This 1978 postcard features a winter view of the historic Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore, originally built for the East Siberian Department of the Imperial Russian Geographical Society.
What is shown on the postcard
The postcard shows a two-story brick facade decorated in a Neo-Moorish style, partially covered in snow. An observatory tower with a dome and spire stands on the right. In the foreground, snow-covered fir trees, snowdrifts, a Soviet-era street lamp, and a bench are visible under a clear blue sky.
Historical note
Designed by architect Heinrich Rosen, the building was constructed in 1882–1883 to replace the previous wooden headquarters of the geographical society, which burned down in the great city fire of 1879. The project was funded by donations from local merchants and patrons, resulting in an exceptional example of Siberian eclecticism.
Present day
Today, the building at 2 Karl Marx Street continues to house the History Department of the Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore. Its unique architectural appearance is fully preserved, and the building is protected as a federal monument.
Location (map)
Address: 2 Karl Marx Street, Irkutsk, Irkutsk Oblast, Russia
Coordinates: 52.274850, 104.280160
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Google Maps, coordinates of the Irkutsk Regional Museum of Local Lore at 2 Karl Marx St.
Questions and answers
- What building is shown on the postcard? The postcard depicts the historic headquarters of the East Siberian Department of the Russian Geographical Society, which now houses the local history museum.
- Who designed this building? The Neo-Moorish style building was designed by architect Heinrich Rosen in the early 1880s.
- Where is this architectural landmark located? It is located in Irkutsk at 2 Karl Marx Street, near the Angara River embankment.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Irkutsk from 1978.
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