Location: Kazan, Ostrovsky Str. 15 – Sharif Kamal’s Memorial Flat
Sharif Kamal’s Memorial Flat is a historical gem that dates back to 1944. This museum is a branch of the Republican National Museum of Tatarstan. It is the first of its kind in the republic. The museum officially opened its doors to the public in 1950. The whole exposition is dedicated to featuring the life and works of the Tatar writer – Sharif Kamal, who lived in the house from the year 1918 until his passing in 1942.
The outstanding Tatar literature talent
Sharif Kamal was a highly accomplished Soviet Tatar writer who left a significant impact on the early 20th century Tatar literature as well as Tatar national art. As a writer, playwright, publicist, and translator, Kamal’s contribution to Tatar culture is undeniable. His works included short stories, feuilletons, and the famous story “The Seagulls” (Tatar. “Akcharlaklar”), along with the novels “When the Beautiful is Born” (Tatar. “Matur Tuganda”, and “Firm Step” Tatar. “Nykly Adymnar”). His plays and cycles of poems won him much acclaim. Kamal translated from Russian into Tatar “Dead Souls” by Nikolai Gogol and “Virgin Soil Upturned” by Mikhail Sholokhov. Success of the tranlated works further demonstrated his literary prowess. The writer was also a public figure of great importance, and his contribution to the socialist realism movement in Tatar national art is widely recognized. Overall, Kamal’s work remains an influential part of Tatar culture and literature.
Thе unique and valuable museum proudly showcases the author’s most renowned literary works, such as “Matur tuganda” (“When beauty is born”) and “Buhet ezlәgundu” (“In search of happiness”).
In 2019, Sharif Kamal’s Memorial Flat underwent a remarkable transformation. It was re-opened as the House of the Tatar Book. This institution now features an array of exciting new exhibition halls, a children’s room, a library, mapping and coworking rooms, a bookstore, and even a printing house. The House of the Tatar Book is a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the life and legacy of Sharif Kamal while enjoying the reconstructed flat furnishings, rare memorabilia, and archives. This establishment is a crucial institution that continues to preserve and celebrate the art and history of Tatar literature in the republic.
