Irkutsk

Irkutsk is a historic city in southeastern Siberia, Russia, situated near Lake Baikal, the world's deepest freshwater lake. Known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, including wooden merchant houses and churches, it served as a major hub for trade and exploration in Siberia. The city has a rich cultural heritage with museums, theaters, and historical sites reflecting its role in Russian history. Surrounded by natural beauty, Irkutsk offers access to diverse landscapes like taiga forests and the lake itself. It functions as an administrative, educational, and transportation center in the region.