Devil's. In the 10th century, a Bulgar fortress was built on this site.
Enjoy the panorama of the merchant city with the domes of churches, the Toima River flowing into the Kama, and water meadows.
City `s history
Naberezhnye Chelny (the sights of the city are clear proof of this) has its own centuries-old history. According to archaeological excavations, the first settlers appeared on the lands occupied by the modern metropolis back in the 3rd century BC. e.
In 1626, a village called Mysovye Chelny was founded here. Later it was renamed Krasnye Chelny. Next door there was another settlement - Berezhnye Chelny. From all these villages a city grew. This status was assigned to the settlement in 1930.
Until 1781, the territory of the settlement was part of the Kazan province, and from 1796 - the Orenburg province. Later, until 1920, the territory became part of the Ufa province. By the end of the 19th century. The city of Naberezhnye Chelny is already the largest timber processing center in the Kama region. This left an imprint on the subsequent growth and development of the city.
At the beginning of the last century, Naberezhnye Chelny was a very developed and rich settlement. In addition to the grain industry, trade and shipping developed well here. A large pier appeared on the Kama.
Educational institutions, churches, retail outlets, flour mills, forestry and other cooperatives are opening in the city. By 1930, when the settlement of Naberezhnye Chelny received city status, about 9,300 people lived here.
The city began to grow and develop rapidly. The main impetus for this was the construction and opening of the Kama Automobile Plant.
For the workers of a new large enterprise of national importance, a lot of housing was built and new neighborhoods were erected. In addition, specialists from all over the USSR traveled to the all-Union construction site. They also needed housing. The population was growing.
In addition to KAMAZ, dairy and meat plants, crane and pipe factories, paper and cardboard factories, construction and other large enterprises appeared in the city. The city opened: a large river port, a railway station, educational institutions, stadiums, palaces of culture, theaters, museums, parks, and exhibition galleries.
The main stage of development of the city of Naberezhnye Chelny occurred during the leadership of the USSR by L. I. Brezhev. In 1982 the city was renamed in his honor. The historical name was returned in 1988. In the 90s. in Naberezhnye Chelny, as in many cities of the country, there was a decline in production and industry in general.
Only in the 2000s. a new rise and development of the city began. A new large automobile plant appears here. The airport has been given the status of “international”. New educational institutions, temples and mosques, parks, stadiums, business and shopping centers opened in the city.
The main symbols of the city
Naberezhnye Chelny is a city where many sights are its symbols.
"KAMAZ"
“KAMAZ” can be confidently called one of the main symbols of Naberezhnye Chelny. This abbreviation stands for both the famous plant itself, from which the rapid development of the city began, and a car known throughout the world.
In addition, the city has the famous KAMAZ-master racing team - the pride of Naberezhnye Chelny and the whole country, a multiple winner of international rallies and off-road racing.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, industrial zone of the city, behind highway No. 1.
Business-
The business, which local residents called “Tyubeteika,” is another recognizable symbol of the city of Naberezhnye Chelny. The 25-story skyscraper appeared 35 years after the start of construction.
Today here is the center of business and cultural life, where shopping, medical and entertainment centers, a cinema, a bank, business offices, cafes and restaurants are located. The top of the building is crowned with an observation deck, from where the city and the Kama River are clearly visible.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Khasan Tufan Avenue, 12.
Letters "YAR Chally"
The letters “YAR Chally”, 8 m high, adorn the hills above the main embankment of Naberezhnye Chelny and are its unique symbol. At a height of 35 meters, the city flag always flutters above the letters.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, st. Tabeev embankment.
Central Street
Central Street in Naberezhnye Chelny was once called Dvoryanskaya. It has historical significance. For 100 years, the street was the main one in the village, which was located on the site of the modern city. It contains buildings that are architectural monuments of Naberezhnye Chelny.
The street has a pedestrian zone and decoration in the form of a unique triumphal arch, on which its name is written in 2 languages.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, from Avenue named after. Musa Jalil to the Taube Mosque.
"Maidan"
"Maidan" is one of the main squares of the city, which can accommodate up to 15,000 spectators. It is located in the Coastal Park. There is an amphitheater, a large modern screen and stands. All the main festivals of the city take place on the square.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Pribrezhny Park.
Hotel "Skullcap"
This is how local residents nicknamed the 24-story business hotel because for a long time the cylindrical projection on the roof, similar to a skullcap, was painted in the colors of the flag of Tatarstan.
Now there is an observation deck on the top floor of the building.
Famous places of the city
Naberezhnye Chelny (the city's attractions are among the famous places worth visiting) has buildings of historical significance, and many were created by modern sculptors and architects.
Museum of History and Local Lore
The local history museum has been operating since 1972. Its exhibitions include more than 40,000 types of exhibits. There are authentic artifacts here that tell about the national foundations and traditions of the Tatar people, about the history and chronology of ancient events. Entire exhibitions are housed here, recreating interiors from different eras, events of the war years and archaeological finds.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, village. Hydroelectric power station, st. Gidrostroiteley, 16.
Tatar Drama Theater
The State Tatar Drama Theater named after Ayaz Gilyazov was opened in 1990. At that time it did not have its own premises and worked on the territory of the House of Culture. Since 1996 it has its own stage and modern status.
Today the theater troupe includes honored and people's artists of the Republic of Tatarstan. The repertoire is quite varied. It features performances that have won awards from various festivals.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, st. Nizametdinova, 29.
Church of Cosmas and Damian
The Church of Saints Cosmas and Damian was in Chelny embankment back in the 18th century, but being wooden it burned to the ground in a fire. The stone church was built in 1859. The temple was very beautiful and immediately became a landmark of the area. In Soviet times, like other churches, it was closed and used as storage facilities.
At the end of the 20th century. the church was returned to the diocese. It was restored, and stone walls and majestic arched gates were erected around it.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Naberezhnye Chelny Avenue, 37A.
Temple of Seraphim of Sarov
The Church of St. Seraphim of Sarov was erected on the banks of the Kama River in 2006. It took about 10 years to build. At the site of its construction, there used to be a church of Elijah the Prophet, which was first closed during Soviet times and then completely demolished. During the construction of the temple, a small chapel was built nearby, where services were held all the years before the opening of the main building.
One of the attractions of Naberezhnye Chelny is the Temple of Seraphim of Sarov
The main value of the temple was the icon of St. Seraphim of Sarov and the unique iconostasis made by Palekh icon painters.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Naberezhnye Chelny Avenue, 3.
Holy Ascension Cathedral
Construction of the Holy Ascension Cathedral began in 1872 and was completed over the course of almost 20 years. During the years of Soviet power, the temple was destroyed. And since the late 80s. last century they began to actively repair it. The domes were restored and bells were brought in. The first service after the restoration was held in 1990.
Today on the territory of the cathedral there is a chapel, a small church for the sacrament of baptism, a library, and a Sunday school.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Chulman Avenue, 127.
Tawba Mosque
The Tauba Mosque began construction in 1989. Its doors opened to parishioners in 1992. The building is made in the Art Nouveau style. The facade of the building is decorated with inscriptions with excerpts from the Koran, and the minaret is more than 50 m high.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, kl. Central, 6.
Nur Ikhlas Mosque
The Nur-Ikhlas Mosque is the largest Muslim temple in Naberezhnye Chelny. It is made in a beautiful architectural style, has a large dome and a main minaret 46 m high. The building can accommodate up to 500 people. Near the mosque there is the Coastal Park. The mosque building and grounds are beautifully illuminated in the evening, and there are many flower beds and lawns around.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Chulman Avenue, 108/5.
Victory Park
Victory Park in Naberezhnye Chelny is one of the most popular places among citizens and guests of the city. It was opened in 1975. The park territory is divided into 2 parts. One contains memorable exhibits of military equipment, an alley of heroes of the Great Patriotic War and home front workers. The second part of the park area is reserved for various attractions, playgrounds, and cafeterias.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Mira Avenue, 81.
Boulevard of Enthusiasts
Enthusiastov Boulevard is a pedestrian area in Naberezhnye Chelny. It is all paved with beautiful colored paving slabs. There are many flower beds, sculptural groups and fountains, which are illuminated at night. This beautiful sight leaves no one indifferent.
Local residents and guests of the city love to stroll along the boulevard and relax on the benches along it. It is very beautiful here at any time of the year.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, pedestrian zone from Kh. Tufan Avenue to st. Academician Rubanenko.
Spring "Holy Key" of Panteleimon the Healer
The most famous place in Nizhnekamsk. According to legend, back in 1666, the Muslim Mohammed discovered an icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker near a spring. Since then, the spring of Panteleimon the Healer has been revered by both Muslims and Orthodox Christians.
Tourists tie ribbons on the wishing tree, and newlyweds leave locks on the “kissing fence.”
What to see and where to go in Naberezhnye Chelny
Naberezhnye Chelny (the city’s attractions are so numerous that everyone will find entertainment to suit their taste) offers the following places to visit:
| N p/p | Object name | Description | Location |
| 1. | Memorial "Motherland" | Opened on May 9, 1975. Its author is Ildar Khanov, then a young sculptor. The motherland is depicted in the form of a phoenix bird. Her wings are presented in the form of bas-reliefs depicting heroes of the Great Patriotic War. The monument was built very quickly: in just 2 months and a few days. They worked on it without weekends and holidays, almost around the clock. The memorial was opened on the day of the 30th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. At its foot the Eternal Flame burns. | Naberezhnye Chelny, at the intersection of Batenchuk Street and Musa Jalil Avenue. |
| 2. | Art Gallery | It first opened its doors to visitors in 1980. It is the main exhibition hall of the city. There is a large fund of works of art of different directions, which is stored on an area of 400 square meters. m. Exhibitions of folk and national art items are very popular. In addition, valuable art exhibits from the most famous museums in the country are brought to the gallery for exhibitions. Over 55,500 people visit the city’s art gallery every year. | Naberezhnye Chelny, Mira Avenue, 52/16. |
| 3. | Museum of Ecology and Nature Conservation | Opened in 2000, it is on the list of the 10 best museums in the country. It contains exhibits on various topics: from paleontology to the animal world of the Republic. In addition, the museum contains exhibits telling about the culture of different peoples and the discoveries of archaeologists. The museum fund has more than 10,000 exhibits and 20,000 different interesting collections. | Naberezhnye Chelny, Friendship of Peoples Avenue, 19. |
| 4. | Monument to Gabdulla Tukay | The monument to the people's poet of Tatarstan is cast in bronze and opened in 2011 in honor of his 125th anniversary. The poet's image is surrounded by figures representing the heroes of his fairy tales, who are loved and recognized by children. | Naberezhnye Chelny, Mira Avenue, Tukay Square. |
| 5. | Monument to V. Vysotsky | An unusual sculpture in memory of the famous songwriter and performer was installed in 2003. It is located opposite the hotel where V. Vysotsky stayed in 1974 during a tour of the Moscow Taganka Theater in the city. The square near the hotel also received Vysotsky’s name. | Naberezhnye Chelny, st. Hydrostroiteley, V. Vysotsky Square. |
| 6. | Ice Sports | The sports facility opened in 2005 and can accommodate up to 1,500 people. In addition to the ice arena, the building houses a buffet, a conference hall, a health and recreation center, a gym, as well as choreography and acrobatics rooms. | Naberezhnye Chelny, Syuyumbike Avenue, 44. |
| 7. | Memorial named after Musa Jalil | The memorial composition in honor of the people's poet, hero of the Great Patriotic War, shot by the Nazis, was opened in 1985 and dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the Victory. In the Republic of Tatarstan they honor the memory of a hero who was not broken by his enemies. Musa Jalil was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. | Naberezhnye Chelny, Old Town, Komsomolsky district, M. Jalil Park. |
| 8. | Museum of History and Military Glory of Automotive Troops | The museum was opened in 1986. Here you can learn about the history of the exhibits presented in the exhibitions. These are real combat vehicles that took part in battles. The museum contains collections of real military uniforms and ammunition, as well as famous military weapons. | Naberezhnye Chelny, st. Nizametdinova, 26. |
Holidays for real men
Our trip was not complete without purely “male” places, which Naberezhnye Chelny is rich in. One of the institutions that can interest the stronger half of humanity is the Museum of History and Military Glory of the Automotive Troops . The idea of creating the exposition presented here belongs to DOSAAF KAMAZ. Among the exhibits are documents donated by the military, photographs, historical relics, and models of military equipment. Some of them talk about the exploits of Afghan drivers. The exhibition clearly demonstrates what the first military vehicles were like, as well as the process of creating automobile troops. The museum is located at st. Nizametdinova, 26.
Not far from the Kamaz stadium is the Grenada extreme park . Truck and car racing and bike shows take place here. Street racing competitions attract a large number of spectators. There is a bar and disco nearby.
Naberezhnye Chelny is a city that left the warmest and most pleasant impression. Unfortunately, we were not able to get to know Chelny better due to lack of time. We plan to visit the city again in a few years. Tell us what places we missed, what else you can see in Naberezhnye Chelny. We will be glad to receive any advice. Marina Danilevskaya, author.
The article does not pretend to cover all attractions; it reflects the individual experience of our blogger.
Where can you go with children?
Naberezhnye Chelny (the sights of the city will be interesting for adults) is famous for its hospitality. There are places here where young tourists can have fun and spend time with benefits for their health and development.
Puppet Theatre
The State Puppet Theater of Naberezhnye Chelny welcomed its first spectators in 1987. Professional actors who love their work and love young spectators work on its stage.
Every year, new productions appear in the theater’s repertoire and more than 300 performances are shown. Folk and traditional holidays are organized and held here. In addition, the Naberezhnye Chelny Puppet Theater goes on tour to other cities of the country and takes part in various theater festivals.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Shkolny Boulevard, 2.
City Dolphinarium
The Dolphinarium in Naberezhnye Chelny is a branch of the famous Anapa Dolphinarium. It is the only one in the Volga region. It can accommodate up to 350 people. The Dolphinarium pool is filled with real sea water and has a depth of 6 m.
Young and adult guests of the city can watch fascinating shows with dolphins and other sea animals here.
You can take a tour of the entire dolphinarium and chat with its inhabitants. Various festive events, diving classes with experienced trainers, and interesting photo sessions are organized here. The main inhabitants of the dolphinarium are dolphins and fur seals.
Opening hours: 9:00 - 19:00 (Tuesday to Sunday). Price for children's tickets: from 550 rubles. up to 800 rub. (depending on the age of the child; for children under 3 years of age, admission is free). Ticket price for adults is up to 1,300 rubles.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, st. Tukay Embankment, 12/1.
Amusement Park "Grenada"
The Grenada Culture and Recreation Park is located in a natural area and is considered one of the best parks in the country with extreme entertainment.
There is:
- extreme trails;
- football field;
- simulators;
- basketball and volleyball courts;
- tennis court;
- skate park;
- bike paths;
- slides;
- trampolines;
- swing.
The park has swimming pools for children and adults. The park area is always well-groomed and clean. There are many places to relax on benches or comfortable chairs. The Grenada Amusement Park is a great place for children and adults to relax.
Location: Naberezhnye Chelny, Moskovsky Avenue, 104A.
Boulevard of Enthusiasts
The main place for walks, dates and youth get-togethers is famous for its fountains with intricate sculptures by Ildar Khanov .
Abstract figures made of mosaic and concrete have pretentious names (“Evolution”, “Harmony”, etc.). There are many events held on the boulevard, the most colorful being Flower Day in August.
Interesting facts about the city
Naberezhnye Chelny is a beautiful, clean and very hospitable city with its own history.
Syuyumbike Avenue, Naberezhnye Chelny
Here are some interesting facts that were not mentioned above:
- Naberezhnye Chelny is the largest city among all located on the banks of the Kama River.
- The population of the city is multinational, the main part of it is Tatars and Russians.
- Archaeologists have established the time of the first settlements on the site of the city, this is the Bronze Age.
- During archaeological excavations carried out within the city, many bones of ancient animals, including mammoths, were found.
- The Nizhnekamsk reservoir, adjacent to the city, is called the sea by local residents (its width is 20,000 m and its length is 185,000 m).
- Every year in August the city hosts a large flower festival, which is usually timed to coincide with the days of the city and the Republic.
The beautiful city on the Kama - Naberezhnye Chelny always welcomes guests. Its most beautiful places and attractions will not leave anyone indifferent and will remain in the memory of everyone who has been here for a long time.
Reviews from tourists
- Oksana, Bugulma
We came with my husband and children and were satisfied. There are a lot of architectural monuments. I went with the children to the dolphinarium and Victory Park and were impressed. The city is big and green, clean. We had a nice time, but we didn’t have time to see everything, so we want to come back in a couple of years, when the children are older.
- Mikhail, Samara
I’ve heard before about Chelny as a city with trucks, but that’s all. Came on a business trip. With nowhere to go on the weekend, I decided to look for a place to relax and was pleasantly surprised. Now I want to return with my family.
- Natalya, Kazan
As a child, I often went here in winter.
This summer I decided to refresh my memories and took a vacation to come. I really liked the excursion from the art gallery and the historical museum; I spent almost the whole day there and there. I was also pleased with the conditions - the city was clean, the hotel was good. Naberezhnye Chelny is a progressive city, improving every day. A tourist who knows where to go will certainly spend a useful holiday - so that only pleasant memories remain.
