Over the 358 years of its existence, a small garrison on the banks of the Angara has turned into a modern city with numerous historical and cultural monuments. The sights of Irkutsk attract tourists all year round and have become pride for local residents. A few tens of kilometers from this Siberian city is the unique Lake Baikal with picturesque landscapes and unforgettable places for active recreation.
Count Speransky Square (Kirov Square)
Speransky (Kirov) Square, flowers from Gorzelenkhoz have already been planted in the flowerbeds, which ennobles the entire city, in the background is the House of the Governor of the Irkutsk Region.
This is the central square of the city with a gorgeous fountain, a landscaped park and a small chapel near the governor’s house . It first appeared more than 300 years ago, and has survived several reconstructions, destruction by fire and Soviet rule. Today this beautiful place in Irkutsk is intended for relaxation and walking, attracting local residents and visiting guests of the city.
In the summer, you can sit here on the benches and inhale the aroma of the plants planted by Gorzelenkhoz, and take excellent photographs of the historical fountain. In winter, the square hosts New Year's performances and the opening of the main city Christmas tree with fireworks, then on New Year's Eve the townspeople gather for a show program presented by the city administration.
On a note! We recommend a walk around the city, in summer or winter, starting from here; there are beautiful and interesting places in all directions.
- address: Irkutsk, st. Working;
- Opening hours: 24 hours a day.
Lower Angara embankment
View from the lower embankment towards the monument to Yakov Pokhabov, the Cathedral of the Epiphany, and the Moscow Gate.
The old embankment of Irkutsk is located in the northern part of the historical center. It needed repairs for a long time, but was reconstructed in 2010-2011. The length of the embankment is 900 m, 2 tiers - for cars and pedestrians. Nearby are the Cathedral of the Epiphany and the Spassky Church , there is an observation deck, an alley of veterans , and a picturesque bridge across the road with castles for lovers.
We recommend visiting here in the evening. You can take a walk from the bridge all the way to the Moscow Gate, where there is a children's playground nearby.
Moscow Triumphal Gate
Moscow Gate
Not far from the Lower Embankment there is another interesting place in Irkutsk - the Moscow Triumphal Gate, restored in 2011 in the Renaissance, Empire style. The name of the attraction is due to its strategic location: at the exit from Irkutsk in the direction of the capital. Such gates are available in St. Petersburg.
The city administration has been planning the process of restoration of the 1811 building for a very long time due to the fact that many diagrams and photographs were lost. Now this is a favorite place for wedding photo shoots.
- address: Irkutsk, st. Lower Embankment;
- work schedule: 24 hours a day.
Irkutskaya Sloboda (130th quarter)
130 block (view from the bridge that leads to the Musical Theater)
This block began to be built up in the 18th century. Until 2008, it looked like a small village of numerous wooden houses, where mostly people lived without a fixed place of residence, and fires occurred very often. Over time, housing became unsafe, so in 2008, restoration of dilapidated houses began, which became architectural monuments. At that time, it was the largest construction project in the city with huge financial investments.
The quarter begins with the “ Beaver ” sculpture and stretches for several hundred meters to the Fashion Quarter shopping center (there is a cinema on the top floor), where you can do weekend shopping.
“The 130th block is slightly distant from the historical center of Irkutsk. Today it is a crowded place with numerous cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops and other entertainment for the whole family.” All excursions around the city of Irkutsk must pass through the quarter.
- address: Irkutsk, st. July 3, 13/1;
- Working hours: individual for each establishment.
Taltsy Museum
Taltsy Museum
47 km from Irkutsk, on the right bank of the Angara, there is a unique architectural and ethnographic complex that covers an area of several hectares and a number of historical monuments of the 17th-20th centuries. The museum complex is divided into four zones with unique exhibitions - Evenki, Buryat, Russian, Tofalar. There is a lot of interesting things here for true connoisseurs of the past of the Baikal region, local residents and tourists.
Every year, traditional holidays are organized on the territory of the open-air museum - Maslenitsa, Ivan Kupala, Christmas and others. Interesting for adults and children.
- how to get there: by car on your own along the Baikal Highway up to 47 km, then turn right, before the turn you will see a sign with the name of the museum. By bus from the bus station you can take a regular route to Listvyanka; private minibuses also run approximately every half hour. In the summer you can sail on a rocket, departure from the Raketa pier in the microdistrict. Sunny, information and schedule can be found on the VSRP website.
- address: Irkutsk district, Taltsy village;
- Opening hours: daily, 10.00-17.00;
- ticket price: 100-400 rubles, additional payment for parking;
- official website: talci-irkutsk.ru.
Kazan Church
Continuing to explore the city of Irkutsk and its attractions, it is recommended to study the architectural monuments of Christianity. Among the significant places is the Kazan Church made of red brick with a blue roof and golden crosses. The temple was built at the end of the 19th century and is protected by the state. It regularly holds services, a Sunday school is organized, and houses the sacred icon of the Kazan Mother of God.
- address: Irkutsk, st. Barricade, 34/1;
- work schedule: 24 hours a day.
Church of the Exaltation of the Cross
Church of the Exaltation of the Cross
This is the oldest church in the city, built in the Baroque style in 1760. The Church of the Exaltation of the Cross contains a unique exhibition of holy images that were preserved during Soviet times. This is a true masterpiece of Siberian architecture, combining Russian, Buddhist and Ukrainian motifs. According to historical reports, it was here that Admiral Kolchak was shot in 1920.
- address: Irkutsk, st. Sedova, 1.
Znamensky Monastery
Znamensky Monastery on the Maratovsky Ring
This is the oldest convent in Siberia, founded back in 1689. It is here that the monument to the aforementioned Admiral Kolchak was erected, and public and church figures are buried. For example, you can see the graves of the writer V. G. Rasputin, the merchant G. I. Shelikhov and Countess Trubetskoy. On the territory of the monastery there is a flower garden and comfortable benches for a comfortable rest.
- address: Irkutsk, st. Angarskaya, 14;
- work schedule: 24 hours a day.
Roman Catholic Church
Church at night
This architectural structure was erected in 1820 for Poles exiled to Siberia. Therefore, the second name of the temple is the Polish Church. The building is made of brick, equipped with comfortable benches for worshipers, an altar to the Dormition of the Mother of God, an organ and a harmonium for church hymns. After the October Revolution, the church was partially destroyed, but it was restored in 1978. Included in the list of cultural heritage of Poland.
The building is significantly different in appearance from the modern city, so if you walk through Kirov Square, be sure not to miss this architectural object, which is one of the best attractions of Irkutsk. By the way, there is a schedule at the main entrance; be sure to attend any performances.
- address: Irkutsk, st. Sukhbaatar, 1.
Kharlampievsky St. Michael the Archangel Church
Kharlampievsky Michael the Archangel Church
It was in this Orthodox church in the historical center of Irkutsk that the wedding of Admiral Kolchak took place in 1904. The temple itself, made of wooden beams in 1734 and bricks in 1977, was visited by traders, long-distance sailors, and participants in sea expeditions before the revolution. It’s not for nothing that you can see anchors along the perimeter near the benches. Inside, the temple looks more like a museum.
- address: Irkutsk, st. 5th Army, 59;
- Opening hours: 8.00-19.00, daily;
- official website: harlamp.ru.
Irkutsk Museum of Decembrists
Museum of the Decembrists with an internal territory and two rooms
This is an architectural complex of two wooden structures - the former estates of the Trubetskoy and Volkonsky families, exiled to Siberia. The museum is located in the historical center of the city, and its exhibition is about the life and everyday life of the princely families. Here you can see Maria Volkonskaya’s piano and casket, and Ekaterina Trubetskoy’s embroidered bead paintings.
On the territory of the museum, literary evenings are often organized, thematic exhibitions and excursions are held, and educational programs are organized. Newlyweds often come for a photo shoot. And in the summer we especially recommend visiting the evening cinema in the open air, it is very atmospheric for lovers of romance.
- address: st. Dekabristov, 64 (Trubetskoy house-museum), lane. Volkonsky, 10 (Volkonsky house-museum);
- working hours: daily, 10.00-18.00;
- ticket price: 200 rubles, audio guide;
- official website: imd38.ru.
Peak of love
View of the city from the peak in the evening.
The best observation deck in the city, where everyone should visit at sunset. The place is not as popular among tourists as it is among newlyweds. In addition, one of the best restaurants in Irkutsk is located nearby; we will talk about it in more detail at the end of the material.
- address: microdistrict Ershovsky 26a.
Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore
Old photo of the museum
Every year the museum complex, founded in 1782, is visited by about 300 thousand guests. Today it is a unique architectural structure, which houses a library, a children's center, several halls with an exhibition of antique objects of Russian and Buryat life.
Near the museum there is a monument to Alexander 3 and the upper embankment.
- address: Irkutsk, st. Karl Marx, 13;
- Opening hours: daily, 10.00-18.00;
- ticket price: from 200 rubles;
- official website: museum-irkutsk.com.
Monument to Alexander III
Monument to Alexander III
In 1902, the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway, a very important facility of that time, was completed. In honor of gratitude, a monument to the Tsar was erected according to the design of Robert Bach, which stood until 1963. a monument to the Pioneers of Siberia was erected at this place ; it was also called a spire. In 2003, local leaders finally achieved the return of Alexander III to the pedestal, which still stands today.
Nearby there is a fascinating Angara embankment, which runs all the way to the Old Angara Bridge , so you can safely set aside an evening and take a walk to interesting places.
Don’t forget to go to the island “Horse” , today a place for recreation for citizens is being actively developed here.
Island "Horse"
View of the Konny Island from the Yunost Island.
One of the interesting places in Irkutsk and the Angara River is one of the favorite vacation spots of all Irkutsk residents, especially on weekends and holidays. In summer, you can relax here in the forest or on the coast; children can ride electric cars or play on the playground. In winter, a significant area of the island is flooded for an ice skating rink and lighting equipment is installed. We especially recommend visiting this place during the New Year holidays.
And recently another popular and fascinating structure appeared on the island - the Ferris Wheel.
Ferris wheel
Ferris Wheel
All the townspeople have been waiting for this object for many years! The administration could not choose a location for installation, there were problems with technical characteristics, then there were disagreements in the budget with financial investments and the search for investors. And finally, the opening of the Ferris Wheel took place! Almost two years have passed, and the flow of applicants still does not dry up.
Is it worth the ride? Necessarily. Travel time for one lap is 13 minutes. The cost of the trip is from 150 to 250 rubles, depending on the daily routine. The attraction is open from 12 am to 10 pm. Veterans and disabled people are admitted without queues and free of charge.
Museum-Estate of V.P. Sukacheva
Museum-Estate of V.P.
Sukacheva It is difficult to get around all the sights of Irkutsk and interesting places in 1 day, so it is important to plan a route correctly. It is advisable not to miss the wooden manor of true masters, restored in 2000. The highlight of the architectural style is rich carvings and chiseled facades. Inside there is an exhibition of household items and collections of public figure V.P. Sukachev.
- address: Irkutsk, st. December Events, 112b, ost. 1st Soviet;
- work schedule: Tue.-Sun. – 10.00-18.00;
- ticket price: 50-150 rubles;
- official website: sukachoff.ru.
Icebreaker Museum "Angara"
Icebreaker Museum "Angara" in the microdistrict.
Solnechny This museum complex is organized in the decommissioned icebreaker "Angara" on the Irkutsk reservoir. Excursions are held daily for local residents and city guests, which allow you to visit the engine room, cabins and galley, and hear the history of the icebreaker. This is a good option for tourists with children to visit in Irkutsk.
Nearby there is a small embankment with cafes and restaurants, places to relax near the shore.
- address: Irkutsk, prosp. Marshala Zhukova, 36A/1;
- Opening hours: Tue.-Sun. – 10.00-18.00;
- ticket price: 50-150 rubles;
- official website: angara.gavailer.ru.
Gallery of V. Bronstein
One of the cultural institutions of the city, where fascinating exhibitions are held.
This place is imbued with an atmosphere of art. Exhibitions of contemporary artists and sculptors of the region are held here with the opportunity to broaden your horizons. In addition to the gallery, this three-story building has cafes, conference rooms, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
- address: Irkutsk, st. October Revolution, 3;
- Opening hours: daily, 11.00-20.00;
- ticket price: from 100 rubles;
- official website: vbgallery.ru.
Monument to Leonid Gaidai
Scene from the film
If the question arises, what else is interesting to see in Irkutsk, then we advise you to visit Proletarskaya Street 13. It is here that 2 bronze monuments to Gaidai are installed. One sculpture is of himself in the creative process, the second (opposite) is an episode from “Prisoner of the Caucasus” with the participation of the legendary trinity. The city Circus is also located here , where various Russian show programs come.
Babr
Beginning of the 130th Quarter
This symbol of Irkutsk begins the 130th quarter. The term “babr” itself, translated from the Turkic language, means “jaguar, panther, tiger.” This is what locals call Amur tigers, which are found in the forests of Siberia.
“The bronze sculpture of Babr on his hind legs and with a victim in his teeth appeared in 2012, reaches a height of 3.5 meters, weighs several tons.” Be sure to rub his claws.
Monument to Yakov Pokhabov
Monument to Yakov Pokhabov, in the background is the main office of Sberbank.
This sculpture of the founder of Irkutsk was installed in 2011 on Nizhnyaya Embankment in honor of the 350th anniversary of the city. Yakov, dressed in a hiking suit, with a weapon on his shoulder, looks menacingly into the distance. Perhaps he is assessing the territory for establishing a new city.
Monument Tourist
Monument to the Tourist, on the right there is a green stripe, this is a tourist trail that runs through all the main attractions of Irkutsk in the center.
This Irkutsk landmark is located at the intersection of Karl Marx and Litvinov streets, next to numerous cafes, souvenir shops, and a shopping area. The number of people wishing to take a photo with the funny character is not decreasing, although the tourist has been standing there for several years.
Monument to St. Peter and Fevronia
Monument to St.
Peter and Fevronia Among the options for what a tourist can see is this magical monument. According to legend, the local healer Fevronia cured and by cunning married Prince Muromsky. The monument is located near the Church of the Savior Not Made by Hands. This is a favorite place for lovers, and the hare at the feet of the sculptures is polished to shine from the wishes made by passers-by.
“Traditionally, it’s customary to pat him on the head and ask for his secret.”
These are just a few of the sights of Irkutsk with photos, names and descriptions that are definitely worth seeing and capturing in photographs. One day in the city is definitely not enough to explore the history and culture of these places.
What to see in Irkutsk in one day?
We recommend starting a walk around the city from the Trud Stadium or from Kirov Square (In-Yaz stop).
- From the Trud stadium, we recommend that you first go to the 130th Quarter , then cross the road and go towards the Upper Embankment . Along the bank of the Angara along the current you can visit Konny Island , ride the Ferris Wheel , then photograph the monument to Alexander III . Walking a little further along the river you can reach the pier, from where the river buses . You can complete the walk by reaching the Old Angarsky Bridge .
- From Kirov Square we move towards the House of the Governor , going around it on the right side you will see an amazing Church with an organ hall. Then you can visit the Eternal Flame and walk along the pedestrian bridge leading to the Lower Embankment . Here we recommend visiting the monument to Yakov Pokhabov and heading towards the Moscow Gate .
In both cases, we recommend taking public transport and getting to Jacobi Beach at the hydroelectric dam; after reconstruction, comfortable conditions have been created here for citizens to relax in any season.
Where to eat deliciously?
By tradition, we have selected the best places in the city where you can end the evening in a cozy atmosphere with a glass of wine. The city is full of restaurants and cafes where you can taste delicious and inexpensive local cuisine from Lake Baikal. Although omul cannot be caught, dishes with this fish can be found in absolutely any establishment.
trying first : sagudai, splitting, Buryat buuz, various soups, local lard.
- Rassolnik restaurant is still one of the best and inexpensive places in the 130th block where you can have lunch and dinner. The cuisine is homemade, we recommend trying the soups here. Tel for reservation.
- Nomad on the street Gorky 19. Designed for lovers of Asian cuisine, it serves rich beef soups and other meat dishes. The average bill is approximately 2 thousand rubles. Tel: +7 395 220-04-59.
- Old Cafe on the street Marata 22. One of the old establishments with a cozy and calm atmosphere. Suitable for business meetings and middle-aged tourists. The average check is high, but the service and cuisine are at the proper level. Tel: +7 395 234-06-08.
- Kyoto on Karl Marx 13. We definitely recommend this establishment during the summer season; it has one of the best summer verandas with its own inner world. The average check is high, but is fully compensated by the calm atmosphere. Tel: +7 395 255-05-05.
- Panoramic restaurant Taste of heaven at the “Peak of Love” in the microdistrict. Ershovsky 26a. You can spend the evening in the rays of the passing day with a view of the city only in this place. Tel: +7 3952 68-26-66.
Kyoto restaurant courtyard
Beautiful places in Astrakhan that are worth visiting
The cultural life of Irkutsk will impress even the most dedicated art lovers. Numerous museums and exhibitions cover different periods of the city’s formation and tell about memorable historical events. There is also a place for acting lovers to go. Musical and drama theaters operate successfully in Irkutsk.
Art Museum named after. V. P. Sukacheva
The museum's collection is housed in three mansions and a house that belonged to the philanthropist and collector V.P. Sukachev. The 23,000-piece exhibition brings together works by Eastern, Siberian, and Western European artists of the 15th-20th centuries.
Address: Lenin street, 5.
Opening hours: Tue.-Sun. 10:00-18:00.
How to get there: trolleybuses 3, 5, 8 run through the “Art Museum” stop
Get directions
Irkutsk Museum of Decembrists
The museum's exhibition is located in mansions that belonged to princes Volkonsky and Trubetskoy, exiled to Siberia after the 1825 uprising. The collection contains personal belongings, letters, and documents of the Decembrists. The Volkonsky mansion regularly hosts poetry evenings, theatrical performances, and children's competitions.
Address: Dzerzhinsky street, 64, Volkonsky, 10.
Opening hours: daily 10:00-17:30, closed on Tuesday in summer, Wednesday in winter.
How to get there: buses 35, 402, 435, minibuses 4K, 64, 380 pass through the “Avtovokzal” stop.
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Victor Bronstein Gallery
Interesting places in Irkutsk are complemented by the V. Bronstein Gallery of Contemporary Art. The private collection includes over 1.5 thousand paintings, sculptures and drawings. Since its foundation, the museum has been participating in regional and foreign exhibitions.
Address: October Revolution Street, 3.
Opening hours: daily 11:00-20:00.
How to get there: buses 35, 402, 435, minibuses 4K, 64, 380 pass through the “Avtovokzal” stop.
Get directions
Drama Theater named after. N. P. Okhlopkova
The Drama Theater is housed in a building built in 1897, representing an example of the Russian architectural style. Over the years of its existence, the theater has repeatedly become a laureate of Russian and foreign competitions. Today, classical and modern productions are demonstrated on its stage, creative evenings and festivals are organized.
Address: Karl Marx street, 14.
Opening hours: daily 12:00-18:30.
How to get there: to the Philharmonic stop there are minibuses 20, 64, 126, 425, buses 6, 30, 42, 66, 427, 480.
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Ethnographic complex "Taltsy"
Among the main attractions of Irkutsk is the Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture. The architectural complex recreates the Russian, Buryat, Tofalar, Evenki zones of the 17th-18th centuries. Guests are invited to explore ancient buildings, take part in master classes, and get acquainted with the culture, traditions, and customs of the indigenous people.
Address: Taltsy village.
Opening hours: daily 10:00-18:00.
How to get there: minibuses 524, 526, 650 go to the stop of the same name.
Get directions
Musical Theater named after. N. M. Zagursky
The Irkutsk Musical Theater is a place where people interested in musical productions should go. Its repertoire includes performances of various musical genres and styles. The theater annually hosts touring troupes from neighboring regions and neighboring countries.
Address: Sedova street, 29.
Opening hours: daily 10:00-20:00.
How to get there: bus 11, trolleybuses 3, 5, 8 run through the Musical Theater stop.
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Botanical Garden
The garden at Irkutsk State University was founded in 1940. Its territory is divided into several natural zones, including a Japanese garden and a pharmacy town. The botanical garden conducts excursion and research activities aimed at preserving rare plant species.
Address: Koltsova street, 93.
Opening hours: Tue.-Sun. 10:00-18:00.
How to get there: by train to Melnikovo station.
Get directions
How to plan a trip cheaper?
With the help of practical tips, you can arrange a vacation at sea or a trip to the sights much more profitable:
- ROOMGURU will help you stay in any city on a budget . The search engine compares prices across all housing databases and displays the result. It is very convenient to use the HOUSING SEARCH via a smartphone. It is especially helpful upon arrival, when you need to immediately book an apartment or hotel.
- Before each trip, you must purchase an insurance policy; we recommend TRIPINSURANCE , the service works only with the best insurance companies that you can trust.
- Where to buy cheap air tickets? We definitely use the AVIASALES , it looks for the most profitable options from all airlines.
A.P. Chekhov about Irkutsk
Anton Pavlovich Chekhov visited Irkutsk in 1890 and his enthusiastic reviews of the city, which biographers found in his personal correspondence, were a reason for special pride among the cultural community of our city.
From a letter to his mother and sisters dated June 6, 1890: “Irkutsk is an excellent city. Quite intelligent. Theatre, museum, city garden with music, good hotels. There are no ugly fences, ridiculous signs and vacant lots with signs saying you can't stop. There is a tavern "Taganrog". Sugar 24 kopecks, pine nuts 6 kopecks. per pound<…> In Irkutsk, spring cabs. It is better than Yekaterinburg and Tomsk. Totally Europe"
From a letter to his brother Alexander Pavlovich Chekhov dated June 5, 1890: “Of all the Siberian cities, Irkutsk is the best. Tomsk is not worth a penny, and all the district ones are no better than the Krepka in which you had the imprudence to be born.”
Kazan Temple
Address: st. Barrikad, 34 Telephone: Opening hours: 08:00-19:00, daily
Construction of the Temple began in 1885, and was completed by Easter in 1892 with the consecration of 3 chapels. Before its construction, food warehouses were located on this site, and local residents were at first against their demolition. But after a local merchant allocated money to move the buildings, the dispute was resolved. Not only the population of Irkutsk, but also residents of other Siberian cities helped in raising funds.
After the revolution, the cathedral received parishioners until 1936. Then, a warehouse was set up there, and later a souvenir factory. Restoration began in the late 80s, its original appearance was completely restored.
In the architecture of the Kazan Temple, traditional motifs are combined with new techniques: additional turrets decorated with tents. The contrasting facade with various decorative elements (panels, arched kokoshniks, paired columns) looks solemn and festive. Currently it is a cultural heritage site and is protected by the state.
4. Nerpinary
If you come to Irkutsk with children, do not deny yourself the pleasure of visiting such an attraction as the Irkutsk seal nursery and see an unforgettable show with the participation of Baikal seals. The Baikal seal is a rare freshwater seal species that lives only in Lake Baikal. In the wild, seals are quite shy and cautious, but in the nerpinarium during a performance they work real miracles. These funny pinnipeds frolic merrily in the water, dance, sing, draw and even count, delighting both children and adults. As a souvenir of your visit to the nerpinarium, you can purchase photographs of your favorite artists, as well as original drawings made by waterfowl “artists.”
Znamensky Monastery
The last interesting attraction of Irkutsk on our list is the Znamensky Monastery, which is one of the oldest monasteries in Siberia: its construction began in the 17th century. The architectural ensemble of the monastery with white walls, green roofs and blue domes is made in the traditions of ancient Russian architecture. The 19th century was a time of real prosperity for the monastery: before the revolution, on its territory there were two churches, monastic cells, a hospital, a women's religious school, a parochial school and a shelter for the poor. Many famous people are buried in the necropolis of the Znamensky Monastery, including the outstanding traveler and explorer Grigory Shelikhov, the wife of the Decembrist Princess Ekaterina Trubetskaya, and the famous Soviet writer Valentin Rasputin. Within the walls of the monastery is kept its main shrine - the relics of the heavenly patron of Siberia, Innocent of Irkutsk.
These are the sights you can visit in Irkutsk. Thank you for your attention!
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House of the Shastin merchants
Address: st. Friedrich Engels, 21 Phone: hotel, +7 (3952) 29-22-30 - director Website: https://www.domevropy.ru/
The estate also bears the names “Lace House” and “House of Europe”. Built at the end of the century before last in the Russian Baroque style, it acquired its current appearance in 1907, when it came into the use of A.I. Shastin. It was under his leadership that most of the carved decorations of the house were installed.
At the end of the 20th century, restoration began, work was carried out on the basis of materials from the archives: photographs and drawings. In addition to the building itself, a wooden fence with a gate was restored.
The estate currently houses:
- "House of Urban Life"
- Office of the Culture Department staff
- International Relations Department
- Two tea museums
- Hotel decorated in Russian style
- Cafe
- Sauna
Church of the Exaltation of the Cross
Address: st. Sedova, 1 Telephone: Opening hours: Mon-Sat - 09:00-19:00, Sun - 07:00-19:00
The first church on Krestovaya Hill was built in 1719. But in the middle of the century it was demolished and the construction of a stone temple began. The work was completed by the end of the 1750s. The church was built in a unique style - Siberian Baroque.
The temple is famous not only for its appearance. It contains more than 600 icons, and 400 of them have artistic value.
With the advent of Soviet power, it was decided to demolish the church, but in 1936 an anti-religious museum was organized here. However, after 7 years, services were restored thanks to the efforts of the religious community.
Moscow triumphal gates
Address: st. Nizhnyaya Embankment, 8/1
A relatively new attraction, but with a long history. The first Moscow Gate was built in 1811 and served several functions: exit to the western part of the state passed through it, it served as an outpost and ceremonial events were held there, and later there was an archive here. In addition, since the building is located on the banks of the Angara River, it was a rescue station.
The Moscow Gate stood for more than a hundred years. And in 1928, due to their deteriorating technical condition, the city administration decided to dismantle them. But in 2009, for the 350th anniversary of the city (2011), it was decided to rebuild them.
The appearance of the arch is completely consistent with the original one: four tiers 19 meters high, more than 16 meters long and 7 meters wide. The facade of the memorial, made in the Empire style, is decorated with stucco, restored from old photographs and descriptions of contemporaries.
Kirov Square
Kirov Square, located in the center of Irkutsk, is the main square of the city. Here are the main government institutions and architectural attractions of Irkutsk, including the Spasskaya Church, the Epiphany Cathedral and the Polish Church. In addition, Kirov Square has a wonderful walking area: an abundance of greenery, flowers and a large round fountain invite you to relax in the very center of the city. On holidays, entertainment events are held on the square, and in winter, the main city New Year tree is decorated here and the skating rink is filled.
Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore
Having visited Irkutsk, it will be interesting to visit the Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore, founded in the second half of the 18th century. It is one of the oldest museums in Russia. Over several centuries, his collection has grown so much that today it is housed in several buildings. In addition to traditional departments dedicated to the history and nature of the Baikal region, the Irkutsk Museum of Local Lore includes the “Window to Asia” department, the Children’s Museum and the famous icebreaker “Angara”. The exhibitions of the “Window to Asia” department are dedicated to the development of Siberia and the contribution of Russian researchers to the study of North-East Asia. The Children's Museum has an interesting collection of toys from the times of ancient Baikal settlements to well-known Soviet and modern toys. And finally, the unique museum ship “Angara” introduces its visitors to the history of the legendary icebreaker, built before the revolution.
Museum-estate of Vladimir Sukachev
The estate museum of the Irkutsk mayor Vladimir Platonovich Sukachev rightfully enjoys a reputation as one of the most visited museums in Irkutsk. Vladimir Sukachev is known in Siberia as an outstanding public and political figure of the 19th century, a generous benefactor and founder of the Irkutsk Art Museum. In his house, designed in the best noble traditions, Vladimir Platonovich received guests, held balls, worked in his office and housed his rich collection of paintings in the gallery. The owner has built a beautiful park around the house, where even today it is so pleasant to walk in the shade of hundred-year-old larches. Today, the estate of Vladimir Sukachev is not just a museum, but also a venue for exciting events: balls, art exhibitions, performances and children's parties are often held here. On weekends, the museum hosts entertaining master classes in painting, decoupage and other forms of art.
Cathedral of the Epiphany
Address: st. Sukhbaatar, 1a Telephone: Opening hours: 08:00-19:00, daily
The first construction of the temple was completed in 1693, but in 1716, as a result of a fire, the wooden structure was completely destroyed. In 1718, its re-erection began in the same place, this time in brick, which lasted 13 years. But half a century later, the cathedral was partially damaged during an earthquake. Despite the fact that over the many years of history the temple suffered from natural disasters several more times, services there did not stop.
There is a legend that at the end of the 19th century, during a severe city fire, the fire stopped right at the gates of the cathedral and did not advance further.
After the October Revolution, worship services stopped in 1934, and bakery workshops were organized on the territory of the temple. In the 60s they planned to demolish it, but later they decided to restore it. By the end of the 80s, the cathedral was restored and a few years later returned to the Russian Orthodox Church.
