Irkutsk is considered the capital of Eastern Siberia. It is a beautiful city with a unique historical heritage and inherent features of modern cities. Around Irkutsk there are many picturesque birch groves, beautiful meadows and unique natural objects. The territory of the city is divided into five administrative districts, each of which has its own characteristics. Kirovsky district is considered to be central; it is the historical center of the city. Here there is a variety of monuments of architecture, museums, theaters and libraries, as well as beautiful modern buildings.
The most ancient monument of Irkutsk is the church in the name of the Savior of the Holy Face. Now this religious institution is converted into a museum, where a rich exposition is presented, which is dedicated to the Irkutsk diocese. In the style of the Siberian Baroque, a cathedral was built in the name of the Epiphany of the Lord. Its construction lasted almost 28 years, and the first stone was laid as far back as 1718.
Another important architectural monument is the building of the Irkutsk Local History Museum, built in the Moorish style. The museum stores more than 350 thousand exhibits devoted to the history of Siberia. Moreover, 250,000 finds are rarities, similar to which one will not be able to see in any other museum in the world. The museum stores unique collections of clothing, skillful embroideries, ancient manuscripts, historical documents and reports of geological expeditions.
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