Russia. Krasnodar Krai Region. Krasnodar. City center. A group of cossacks wearing their traditional military uniforms during the celebration of the 200th year anniversary of Krasnodar's foundation.The city originated in 1793 as a fortress built by the Cossacks, and became a trading center for southern Russia. Cossacks are a group of predominantly East Slavic Orthodox Christian people, who became known as members of democratic, self-governing, semi-military communities originating in the steppes in what is today Southern Russia. They played an important role in the historical development of Russia. Krasnodar (also known as Kuban) is the largest city and the administrative centre of Krasnodar Krai in Southern Russia. 2.10.1993 © 1993 Didier Ruef