This area has gold, diamonds, top quality marbles, and about every natural resource possible. This city has been the center of governance for the area for centuries. In fact......
This building was the capital of California. And Alaska. Besides Siberia, when Russia owned them all. They tried for Hawaii, too, but the US wanted it and had the stronger army and will to war.
The city was founded, as is typical here, with a fort on the bend of a river in the mid 1600’s.
Only the original church is still surviving. It did not get destroyed by the communists.
Bells are rung by hand here.
Photos are not allowed, of course.... Though a wedding was going on in one with a photographer snapping all over the place.
Today is “The Shining of Russia” day, something about celebrating the Orthodox Church.
This church did get destroyed. It was huge and beautiful, but only 40 years old, so had no historical value.
Now this stands in its place, a communist government building, with the war memorials and school children getting the honor of guard duty after special training.
This old church, with oriental influences in its architecture, is called Siberian Baroque style. It was gutted in Revolutionary Times, then restored recently. It is notable for honoring the now-sainted murdered czar’s family.
The internet is getting difficult again. So here are few more interesting sights. The city is noted for its historic center consisting of log construction.
I will maybe try to do a post later on the “Decembrists.”
Tomorrow is the train again, to Mongolia, then China. I have no idea about internet availability. So until next time....
Blessed Sunday.
The log building is cool. Safe travels!
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