This 1978 Soviet postcard features the White House in Irkutsk, a prominent monument of Russian Classicism, which housed the scientific library of Irkutsk State University during the Soviet era.
What is shown on the postcard
The image shows the main facade of the three-story palace-style building designed in the Neoclassical style. A monumental six-column portico of the Corinthian order is visible, resting on the ground-floor arcade and topped with a triangular pediment. Snow-covered trees and shrubs stand in the foreground, partially obscuring the view. The ground and vegetation are covered with a thick layer of winter snow.
Historical note
The building was erected in the early 19th century (completed by 1804) for the wealthy Sibiryakov merchant family. The Empire-style design is frequently attributed to the workshop of the architect Giacomo Quarenghi. From 1837 to 1917, it served as the residence of the Governors-General of Eastern Siberia. In October 1917, it became a stronghold for the Red Guards. In 1918, the building was transferred to Irkutsk State University to house its scientific library.
Present day
Today, the White House retains its historical appearance and holds the status of a federal monument of cultural heritage. It remains under the ownership of Irkutsk State University. The exterior and interior have undergone restorations to preserve the original architectural look of this Classicist landmark.
Location (map)
Address: 36 Gagarin Boulevard, Irkutsk, Russia
Coordinates: 52.274889, 104.275889
(Google Maps)
Coordinate source: Coordinates of the White House building (ISU Scientific Library) at 36 Gagarin Boulevard.
Questions and answers
- What was housed in the White House in 1978? In 1978, the building housed the scientific library of Irkutsk State University.
- Who was the original owner of the building? The mansion was built in the early 19th century as a private residence for the merchant Sibiryakov family.
- What is the architectural style of the building? The building is constructed in the Classicist (Empire) style, featuring a prominent six-column Corinthian portico.
See also
The «Old Postcards» archive includes other views of Irkutsk from 1978.
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