There are many beautiful cities in Tatarstan. Among them, Bugulma is one of the largest regional centers of the country. Its history is rich in memorable events, among which is the famous Pugachev uprising. This beautiful and interesting regional center is worth a visit to get acquainted with its rich history and see the sights. The delightful nature of the city offers long walks along its quiet, well-groomed alleys and lush vineyards. And here you can go fishing and swimming in clear river water. We will find out where Bugulma is and how to get there.
Village on the Zai River
It was this status that the modern provincial town of Bugulma had in 1736. A few years later, a Bugulma settlement appeared on the site of the village, inhabited by yasak peasants and exiled soldiers. During the Pugachev uprising, the city was the epicenter of mass protests against the government. Soon the Bugulma settlement got a new status - a county town. At first it was part of the Ufa governorate, then it became part of the Orenburg province (1796). In 1850, Bugulma passed to the Samara province. Since that time, the city has become a major shopping center, and all thanks to its good geographical position: through it passed the road-roads to Kazan from Orenburg and Ufa. In Bugulma, fairs were constantly organized, so people from neighboring cities and weights went here to sell livestock and leather goods. Where is Bugulma located now? A large regional center can be found in the southeast of Tatarstan.
City today
The city of Bugulma (Tatarstan) is a large industrial center. In the XX century, the Tatneft association began to operate here, which included 10 of the largest oil producing enterprises in Tatarstan. Thanks to this event, the city began to develop rapidly. In 1982, he was awarded the Order of the Badge of Honor, and in 2001 he was awarded the Palm Branch of the World (UNESCO) for his progress in cultural development. Now Bugulma has its own airport, several large enterprises. A dairy and meat factory are operating here, production of beer and distillery products is functioning, and the food industry is developing. The city has 3 large branches of Kazan universities. Local youth goes in for sports in the spacious Ice Palace and at the Energetik stadium. Today, the city has many modern buildings that harmoniously coexist with old wooden buildings. Many admire the modern Bugulma. A photo of the city is presented below.
Oldest museum

Arriving in Tatarstan, many tourists are interested in where Bugulma is to go to its famous museum of local lore. It is considered one of the oldest in the country. The museum was opened in 1929, October 1. And for many years now he has been introducing guests to the history of the city and the country as a whole. Here you can get historical information about the Bugulma, hear interesting facts about the Pugachev uprising, the Civil and Great Patriotic War. The institution presents household items of various nationalities that once inhabited the city: Tatars, Chuvashs, Mordovians, Russians. The Museum of Local Lore has a nature department. Here you can get acquainted with the animal and plant life of the region, see mammoth tusks, a stuffed wolf and admire a magnificent collection of butterflies. The museum exposition occupies 2 mansions that were built in the 20th century. One of them belonged to adviser Elachin, and the other was owned by the merchant Klimov. The Bugulma Museum of Local Lore is open daily from 08.00 to 17.00, except Sunday.
Museum dedicated to Yaroslav Hasek
The history of the city of Bugulma will not be fully disclosed if, having been there, you do not visit the famous museum to them.
Yaroslav Hasek. He is known not only in Russia, but throughout Europe. The Museum of J. Hasek can be seen only in two countries: in Tatarstan and the Czech Republic. The famous building is located between the old houses. At the entrance to the museum, guests are greeted by the brave soldier Schweik. And although this is only his sculpture, from afar it seems that a real military man is waiting for you. This house used to belong to the merchant Nizheradze. In 1918, Yaroslav Hasek lived and worked in its walls. The writer stayed in the city only 2 months, but this time was enough for Bugulma to win his heart. In the museum there were old chairs on which Hasek sat. In one of the rooms you can see a forged chest, an old desk with heavy drawers, and, of course, hear the battle of the famous French wall clock. The museum receives visitors daily from 08.00 to 17.00, except on Sundays. Lunch break lasts from 12.00 to 13.00.
Drama theater
The city of Bugulma
(Republic of Tatarstan) has its own theatrical history, which began in the first half of the 20th century. But the theater troupe existed before - in the 19th century. So, in 1897, the Peopleβs House was built in the city, designed for 350 places. He included a theater with a hall. Every year, lovers of musical and dramatic art came up with theatrical productions, which by the beginning of 1908 were 20. There were also organized musical and literary evenings. At the end of the revolution, another circle appeared under the name "Blue Blouse." Subsequently, the Bugulma Drama Theater was created on its basis. During the war, he was led by actress Nina Olshevskaya - a student of Stanislavsky. She was evacuated to Bugulma with her son. It was in the Tatar town that her successful theatrical career began. Years later, the city drama theater was named after her. The theater building was restored to its 70th anniversary. Now it is a worthy decoration of Bugulma. The modern Bugulma Drama Theater operates year-round. It is located at 96 Lenin Street.
Bugulma temples
Where is the city of Bugulma, not everyone knows. But many have heard of the beautiful Bugulma temples:
- Kazan-Bogoroditskaya church.
- Church of St. S. Sarovsky.
- Temple of the Nativity I. Baptist.
- Church of the Holy Great Martyr G. Victorious.
It should be noted that in Tatarstan there are both Orthodox shrines and mosques, which will be written about below.
The Orthodox Kazan-Theotokos Church was built between 1988 and 1993. It was erected in honor of the 1000th anniversary of the baptism of Russia. Now this picturesque building with a four-tier bell tower is not only a place for prayers, but also a tourist attraction.
The Church of St. S. Sarovsky was built in 2006 with charity funds. Divine services are held here on Sundays and public holidays. The basement has a baptismal room.
The church in honor of I. the Forerunner is made of wood, therefore a special atmosphere of warmth and comfort reigns in it. The temple is very attractive both outside and inside. It was lit in 1997 by Bishop Anastasiy of Tatarstan and Kazan. Now it hosts Sunday and holiday services.
The Church of the Holy Great Martyr G. the Victorious has been operating since 1999. It is made in white. A Sunday school is open at the temple, and services are held here on Sundays and public holidays.
Central mosque of the city
The largest mosque in the city is designed, like most Muslim religious buildings, in snow-white colors. It is fenced with an openwork fence made of cast iron. This is a modern Muslim building with a characteristic volumetric, planning solution. In the design of the building, motifs are traced not only of eastern Muslim, but also of Bulgarian architecture. Adherents of Islam come here to pray. Tourists visit the mosque to admire its beautiful design and join the ancient culture. Look again, how beautiful Bugulma is. A photo of the city and its central mosque is presented below.
Things to do in Bugulma
Entertainment in the city is enough. On weekdays and weekends there are a theater, cafes, restaurants, bowling clubs, billiards. Those who like to play sports or lead an active lifestyle should definitely visit the cityβs Ice Palace and the Energetik sports stadium. Fans of intellectual games can go to the chess club. Without exception, all tourists are advised to visit the museums and the main drama theater of the city. History buffs will love to see the memorial complex dedicated to the Great Patriotic War. There the Eternal Flame burns and a model of the Pe-2 aircraft is installed. Some streets of the city are decorated with old cars, including a huge L-9669 steam locomotive, Fordson tractor and others. Those who arrive in Bugulma in early May will be able to attend the colorful Sabantuy celebration.
Sabantuy holiday
Visitors who are prone to romance will be especially pleased to stroll in the evening along the calm streets of Bugulma. It is better to do this in late May and early June. The population of the town at this time begins to celebrate Sabantuy - a holiday that is accompanied by national fun, contests and entertainment events. All this allows you to better know the Tatar culture and customs. And even tourists during this period can try national Tatar dishes absolutely free. It remains only to find out where Bugulma is, and you can go to Sabantuy.
How to get to Bugulma
The city can be found in the south-eastern region of the Republic of Tatarstan. You can fly from Moscow to Bugulma by plane, which departs from Domodedovo International Airport. Average travel time is 1.5 hours. And from the Kazan station, electric trains go to Bugulma. Average journey time is 24 hours. But by car to the Tatar city will have to get about 12 hours.
The Bugulma City Index starts with the following numbers 4232 **. Well, the last information tourists need relates to telephone communications. The area code for Bugulma is + 7β85514. There is no time difference with Moscow.