In this two-story building, the first chemical and physical laboratories of Kazan University were originally located. The first instructor was N. N. Zinin, who, having mastered a new teaching method for chemistry abroad, successfully implemented it at the university. This method included a combination of practical classes with lectures, which is familiar to modern students.

In the chemical laboratory, not only were well-known scientific studies in chemistry explored, but discoveries were also made that brought worldwide fame to Kazan University and benefited humanity. In 1842, N. N. Zinin synthesized aniline, which became the foundation for the development of the aniline dye industry. Two years later, a new element, ruthenium, was discovered here, named in honor of Russia. This is the only natural element discovered in our country.

The Museum of the Kazan Chemical School is different from other museums. It resembles a house-museum more: there are no exhibition showcases or signs prohibiting photography. The exhibits are stored in antique glass cabinets. The museum has a working atmosphere: on the desk in Butlerov's office lie stationery, and chemistry reference books from various years and even centuries stand in the cabinets, ready to impart their knowledge. It seems that at any moment, great scientists who worked in the laboratories of Kazan University will enter the office or library and continue their research.