Places to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk, one of the cultural capitals of Siberia, is full of natural and historical beauties that fascinate its visitors in every corner. When it comes to “Places to visit in Irkutsk”, many unique spots in the city that travelers will discover with interest are listed. Magnificent cathedrals, fascinating museums, peaceful natural landscapes and unique historical buildings are just a few of the details that make Irkutsk special. For travelers who want to explore Irkutsk, the city offers a rich variety of discovery opportunities that appeal to every taste.

Historical Places to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk is one of the cultural treasures of Siberia with its streets full of history and fascinating architecture. The city's deep history comes to life in structures decorated with elegant wood carvings, triumphal arches and unique mansions. For travelers who want to embark on a historical journey in Irkutsk, the city offers unique points of discovery. Seeing traces of architectural touches and important events in this region is like stepping into the rich history of Siberia.

European House

The House of the Merchant Shastin (1907) is a heritage site protected by the initiative of the French. It was saved from demolition with the support of the Mayor of Irkutsk. Today it is known as the “House of Europe” and is one of the symbols of Irkutsk.

It is among the well-preserved structures decorated with wooden carvings. Europe The house belongs to the Shastin family and was built in 1907. It is where official meetings, conferences and art exhibitions are held. It is a must-see in Irkutsk for travelers interested in historical buildings.

Chernigine House

Chernigina House is a house that Matryona Chernigina inherited from her stepfather, Mikhail Mikhailovich Chemezov. The building attracts the attention of both tourists and Irkutsk residents with its porch and window decorations. It is located on Goryaznova Street, number 16.

It is a structure worth seeing for travelers interested in woodworking.

Feinberg House

The Feinberg House is an important historical building with a rich cultural heritage. It attracts attention with its architectural beauty and symbolic value extending from the past to the present. The Feinberg House was meticulously constructed and decorated with fine details. This structure continues to keep our history alive by creating a concrete bridge between generations.

Moscow Triumphal Gate

Moskova The Triumphal Gate is a historic triumphal arch in Irkutsk. It was built in 1811 to commemorate the tenth anniversary of Tsar Alexander I's accession to the throne. The gate was located on the banks of the Angara River at the Irkutsk exit on the Moscow Road. That is why it was called the "Moscow Gate". It is an interesting stop for travelers who want to witness the past.

Mansion of Engineer II Nikitin

The mansion of engineer II Nikitin was built between 1902 and 1905 by Irkutsk architect AI Kuznetsov. The main building was largely occupied by the Grand Hotel, the most elegant hotel and restaurant of the time. It also housed a branch of the Russian-Chinese Bank until 1911 and a private boys' high school. It is an impressive stop for travelers interested in historic mansions and architecture.

Temple of Vhodoyerusalim

The Vhodoiyerusalim Temple is a stone structure located northwest of Totma. Built at the end of the 18th century, this two-story church is no longer active today. After restoration, the Sailors' Museum was opened on the first floor. It is a place worth seeing in Totma for travelers interested in historical buildings.

Jerusalem Cemetery

The Jerusalem Cemetery is a now-defunct cemetery on the Jerusalem Hill in Irkutsk. The area is now known as the Jerusalem Hill Historical Memorial Complex.

In the old cemetery are the graves of Decembrist Joseph Podzhio and writer Mikhail Zagosk. The grave monument of Mikhail Zagosk was created by the project of the architect Kazimir Mital. These graves are historical monuments of federal significance.

The historical buildings of Irkutsk not only keep the cultural heritage of the city alive, but also tell stories that go back to the past. Carrying the traces of many cultural movements from Europe to Asia, these buildings offer a timeless experience for history-loving travelers. These special places that bear witness to history are among the treasures of Irkutsk that must be visited and await everyone who wants to discover the soul of the city.

Natural Beauties to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk is a fascinating city not only with its historical buildings but also with its natural beauties. The rivers, lakes and forests in and around the city offer a unique paradise for nature lovers. Walking along the banks of the Angara River, witnessing the enchanting views of Lake Baikal or spending time in the serenity of the Kaiskaya Forest are the best ways to be alone with nature. These peaceful corners of nature in Irkutsk fascinate visitors to the city.

Angara River

The Lower Bank of the Angara River is one of the most popular promenades in Irkutsk. Stretching along the river for 900 meters, it consists of two levels: a road and a pedestrian area. The most important structure is the Epiphany Cathedral, built in the Siberian Baroque style from the 17th century. Also nearby is the historic Spasskaya Church. During the walk, be sure to take photos on the observation deck and enjoy the view.

Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal, located in the mountainous region of Siberia, north of the Mongolian border, is the world's oldest (25 million years) and deepest (1.700 m) freshwater lake. Known as the "Pearl of Siberia", it contains 20% of the world's surface freshwater. It has more water than the Great Lakes. It is home to hundreds of endemic plant and animal species. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake Baikal is known for its unique biodiversity. Its clear waters are surrounded by taiga and steep mountain ranges. The area is popular for hiking, camping and winter sports. The largest of its 27 islands, Olkhon Island, is noted for its natural beauty and shamanistic culture. The Circum-Baikal Railway on the shores of Baikal is a magnificent example of early 20th-century engineering.

Kaiskaya Forest is a forest area on Mount Kay in the Sverdlovsk region of Irkutsk. It is located between the Angara, Irkut and Kay rivers. It is home to taiga plants and animals that you can only see in the wild. This forest with its centuries-old pines is a remnant of the Siberian taiga. It has been preserved as a lush island within the city. One third of the population of Irkutsk lives in the Sverdlovsk region. Views from the Kay Grove and the Botanical Garden, Pervomaysky district. Here is one of the oldest historical monuments, the Glazkov Necropolis.

Kirov Park

Kirov Park is the largest and most popular forest park area in Izhevsk. It offers visitors the opportunity to spend time in nature all year round. The park provides a great environment for walking, cycling and running. In winter, an ice rink and a ski track are opened, which attracts winter sports enthusiasts. The park's natural rugged terrain allows for sports activities such as Nordic walking.

Irkutsk's natural beauty reveals the fascinating nature of Siberia. The clear waters of the Angara, the depths of Lake Baikal and the centuries-old trees of the Kaiskaya Forest offer visitors unforgettable memories. For nature lovers, Irkutsk is a destination full of hidden beauties and breathtaking landscapes worth discovering. These natural wonders enrich a trip to Irkutsk and provide an experience of being in touch with nature.

Religious Buildings to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk is a city in the heart of Siberia, rich in religious and cultural heritage. Home to a variety of religious buildings, the city offers a variety of places of worship, from Orthodox churches to Catholic cathedrals. From the Epiphany Cathedral to the Znamensky Monastery, Irkutsk is full of impressive structures for visitors looking to embark on a spiritual journey. These religious structures provide a fascinating experience not only for those wishing to worship, but also for travelers looking to explore the historical and architectural wonders.

Epiphany Cathedral

The Epiphany Cathedral is an Orthodox church located in the historic center of Irkutsk. It is located at the intersection of Sukhbaatar Street and the Angara River bank. It is the second oldest stone building in Irkutsk. It served as the main cathedral of the Irkutsk Diocese in the 18th-19th centuries. A must-see in Irkutsk for travelers interested in historical buildings.

Kazan Cathedral

Kazan Cathedral in Irkutsk is a historic place of worship that was opened on Easter in 1892. The church ceased to function in 1936 and was used as a warehouse and school. In the late 1980s, with the support of the public, restoration work began and the church was brought back to life. Today, Kazan Cathedral serves as a major cathedral in Irkutsk.

Holy Cross Church

The Holy Cross Church is an Orthodox church located in the historic center of Irkutsk. It is one of the oldest churches in Irkutsk and a unique example of the Siberian Baroque style. A must-see for travelers who love historical architecture.

Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of the Virgin Mary is a Catholic cathedral in Irkutsk. It is the seat of the Diocese of Saint Joseph and is headed by Bishop Kirill Klimovich. It is located at 110 Griboyedov Street. The cathedral hosts organ concerts of religious music. It is an ideal stop for travelers seeking spiritual and cultural experiences.

Chapel of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

The Kazan Icon Chapel was built in 2000 near the site of the former Kazan Cathedral. The chapel is an exact copy of one of the towers of the destroyed cathedral. The Kazan Cathedral was built in Irkutsk in 1875-1894 by the architect V. A. Kudelsky. One of the largest cathedrals of its time, it rose on the banks of the Angara River. In addition to the main dome, the cathedral had several gilded towers.

It was closed in 1930 and demolished in 1932. The regional administration building was built on the site of the cathedral between 1937 and 1959. It is an important stop for travelers who want to follow the traces of the past.

Znamensky Monastery

The Znamensky Monastery is a Russian Orthodox women's monastery of the Irkutsk Diocese. It is located in the Right Bank district of Irkutsk, at the mouth of the Angara River. It is one of the oldest monasteries in Siberia. It is an important place to visit in Irkutsk for travelers interested in spirituality and history.

The religious buildings of Irkutsk reflect the city's history and cultural richness. These places of worship are not only centers of faith, but also works of art that carry the traces of the past to the present. For visitors to the city, the religious places of Irkutsk are an unforgettable opportunity for spiritual discovery. These buildings await anyone who wants to experience the mystical atmosphere of Siberia.

Monuments and Statues to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk has historically been an important cultural and commercial center of Siberia, and monuments and statues reflecting the past can be found throughout the city. These monuments honor personalities and events that have left their mark on the city's deep history, while also revealing Irkutsk's cultural identity. The city has statues of many historical figures, from Alexander III to Admiral Kolchak to the founders of Irkutsk. These monuments offer visitors a deep insight into Siberian history.

Monument to Alexander III

The Monument to Admiral Alexander III was erected as a token of gratitude for his decision to build the Trans-Siberian Railway. It was first unveiled in Irkutsk on August 30, 1908. The sides of the monument are decorated with bronze portraits of figures who left their mark on Siberian history, such as Ermak, the governors-general of Eastern Siberia, Mikhail Speransky and Nikolay Muravyov-Amursky. It also contains the Tsar's decree on the construction of the railway and the coats of arms of Siberia and Irkutsk. The statue was removed from the pedestal in 1920. 43 years later, a monument to the "First Explorers of Siberia" was erected in its place. The Monument to Alexander III was re-erected in 2003 for the centennial of the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Monument to Admiral Alexander Kolchak

Admiral Aleksandr Kolchak was a prominent leader of the White Army during the Russian Civil War. He was even briefly declared the supreme ruler of Russia. Kolchak was captured by the Bolsheviks in Irkutsk and executed by firing squad in 1920. His body was thrown into the frozen Angara River. Rusya This monument to one of the controversial figures in history was opened in 130, on the 2004th anniversary of his birth.

Babr Statue

Babr, the symbol of the city of Irkutsk, Russia, is a mythological creature. In the 1600s, the word "babr" was used on the city's coat of arms to describe the Siberian tiger. Unfortunately, over time, tigers disappeared from the region and the word was forgotten.

Late 19th century Saint Petersburg When officials were tasked with redrawing the Irkutsk coat of arms, they did not know the meaning of the word “babr.” They mistakenly thought it was the word “bobr” (beaver) and designed a new creature.

Banned during the Soviet era, the symbol has been revived in the modern era. Today, you can find many depictions of Babr in Irkutsk, the most impressive of which is the huge statue in the city's historic 130th District.

Monument to the Founders of Irkutsk

The Monument to the Founders of Irkutsk was unveiled on September 14, 2011. This date coincides with the city's 350th anniversary celebration. The monument is located on the banks of the Angara River, near the Epiphany Cathedral. It represents the Cossacks, the pioneers of Siberia. The inscription on its pedestal reads "To the founders of Irkutsk, from its citizens." The 6-meter-high statue was cast in Zhukovsky, near Moscow. The monument was financed by the state, sponsors and the public.

Irkutsk's monuments and statues reflect the spirit of Siberia, as they bear witness to the city's rich history. Each statue and monument in the city tells visitors a unique story about its history. These impressive structures are among Irkutsk's must-see treasures for both history buffs and cultural explorers.

Art and Entertainment Centers to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk is a city that brings Siberia’s cultural richness to life through its arts and entertainment venues. The city’s theaters, musicals, and art venues offer a wide range of activities for locals and visitors. From the long-established Irkutsk Academic Drama Theater to the colorful performances of the Zagursky State Musical Theater, art lovers will experience unforgettable experiences here. For those who want to explore the various fields of art in Irkutsk, these venues are a must-see in the city.

Irkutsk Academic Drama Theatre

The Irkutsk Theatre gained professional status in 1850, when a traveling troupe of actors stayed in the city. The first performances were staged in the building of the City Council of Nobles. In 1851, under the patronage of the Governor Nikolay Muravyov-Amursky, a wooden building was built for the theatre and opened on September 22. The theatre was managed by the officer and dramaturge A. N. Pokhvisnev, whose plays were also staged on the Moscow and Petersburg stages. The organizer of the first troupe of actors was Joseph Markevich.

On November 2, 1967, by the decision of the Council of Ministers of the RFSRS, the theater was named after the famous Soviet director NP Okhlopkov. On August 31, 1999, the theater was given the title of "Academic". For art-loving travelers, the Irkutsk Theater is the center of the city's rich cultural heritage.

Zagursky State Musical Theatre

Irkutsk N. M. Zagursky State Musical Theatre is a cultural centre that presents musical performances of all kinds. It has a wide repertoire from opera to ballet, from musicals to rock opera. It stages classics such as “The Owner’s Daughter” and “Yunona and Avos” as well as modern productions. The theatre has been operating since 1990 and is famous for the festivals “Stars on the Lake” and “Jazz on the Lake”.

Irkutsk's art and entertainment venues are places that enrich and enliven the city's cultural fabric. These art venues inspire visitors with both classical and modern performances. For art lovers visiting Irkutsk, the city's theater and musical stages are unique stops that keep the interest and passion for art alive.

Circuses and Zoos to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk is also known for its circuses and zoos, which offer visitors fun and interactive experiences in addition to nature and culture. The Baikal Seal Aquarium, Irkutsk Zoo and Irkutsk State Circus are especially popular with families and children. These places in the city offer visitors unforgettable moments with cute seals, exotic animals and exciting circus shows. These fun stops in Irkutsk are among the places that families with children and travelers looking for adventure should explore.

Baikal Seal Aquarium

The “Baikal Seal Aquarium” in Irkutsk offers the opportunity to see seals up close. It is a chance to see seals in their natural habitat in Lake Baikal. These animals are shy of people and often stay at a distance.

The seal aquarium is a big attraction for both locals and tourists. This place is always full, visited by families. It is surprising to see seals that look big and bulky, and are trained. These animals, which can weigh up to 130 kilos, show great talents in shows.

The costumed shows of the seals fascinate the audience. Think of seals in cones and hats! The programs here are colorful and entertaining. You don't realize how time flies.

Irkutsk Zoo

Irkutsk Zoo is located in the Irkutsk University Botanical Garden. It is a meeting point for families and groups of friends. Irkutsk Zoo is an interactive zoo where children can pet rabbits and feed chickens or cows.

It aims to develop a love of animals in children. Information about animals is provided through educational activities. Children meet cute animals in fairy tales and have the chance to see them up close. These experiences provide a healing interaction with animals and last 40 minutes.

On thematic tours, guides tell about the behavior of animals throughout the year. The themed tour “Pages from the Red Book” is especially popular.

Irkutsk State Circus

Welcome to the Irkutsk State Circus! Here sea lions play ball, bears dance, and penguins put on shows. Acrobats, magicians, jugglers, and clowns add color to the stage. Shows are held daily throughout the year. Follow the posters to see the artists that fit your holiday schedule.

No matter what show you are in, you will find a colorful and fun atmosphere. Performances with elephants, seals and camels dazzle children. The shows usually last two to four hours. It is worth buying tickets in advance for the gala shows, as all the seats are usually full. The Irkutsk State Circus, with a capacity of 1674 people, attracts a full audience.

Irkutsk's circus and zoo are a great option for those looking to have a fun time in the city. Visitors who want to interact with animals, watch entertaining shows and have a fun day can create unforgettable memories for people of all ages. These places, which are a must-see for those visiting Irkutsk, appeal to everyone who wants to discover the city's fun side.

Museums to Visit in Irkutsk

Irkutsk is a city full of museums with its rich history and cultural past. The museums in the city inspire their visitors with a wide range of exhibits from science to art, from history to daily life. From the Experimentarium Science Museum to the Talsty Open Air Museum, which bears traces of historical heritage, it offers different experiences for visitors of all ages. Irkutsk's museums are a unique opportunity to discover for travelers who want to get to know the city better.

Experimentarium

The Science Museum “Experimentarium” in Irkutsk is the address for fun science experiences. Here you can touch 30 thousand volts of electric current; it is safe and exciting!

Sit on real nails, create a tornado or make liquids dance to music. It's like stepping into Alice's Looking Glass Land! Scientists make chemistry and physics fun by doing experiments.

The museum welcomes everyone from 3 to 103 years old. The Experimentarium also has its own planetarium, where you can take a virtual journey beyond the Solar System and learn about black holes and the life cycle of stars.

Irkutsk Art Museum

The Irkutsk Art Museum is the richest museum in the region, originating from the private collection of Vladimir Sukachev. Starting in 1870 with works by Russian painters, the collection was later enriched with works by Western European masters. Today, the museum is known as the largest art center in Siberia, with over 23 works of art. You will need to spend more than one day to see the collections, which are exhibited in different buildings.

Irkutsk Regional History Museum

Irkutsk Regional History Museum is a must-see for all visitors. The museum is located on the famous Karl Marx Street and Gagarin Boulevard on the Angara River. Nearby is the Alexander III Monument and the theater building. The museum is notable for its Moorish-style structure, which adds beauty to the city.

It was founded in 1782 under the leadership of the governor of that time, Klichka. The Irkutsk Regional Historical Museum is one of the oldest museums in Russia. Here visitors are immersed in the historical atmosphere of Siberia.

The frieze of the building has the names of 19 famous explorers engraved. The names of researchers such as Bering, Wrangel, Humboldt and Przhevalsky are seen. Admiral Kolchak is one of them as a polar explorer. It is an ideal stop for travelers who love to discover history!

Irkutsk Regional Historical and Memorial Museum

Irkutsk Regional Historical and Memorial Museum portrays the life of the Decembrists. The museum is interesting because it is spread over two mansions: Trubetskoy and Volkonsky estates. The interiors are in the style of the 19th century and display the belongings of the Decembrist families. It is possible to see the belongings of Muravyov, Yushnevsky, Ivashov, Pushchin and other Decembrists.

The atmosphere of the past here feels real. As you move from room to room, you will feel like you are meeting Princess Ekaterina Trubetskaya or Prince Sergey Volkonsky. Perhaps even Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin could be here. Events that bring the Decembrist period to life are held in the museum. Balls are held here, dances of the nobility are taught. The number of visitors increases during museum nights and Decembrist evenings. An attractive place for travelers who are on the trail of the past!

Irkutsk City History Museum

The Irkutsk City History Museum is named after AM Sibirakov and was opened in 1996. This young museum presents the entire history of the city and the stories of its inhabitants. The museum building is also history itself. It was built at the end of the 19th century by the philanthropist merchant Aleksandr Sibirakov as a free school for children in memory of his sister.

The museum exhibits more than 100 thousand works. You can see paintings, graphics, documents and photographs. Among the most memorable exhibitions are:

• “Multinational City Irkutsk”
• “Irkutsk Hydroelectric Power Plant”
• “History of City Management”
• “Irkutsk Youth Union”
• “Sibylline”
• “Irkutsk Diocese”
• “Soldiers of the Motherland”
• “Honorary Citizens of Irkutsk”
• “Irkutsk Merchants”
• “Everyday Life of the Irkutsk People”

It is an interesting discovery point for travelers interested in history.

Na Svalke Museum

Na Svalke Museum in Irkutsk offers a nostalgic atmosphere with old objects. Visitors are greeted by armored medieval knights on horseback, the setting is like a castle! Also, famous fantasy movie characters and military vehicles from World War II are exhibited. “Na Svalke” Museum is a unique and one-of-a-kind museum. It is located in the city landfill, close to Irkutsk. It is worth seeing for both locals and tourists from different cities.

Talsty Open Air Museum

Going to the Taltsy Open Air Museum is like traveling back to 17th century Irkutsk. Here you can enter an old Buryat tent and visit traditional Russian houses with samovars. See watermills and granaries and discover traces of the past. You can also join workshops where you can try blacksmithing, pottery or basket weaving. The Taltsy Museum is 47 kilometers from Irkutsk and is easily accessible by public transport.

Valentin Rasputin Museum

The Valentin Rasputin Museum in Irkutsk honors the memory of the writer. He is known for his famous works “Farewell to Matera” and “The French Lesson.” Rasputin did not want a street or monument dedicated to him. He only wanted a library.

After Rasputin's death, the scientific library of Irkutsk State University was named after him. On March 15, 2017, his 80th birthday, a museum was opened in Irkutsk. The wooden building that was converted into a museum dates back to the 19th century, but the writer did not live there.

This house is similar to the houses in the village of Atalanka in the Ust-Udinsky district, where the writer was born. It is an interesting stop for travelers who like to trace the past.

Irkutsk's museums are places that enrich the city's cultural fabric and offer visitors an unforgettable journey into the past. For science, art and history enthusiasts, these museums provide an interesting exploration into the depths of Siberia. Visiting Irkutsk's museums is one of the best ways to understand the city's soul and create unforgettable memories in this unique geography.

This exploration of places to visit in Irkutsk ends with unforgettable memories of the city's cultural fabric and the unique atmosphere of Siberia. With its nature, history and cultural heritage, Irkutsk is a destination worth exploring for visitors of all ages. Seeing these beauties of the city, feeling the spirit of Siberia and creating memories that leave a mark in Irkutsk will be an unforgettable experience for everyone.

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