Arkhangelsk Oblast, Administrative region in northwestern Russia
Arkhangelsk Oblast is an administrative region in northwestern Russia that stretches across large parts of the White Sea coast and adjacent Arctic island groups. The territory includes dense forests, river channels, and coastal areas where small villages and port settlements are located.
This region served as the primary maritime gateway for Russia to the north and west until the early 18th century. The shift of sea trade to the Baltic altered the role of the territory, which then focused more on forestry and local industry.
The name of this administrative unit comes from the city of Arkhangelsk, itself named after the Archangel Michael. Visitors today can still see wooden structures in remote settlements, where craftspeople maintain old carpentry skills and continue traditional building techniques.
The climate is cold and damp, with long winters and short summers, so warm clothing is necessary even in warmer months. Large distances between settlements require longer travel times and advance planning.
Many islands in this territory remain ice-covered for most of the year and are accessible by ship only during the brief Arctic summer. Wild reindeer herds roam the tundra zones, while seabirds form large colonies on coastal cliffs.
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