Both Irkutsk and Ulan Ude are cities that rest on the Trans-Siberian Railroad. They share common elements of the cities I have visited so far along the way.
There seems to always be a Lenin Street with a monument to him.
Monument to Lenin in Irkutsk
Monument to Lenin in Ulan Ude
For Ulan Ude, writer Ian Frazier commented he instantly knew this was the largest sculpture of Lenin’s head in the world without needing to look it up to be sure. I am quite surprised that the Communists cared and took the time to ensure their ideology was visually depicted this deep into Siberia.
Tributes to the Great Patriotic War (World War II) are prevalent as well, many with eternal flames.
Eternal flame in Irkutsk
They also have a photo board picturing those who lost their life in the conflict. There is also background music piped into the plaza adding to the ambiance.
Tribute in Ulan Ude
I actually found the tribute in Ulan Ude to be the most compelling. The tank and the sculptures in the relief depicting individuals are on a small hill and immediately draws an observers attention. Not sure if this is the intent but the left side individuals look like common citizens that were transformed into soldiers, which are depicted on the right side. I was however surprised by a lack of an honor guard in both cities.
And of course….Orthodox Cathedrals…
Orthodox Catherdral in Irkutsk
Orthodox Cathedral in Ulan Ude
However, I did see a Catholic church in Irkutsk. It is a hold over from when Poles were exiled into Siberia. Also, Ulan Ude has a strong Buddhist presence with their temples throughout the region.
Occasionally, there will also be a monument to a Czar like this one of Czar Alexander III in Irkutsk.
I am now off to my last city in Russia: Vladivostok!
// Oliver – Day 89 – Russia