Biysk

Biysk is an industrial hub in Altai Krai, Russia, stretching along the right bank of the Biya River at an elevation of 180 meters and covering 291 square kilometers. The settlement links several roads heading toward Mongolia and other parts of the region with a railway network that reaches across Siberia.

Peter the Great ordered the construction of Bikatunskaya fortress in 1709 to protect the Russian border, but Dzungar forces destroyed it in 1710. After rebuilding, the settlement grew into a trading hub between Russia and Central Asia during the 19th century.

The Museum of Local Lore, opened in 1920, displays objects and installations that explain daily life in southern Siberia across the centuries. Walking through the rooms, visitors find traces of regional crafts and everyday traditions in each hall.

The railway station offers connections to the Trans-Siberian Railway, while several highways link the region with Mongolia and the rest of Altai Krai. Roads are easy to navigate in summer, though winter travel may take longer due to weather.

Scientists observed two complete solar eclipses here in March 2006 and August 2008, occurring within just two years. Such events at the same location are extremely rare and continue to attract astronomers to the region.

Location: Biysk Urban Okrug

Inception: 1709

Elevation above the sea: 180 m

Website: https://biysk22.ru

GPS coordinates: 52.51667,85.16667

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:16