Izhevsk, Capital city in Udmurt Republic, Russia
Izhevsk stretches along the Izh River in western Russia, covering five administrative districts with numerous industrial facilities at 140 meters (460 feet) above sea level. Wide boulevards connect residential neighborhoods with factories, educational institutions and parks scattered across both banks of the river.
The settlement was founded in 1760 when Count Pyotr Shuvalov began building an iron production facility beside the Izh River. This plant grew into a major center for metalworking and weapons manufacturing, shaping the character of the city to this day.
Russian, Udmurt and Tatar communities live side by side, speaking their own languages and observing their customs in daily routines. Religious and traditional festivals take place in different neighborhoods, where visitors can see local dances, music and food reflecting this diversity.
Buses, trams and trolleybuses connect residential areas with industrial zones and educational institutions across the city. Walking is practical within individual neighborhoods, though distances between districts can be substantial.
The Kalashnikov Museum displays the evolution of Russian firearms, including prototypes and variants of the AK-47 rifle developed here. Visitors can see technical drawings, tools and personal belongings of designer Mikhail Kalashnikov, who lived and worked in this city.
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