Beloretsk, Industrial city in Bashkortostan, Russia
Beloretsk sits on the banks of the Belaya at an elevation of around 500 meters (1,640 feet), surrounded by forests and mountains of the southern Urals. The town spreads along the river, with industrial plants standing beside residential neighborhoods and several bridges connecting the center to outer districts.
Merchants founded an iron factory at this riverside location in 1762, which became the foundation of a metallurgical settlement. Over the following centuries the place grew into an industrial town, playing a central role in regional steel production during the Soviet era.
The city takes its name from the white sandstone along the Belaya, where residents live in wooden houses and newer apartment blocks. Small shops and market stalls show how Russian and Bashkir families go about their daily routines and trade with one another.
The river divides the town into different areas, so visitors need to move between the banks to grasp the full layout. Walking paths along the waterfront offer an overview of how the industrial zones and residential quarters are arranged.
Medical and teaching colleges draw students from surrounding villages who come here to begin their training. This education sector brings young people into the industrial town and enlivens the streets during term time.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
