A capstone of a trip to one of the Listvyanka settlements in Russia is often a canoe, rafting trip or hike around the shimmering waters of Baikal Lake. However, the area's historic wooden buildings are a true relic of the region, and should not be overlooked.
Many of the finest examples of Listvyanka wooden homes can be found on the shores of Baikal Lake, making them easily accessible. Many of these aged cottages have been photographed by explorers for many years, so individuals with a penchant for photography shouldn't be shy in trying to get the perfect shot. Some of the best spots to see wooden designs that are most typical of the region's style can be found up the streets of Gudina and Chapeva. Although these houses are known for their architectural integrity, many of these wooden designs are slowly fading away, so adventurers who are interested in wooden houses will likely want to plan their visit sooner rather than later.
To explore wooden home design and architecture of the region (and compare Listvyanka's unique dwelling with its more extended neighbors) travelers can visit Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture and Ethnography. Located between Listvyanka and Irkutsk, the museum is home to samples of a wide variety of wooden houses from across Siberia. From iconic wooden "onion domes" to basic wooden slat homes, visitors will be delighted by the variety of colors, shapes and forms wood can take on.
While here, adventurers should be sure to check out the museum's most famous and prized possessions, including the Savior's gate from the Tower of the Ostrog, or Fort of Ilimsk. The Kazan Chapel at Taltsy, which was built in 1679, is still actively used according to the museum's website, and is another prized piece in Taltsy's collection.
Exploring the architecture of Listvyanka
Posted on Wednesday, July 18th, 2012
