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5 fascinating reasons to visit the Urals republic of Udmurtia

The Republic of Udmurtia, 750 miles northeast of Moscow, offers the authentic ethnic color of the Middle Urals, villages, folk music and - strange as it may seem - a concentration of defense industry plants. Here is Russia Beyond’s guide to the top attractions in in the capital of the republic, Izhevsk, and its environs if you find yourself here.

1. Fire an AK-47

Izhevsk is the city where Mikhail Kalashnikov, the designer of the most popular assault rifle in the world, the AK-47, lived and worked. The museum carrying his name is situated in the very center of Izhevsk near Krasnaya [Red] Square. The museum's collection has more than a hundred types and models of the AK-47  (the AK stands for Avtomat Kalashnikova - Kalashnikov's Automatic) but at the very least it is worth a visit for its shooting gallery. Here anyone can fire a rifle, automatic weapon or pistol provided they have two IDs (for instance, passport and driving license) on them and about $17.

2. Play Pyotr Tchaikovsky's grand piano

Wirth grand piano on which little Pyotr used to play.

Pyotr Tchaikovsky's family estate is situated 30 miles northeast of Izhevsk, in the small Urals town of Votkinsk. Here the future composer of "Swan Lake" and "The Nutcracker" spent the first eight years of his life and composed his earliest works.

Today it combines a modern multimedia museum and a historical reconstruction of life in the 19th century. The best time to visit is in the summer. But you can listen to a symphony orchestra, go on a night quest around the estate and taste pancakes with herbal tea and "tsar's jam" made from Urals grapes at any time.

The most precious exhibit here is the German-made Wirth grand piano on which little Pyotr used to play. Every year in March admirers of the composer and musicians from all over the world come to a Tchaikovsky festival in Votkinsk. The keenest guests are allowed to play on the grand piano, so you can try your luck.

3. Taste Udmurt cuisine

Taste Udmurt cuisine

Udmurt national cuisine abounds with baked dishes, exotic names and homemade infusions. Perepecha (a sort of Udmurt version of pizza), tabani (thin flat dough cakes), kystyby (another Udmurt flat cake) with caviar and eggs, and dumplings with sauerkraut - you should try all of them without delay! But be careful with alcoholic infusions: They are treacherous and not to everyone's taste. But you have no chance of getting away without trying peshchatem (a hot drink based on home-distilled alcohol, herbal tea and honey) with which guests are usually greeted.

You can try all these recipes at the Bobrovaya Dolina ethnic center at 4, Sverdlov Street. There you will also find examples of Udmurt design and Udmurt steam baths. Or you can go to the Khokhloma restaurant , which offers a menu of Russian and Udmurt dishes.

4. Visit the village where the Buranovo Grannies live

The singing group "Buranovskiye Babushki"

After the hitherto little known grandmothers from the village of Buranovo (20 miles south of Izhevsk) took part in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012 and won the hearts of millions of people with their explosive song "Party for Everybody", hordes of tourists rushed to their native village. Now it is one of Udmurtia's main attractions. The most interesting thing in Buranovo is of course the grannies themselves - the members of a folklore group are always happy to see anyone who wants to talk to them. Ask anyone how to find the grannies and they will help you since the village has only 640 inhabitants. Or come on their day, May 26.

In addition, Buranovo is a good place for ecotourism, where you can immerse yourself in rural life or go horse riding.

5. Go to an ethnic festival

Byg-Byg festival

Fortunately, there are so many of them in Udmurtia that, whenever you come here, there will be a festival of something somewhere nearby. In November, the republic's government unveiled a Calendar of Event Tourism listing all the events of the year. Would you like a gastronomic tour of Finno-Ugric cuisine? Then the Byg-Byg festival (Staryye Bygi village, 5 July) is for you. To see Udmurt culture, beautiful countryside and items of folklore, go to the Gerber festival (Pekshur village, 16 June). And, to take another example, the Rus Druzhinnaya festival (Kudrino village, in July) is about how in old Russia they not only fought in wars but also put on battle professionally for entertainment. Enjoy two days in a tent camp with a field kitchen, re-enactments and, of course, doing battle "Slav style".

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Find your ideal day trip break today

It can be difficult to decide on the best way to spend your summer. Whether you’re planning the perfect family day out, catching up with friends or just looking for your own little adventure, we can help make it something special.

That's why we’ve put together a guide to some of our favourite days out across the country, easily reached on our coaches at an affordable price.

Don't take our word for it

Thinking about a trip to Chester Zoo with National Express? Now you can hear all about it at the popular LeedsDad.com blog. How did this brave dad fare on the coach with two small children? You'll have to read on to find out...

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Adventure days

Need a break from the everyday?

See our favourite adventure days out…

Motor Safari, Cheshire

Ever fancied hurtling through stunning countryside on a quad bike or 4x4? Now's your chance!

Here's where you can learn to ride, before relaxing in accommodation ranging from bushcraft-style lodges to a five-star hotel.

Centre Parcs, UK-wide

Often billed as ‘the ultimate UK family adventure break’, Centre Parcs blends the best of both fun and relaxation for the whole family’s perfect break.

A thrilling mix of outdoor activities, action challenges and watersports are complimented by relaxing saunas and spas, set in five beautiful locations across the UK, including Bedfordshire, Wiltshire, Suffolk, Nottinghamshire and Cumbria.

Go Ape, UK-wide

Get in touch with your inner Tarzan! If you're looking to live life a little more on the wild side, this is the break for you.

With 28 Go Ape adventures dotted around England's spectacular forests, all your friends and family can enjoy Tree Top Adventures, Forest Segway Safaris and a forest-wide Zip Trekking Adventure.

Coastal getaways

There’s nothing quite like the fresh air, scenic views and traditional tranquility of the English coast to help you hit the reset button and feel your best.

Check out our favourite coastal locations...

English Riviera, Devon

Nestling along 22 miles of English Riviera coastline are 20 breathtaking beaches and coves. This unique corner of the UK is home to naturally-growing palm trees, thanks to a Gulf Stream which brings a mild climate.

With an award-winning mixture of white sand and pebble beaches, you can feel refreshed again in no time. Plus, each beach is a short stroll from classic British resorts such as Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, some of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations.

Weston Super Mare, Somerset

Boasting eleven beautiful beaches, Weston Super Mare is a popular UK day trip destination with a fantastic reputation for family fun.

A wide range of attractions are nearby, including the Sea Aquarium, Wookey Hole Caves and Grand Pier. We’re sure you'll be guaranteed a great day no matter who you bring along.

Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Lancashire

One of the most famous holiday destinations in the UK, with good reason too! Blackpool offers so much more than a traditional beach escape, and is a must-visit location for anyone looking for a traditional taste of British holiday fun.

Miles of golden sands with donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows sit next to one of the world's wildest theme parks, Blackpool Pleasure Beach. Full of rides for thrill-seekers, as well as cafes, shops and play areas, it’s ideal for those looking for a classic English trip.

Theme parks & zoos

Send your adrenaline pumping with every loop of England's finest rollercoasters, or take a gentle stroll to see your favourites from the animal kingdom.

Take a look at our top parks and zoos…

Drayton Manor, Tamworth, Staffordshire

This is one of Europe's most popular theme parks, with rides suitable for everyone from toddlers to thrill-seekers. But if big rides aren’t your thing, don’t worry; it's easy to relax with a stroll around these 280-acre grounds of lakes and parkland.

There's also no shortage of choice when it comes to dining, with fast food outlets and restaurants dotted throughout the site.

Chessington World of Adventures, Surrey

Not just a theme park but also a wild journey! Take a safari truck expedition into the mysterious African Kingdom with Zufari, the first ever theme park adventure with live animals including white rhino, giraffes and zebra.

The zoo boasts more than 1000 animals, from the exotic to the endangered, at a venue that guarantees a day out with a difference.

Thorpe Park, Surrey

Thorpe Park offers you some of the most extreme and exciting rides in the whole of Europe - it's a thrilling day out for adrenaline junkies.

From the UK's tallest log flume to Europe's highest and fastest launch rollercoaster, there are loads of unique attractions at this ever-popular theme park.

Chester Zoo, Chester

From baby tiger cubs to 110 acres of award-winning gardens, Chester Zoo is a perfect summer day out for all the family.

There are always opportunities for you to join in on festivities as the zoo celebrates big events like World Rhino Day, Summer Stampede and Wildlife Connections Festival.

City breaks

Want to spend some time where all the action happens in the hustle and bustle of city life?

Explore our most popular city destinations…

In the vibrant heart of the country sits Birmingham, England's second capital city. And it’s just one comfortable coach journey away with our fantastic Day Return deals.

If you're looking to experience authentic British tradition, culture, shopping and entertainment, there's really no better place to visit than this lively, diverse city.

Discover more on our Birmingham webpage .

Packed with award-winning city centre attractions, breathtaking coast and countryside, plus a cultural scene to rival the capital, you won't be short of things to do in Liverpool.

A haven for shoppers, music fans and families seeking fun, Liverpool is a friendly city that welcomes millions of tourists each year.

Plan your trip on our Liverpool webpage .

As one of the most visited cities in the world, London needs little introduction. With such a wealth of attractions; from art and history to food and culture, you'll be spoiled for choice as to how to spend your time here.

From historic buildings such as Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge and attractions like the London Eye and Madame Tussauds, London is a city that offers a memorable experience to any visitor.

Find out more on our London webpage .

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath invites you to explore its unique mix of stunning architecture, rich heritage and rolling countryside.

From relaxing, natural spa's to high-octane family fun, acres of Royal gardens and picturesque coastlines and beaches, Bath offers the perfect break for visitors, no matter what you're looking for.

Explore your options on our Bath webpage.

Steeped in history, Oxford is a perfect city to stroll around and take in all it has to offer. If you're looking for something a little more adventurous then take a trip down the River Cherwell in a traditional Oxford punt boat.

Worth a note, the Magdalen Bridge Boathouse offers punts, rowing boats and pedalos for hire for a classically English day out.

Get inspired on our Oxford webpage .

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If your return date is not yet known, open return tickets provide flexibility. When travelling within the UK, the return journey can be made within 3 months of the outward date of travel. To guarantee your seat on your return journey you need to confirm your ticket before you travel by visiting www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call us on 03717 81 81 81. Lines open 7 days a week, 8am - 8pm (calls to this number are charged at local rate). Valid on any day throughout the year.

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Udmurtia history & culture, Kalashnikov & Chaikovsky 2-day tour to Udmurtia covering its capital Izhevsk and second city Votkinsk Udmurtia The history of Udmurtia starts in ancient times, when the Udmurt people lived in the current Kirov and Tatarstan areas. Ethnic conflicts with other local people (among which the Tatars) as well ,as violent christianisation drove the Udmurts to the north-east, further away of the banks of the Volga river. They settled down in an uninhabited area around the Izh River, which later became the Republic of Udmurtia. The first Russians came to Udmurtia in the 12th century, but it was not until 1552 - when the Russians overthrew the Tatar leadership of neighbouring Tatarstan - that Russian presence in Udmurtia became obvious with foundation of towns. Izhevsk Izhevsk, the city that became capital of Udmurtia in 1921, was founded in 1760 on the banks of the Izh river/pond ,as a settlement for the workmen of a local iron plant producing ship anchors. In the early 1800's, arms and tool factories were built. It was mainly the arms (and arms mechanics) industry that hugely developed over a relatively short period of time.Until now it supplied 12,5 million (!) arms to the army. It is the very same industry that Izhevsk became famous for - especially when Kalashnikov, a local mechanics engineer, had his huge successes in gun engineering. Kalashnikov became a Soviet hero when his AK-47 won many (international) prizes and eventually became the world's most popular automatic machine gun. Modern Izhevsk has 800.000 inhabitants, of which one third are Udmurts. In spite of its importance, Izhevsk has poor transport connections,it is not located at the Trans Siberian Railroad - but it can be easily accessed by road from Perm... Program Day 1 Transfer (5 hours) from Perm to Izhevsk in the morning. Small tour through the centre, seeing the Udmurt presidential residence, the Great Patriotic War memorial with its eternal flame and the central orthodox church. Visit to the Kalashnikov Museum, a large and very modern museum, which boasts a complete range of Kalashnikov models. The world famous AK-47 is, of course, among the collection. Lunch on arrival. Visit to the"National centre of decorative and applied art of Udmurtia". The centre functions as a museum, but additionally offers several workshops where one can see how art is applied, including patterned weaving, patterned needlework, decorative wood working, decorative painting, etc. The centre has a large souvenir shop - the only of its kind where traditional Udmurt applied art (its own work) can be purchased. The building in which the museum is located was built in 1810 and now is an architectural monument. Transfer to architectural and ethnographic museum “Ludervai” ( 20 km). Excursion in the museum with demonstration of udmurt folklore ceremonies and traditions. Transfer back to Izhevsk. Dinner in museum-inn "Podkova". Podkova is a strikingly original combination of a restaurant and ethnographic museum, of which the excellent menu offers some traditional Udmurt dishes. Transfer to hotel, overnight stay in hotel in centre of Izhevsk. Day 2 Breakfast. The Udmurt language (Finno-Ugric) originally had no written form. Instead, decorative art (always rich in colour and variety of typical patterns) was commonly practised to replace the need of cultural expression. It is this very skill that the Udmurts remain famous for in present times. Transfer to Votkinsk, the town where famous composer Chaikovsky was born and spend 8,5 years of his life. Just before arrival in Votkinsk, a short visit to the museum of Galina Kulakova - Udmurtia's most famous sport legend (cross country skiing) - is planned. She won silver and bronze on the winter olympics in Grenoble in 1968, three times gold in Sapporo (1972), gold and bronze in Innsbruck (1976) and silver in Lake Placid (1980). Lunch on arrival in Votkinsk. Visit to the impressive former house of Chaikovsky: the Chaikovsky Museum. Excursion 2 hours. Transfer to Chaikovsky (town on the way to Perm, south of Perm region). Visit to ethnographic museum “Saigatka”. Transfer to Perm, arrival in the evening. Optional program. Dinner. Overnight stay at the museum-house of artists Svedomsky. Day 3 Breakfast. Transfer to Perm. On the way stop in the town of Osa, visit to museum of local lore with unique diorama of historic events, that took place in the 17 th century. Lunch. Arrival to Perm in the evening.   Persons 2 3 4 5 6 7 8-12 12-16 16+ 2-day tour to Udmurtia 942 786 577 504 455 421 394 375 req. Optional 3-day tour 1188 898 752 665 608 567 535 521 req. Prices p.p. in euro (€), subject to change Back to Cultural tours page

Tel: 01709 591473

2024 brochure out now, providing the relaxation you truly deserve, all b r guest holidays include:-, free door to door service on 5 days or more holidays (within 8 miles of mexborough, barnsley & hemsworth only), bed, breakfast and evening meal, day out excurisons, luxury coach with extra legroom on all seats, on board facilities, a professional and personal service from booking your holiday to the end of your trip, where we go.

2024 Brochure

THURSFORD Christmas Spectacular

Saturday 14th – monday 16th december 2024.

For any enquiries or to book – Call – 01709 591473

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Izhevsk city, Russia

The capital city of Udmurt republic .

Izhevsk - Overview

Izhevsk is a large industrial, commercial, scientific, educational, and cultural center of the Volga and Ural regions, the capital of the Udmurt Republic. This city located about 1,300 km east of Moscow is known for its defense and engineering industries and is unofficially called the “arms capital” of Russia.

The population of Izhevsk is about 645,200 (2022), the area - 315 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 3412, the postal codes - 426000-426076.

Izhevsk city flag

Izhevsk city coat of arms.

Izhevsk city map, Russia

History of izhevsk, foundation of izhevsk.

According to archaeological excavations, the first settlements appeared on the territory of Izhevsk in the 3rd-5th centuries AD. Over time, this land became part of the Kazan Khanate (1438-1552). In 1552, Russian troops captured Kazan and the Kazan Khanate ceased to exist. By 1558, the peaceful incorporation of the Udmurt lands into the Tsardom of Russia was completed.

In 1582, Ivan the Terrible granted the land in the lower reaches of the Izh River to the Tatar Prince Bagish Yaushev. In 1733, his descendants sold it to Alexei Ivanovich Tevkelev, a Russian diplomat of Tatar origin.

In 1734, in the Urals, a mountain was discovered with large deposits of iron. Several state-owned factories were built to extract and process ore in its vicinity. Ore reserves were so abundant that these factories could not cope with its processing. It was necessary to build additional factories.

In 1757, Count Peter Ivanovich Shuvalov received permission from Empress Elizabeth Petrovna to build three more ironworks in the Kama River area. It was decided to build one of the factories near the Izh River. In 1760, the construction of the Izhevsk factory and the village of the same name began here. This year is considered the founding year of Izhevsk. The population was about 200 people.

More Historical Facts…

Izhevsk Factory in the Russian Empire

By 1763, a dam was built and the Izhevsk Pond was created. After the death of Shuvalov, in order to pay off family debt, Catherine II signed a decree on transferring the Izhevsk factory to state ownership.

In 1774, during a peasant uprising led by Yemelyan Pugachev, the settlement was captured and all the factory superiors (42 people) were executed, the factory was looted and partially burned. After the liberation, production was partially restored, but because of the lack of large orders, difficult times came. In 1780, the population of Izhevsk was about 2,000 people.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the threat of war against Napoleonic France forced the Russian government to think about increasing the output of firearms and cold steel. In 1807, Emperor Alexander I signed a decree establishing a new weapons factory in the Urals on the site of the Izhevsk ironworks.

To staff the factory with qualified personnel, more than one hundred German, Swedish, and Danish gunsmiths, as well as toolmakers, blacksmiths, turners, and other artisans were invited. In addition, more than 1,000 artisans from other factories in Russia were transferred here. In 1840, the population was about 16,000 people.

In 1867, Izhevsk officially became a village. In 1885, in order to avoid a reduction in arms production in peacetime and a decrease in its technical level, the Main Artillery Directorate of the Russian Empire allowed the acceptance of orders for the manufacture of hunting weapons from private individuals. The production of civilian guns had begun, which ceased because of the start of mass production of the Mosin rifle in 1897. In 1917, the population was about 40,000 people. Until 1918, the settlement continued to be called Izhevsk Zavod (Factory).

Izhevsk in the 20th century and beyond

February 21, 1918, by the decision of the Izhevsk Soviet of workers, soldiers, and peasants deputies, the Izhevsk factory was transformed into the town of Izhevsk. In November 1920, the indigenous population of this region gained their autonomy. On June 10, 1921, the capital of the Votsk Autonomous Region was transferred from Glazov to Izhevsk. The first Russian motorcycle was produced in Izhevsk in 1929.

The beginning of the 1930s was a turning point in the development of Izhevsk and Udmurtia. In 1930, the first conference of Udmurt writers took place in Izhevsk, the Udmurt State Philharmonic Society, the theater and art school were formed.

In 1931, the Udmurt Pedagogical Institute (Udmurt State University), the Udmurt Institute of History, Language, and Literature, the Udmurt State Drama Theater (the State National Theater of the Udmurt Republic) were opened.

In 1934, Izhevsk became the capital of the Udmurt Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. The acquisition of capital status, as well as the deployment of large industrial enterprises in the city, led to its rapid development. By the end of 1935, Izhevsk became a large industrial center of the Urals. In 1939, the population of Izhevsk was about 175,000 people.

In the fall of 1941, during the Second World War, several defense enterprises were evacuated to Izhevsk. In June 1942, the Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant (“Izhmash”) was organized. During the war years, 11 million 145 thousand rifles and carbines, more than 15 thousand aviation guns, almost 132 thousand anti-tank rifles were produced in Izhevsk.

In 1949, the legendary designer of small arms Mikhail Timofeevich Kalashnikov moved to Izhevsk. His AK-47 assault rifle, manufactured at the Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant, successfully passed military tests and was adopted by the Soviet Army. December 12, 1966, the first Izhevsk car was produced. In 1967, the population of the city was about 376,000 people.

On December 27, 1984, at the initiative of the party authorities, Izhevsk was renamed Ustinov in memory of Dmitry Ustinov, the Minister of Defense of the USSR, who died 7 days earlier. Later, on June 19, 1987, after numerous protests by locals, the original name was returned to the city, and the name Ustinov was assigned to one of the new districts of Izhevsk.

In 1989, the population of the city was about 635,000 people. Izhevsk survived the turbulent post-Soviet period quite well thanks to the continued demand for its military products.

In 2008, Izhevsk became the main venue for the celebration of the 450th anniversary of the voluntary entry of Udmurtia into Russia. On September 3, 2010, Izhevsk celebrated its 250th anniversary. In autumn 2010, a reconstructed embankment was opened on the shore of the Izhevsk Pond.

Pictures of Izhevsk

Izhevsk cityscape

Author: Igor V. Kuznetsov

The central square of Izhevsk

Author: Boris Busorgin

Soviet-era apartment building in Izhevsk

Izhevsk - Features

Izhevsk is located in the eastern part of the East European Plain, between the Vyatka and Kama rivers, on the non-navigable Izh River. The main reservoir of the city is the Izhevsk Pond. Created in the second half of the 18th century, the Izhevsk Pond is one of the largest artificial reservoirs in Eastern Europe.

The name of the city comes from the name of the Izh River on the bank of which the Izhevsk Ironworks was built and a village was founded in 1760. The City Day of Izhevsk is celebrated on June 12.

The climate is temperate continental with short warm summers and long cold winters. The warmest month is July with an average temperature of plus 19 degrees Celsius. The coldest month is January, its average temperature is minus 12.4 degrees Celsius.

Izhevsk is a developed industrial center of Udmurtia and the Urals. This city is known in Russia and in the world for the production of high-quality steels, advanced mechanical engineering, in particular: the production of weapons and military equipment, small arms and rifles, cars, and instruments. The legendary designer of small arms, General Mikhail Timofeevich Kalashnikov is an Honorary Citizen of Izhevsk.

The largest transport hub in Udmurtia, the city is located at the intersection of air routes, rail, and road transport. The main types of public transport are buses, trams, trolleybuses. The airport of Izhevsk offers mainly regular flights to Moscow and St. Petersburg. It takes about 17 hours to go from Moscow to Izhevsk by rail.

On the territory of Izhevsk there are more than 300 objects of historical and cultural heritage: 166 architectural monuments, 4 monuments of archeology, 81 objects of monumental art, and about 60 plaques.

The city has a lot of beautiful churches, unusual monuments, interesting museums, and pleasant green areas for walking. Tourists often buy souvenirs with weapons themes, patterned woolen socks and mittens, dolls in national Udmurt clothes, and paintings made by local artists.

Main Attractions of Izhevsk

St. Michael’s Cathedral . Located in the central part of Izhevsk, this church is considered a symbol of the revival of the spiritual life in Udmurtia and all of Russia. The original cathedral was built with the money of the workers of the Izhevsk factory in 1907-1915. In 1937, it was completely destroyed. In 2007, the building was restored. This church is 67 meters high and stands on the highest place in the city. Karla Marksa Street, 222.

Museum and Exhibition Complex named after Mikhail Kalashnikov - the most popular museum in the Udmurt Republic, a must-see place for everyone who is interested in the history of Russian small arms.

Here you can see not only the weapons created by Mikhail Kalashnikov, but also all models of small arms that have ever been or continue to be produced by the Izhevsk arms factory. The collection also includes numerous gifts and souvenirs presented to Mikhail Kalashnikov. Borodina Street, 19.

National Museum of the Udmurt Republic named after Kuzebay Gerd . Located in the building of the former Arsenal of the arms factory, an architectural monument of the 19th century, it is one of the largest museums in Udmurtia.

In total, the museum has about 200 thousand exhibits in several collections: weapons (cold and firearms), written sources and photographs, historical, archeological and ethnographic exhibits (national costumes, peasant utensils, etc.). The exhibitions are mainly devoted to the history and nature of Udmurtia, the history of peoples living here. Kommunarov Street, 287.

Udmurt Republican Museum of Fine Arts . The museum has about 13,000 exhibits: works of artists and folk craftsmen of Udmurtia, a collection of graphics, paintings, arts and crafts, Russian icons, and sculptures. Each collection in one way or another reflects the development of fine and decorative art of Russia in the 19th-20th centuries. Kirova Street, 128.

Museum of Izhmash (Izhevsk Machine-Building Plant) . The collection of this museum shows visitors the history of the development of small arms in Russia. In the hall #1, you can see firearms (rifles, carbines) and cold steel produced from 1808 to 1947. In the hall #2, there are weapons of the Second World War. Part of the exhibits in the hall #3 is dedicated to Mikhail Kalashnikov. Sverdlova Street, 32.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (1818-1823). This church built in the style of Russian classicism is located in the historic center of the city and stands out against the backdrop of the traditional architecture of Izhevsk. Maksima Gorkogo Street, 66.

Izhevsk Zoo - one of the main attractions of the capital of Udmurtia and one of the largest zoos in the Volga region with an area of 16 hectares. There are several exhibition zones: “White North”, “Far East”, “Our Taiga”, “Pond”, and “Udmurt Village”. Kirova Street, 8.

Embankment of the Architect Dudin . Located on the shore of the Izhevsk Pond mostly in the central part of the city, it was named in honor of the first architect of Izhevsk S.E. Dudin. In 2010, the embankment was reconstructed and became one of the most popular places among locals and visitors of Izhevsk. This is one of the most picturesque places in Izhevsk.

Monument “Friendship of Peoples” (“Forever with Russia”) . This monument was erected in honor of the 400th anniversary of the entry of Udmurtia into Russia in 1972. It is a 46-meter stela consisting of two pylons symbolizing Udmurtia and Russia. The monument has an inscription in Udmurt and Russian languages: “Glory to the great friendship between Russian and Udmurt peoples”. Likhvintseva Street (on the shore of the Izhevsk Pond).

The main building of the Izhevsk arms factory (1808-1815) - the first multi-story industrial building in Russia, a monument of urban planning and architecture of national significance. Deryabina Street, 3.

Monument to the Izhevsk Crocodile . This postmodern monument is a two-meter statue of an imposing anthropomorphic crocodile sitting on a bench. It was planned that the monument was to become an unofficial symbol of Izhevsk. The choice of a crocodile as a symbol was not accidental. At the beginning of the 20th century, there was a legend about crocodiles living in city rivers. Crossroads of Kommunarov and Sovetskaya streets.

Museum-Reserve “Ludorvay” - an architectural and ethnographic complex located on the territory of the village of Ludorvay about 15 km south-west of Izhevsk. It consists of 21 buildings including two manor houses, village houses, and outbuildings. On the territory of this museum you can get acquainted with the culture of the Udmurt people, try dishes of national cuisine, take part in a folklore event.

Izhevsk also has such cultural institutions as an opera and ballet theater, a Russian drama theater, a national theater, a puppet theater, a circus, a philharmonic.

Izhevsk city of Russia photos

On the streets of izhevsk.

Winter in Izhevsk

Izhevsk architecture

Architecture of Izhevsk

Sights of Izhevsk

House of Merchant Ogloblin in Izhevsk

Udmurt State University

Author: J.Huusko

Holy Trinity Cathedral in Izhevsk

Churches of Izhevsk

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Izhevsk

St. Michael Cathedral in Izhevsk

Church of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God in Izhevsk

The questions of our visitors

All 6 questions

The comments of our visitors

I visited Izhevsk with my partner who is from the area. We travelled from Scotland to Moscow and took the train to Moshga. We spent 2 days in Izhevsk with friends. Really nice place spent the morning at the Kalashnikov museum and on the firing range.

We also spent time at the museum and had a guided tour. A history I had never heard about being from the west.

For westerners like myself. Russia is not what the media tells you.. I loved it, and the people. I will be returning regularly.

• Currently 2.96/5

Rating: 3.0 /5 (225 votes cast)

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Experience the best of Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia on this comprehensive tour, staying in charming hotels throughout. The journey begins in the relatively untouched country of Laos, exploring the ancient temple town of Luang Prabang and its French colonial legacy. Continuing on to Vietnam, a rapidly developing and vibrant country, the tour covers the highlights between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), then moves on to explore the Mekong Delta. The finale is a journey[…]

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