Bratsk is a city in the Irkutsk region of Russia. It is the
administrative center of the Bratsk region (which is not part of).
Bratsk forms the municipal formation of the city of Bratsk with the
status of an urban district as the only settlement in its
composition.
Bratsk is located on the banks of the
Bratsk and Ust-Ilimsk reservoirs, formed on the Angara River. It is
an agglomeration of dispersed residential areas, separated by
significant forests and water spaces. Residential areas, varying in
size and degree of improvement, are former settlements that have
arisen near industrial enterprises under construction. The total
area of the city's territory within its urban boundaries is 262.94
km², the area of the municipality, including inter-settlement
territories and parts of the water areas of the Bratsk and
Ust-Ilimsk reservoirs, 428 km².
Bratsk is located in the northwest of the Irkutsk region in the
central part of the Angarsk ridge. The city arose in 1955, in connection
with the construction of the Bratsk hydroelectric power station, north
of the ancient village of Bratsk (Bratsk, Bratskoye), founded as a
prison in 1631.
Bratsk is one of the largest industrial centers
of the Angara region.
Despite the fact that the city is located
in harsh climatic conditions, outside the zone of intensive development
of Eastern Siberia, its economic and geographical position is relatively
favorable and is characterized by a developed infrastructure (transit
railway (BAM), highways of federal and regional significance, power
transmission lines, an airport with the status international), high
resource and economic potential (the largest industrial city in the
region, the electric power resources of the Bratsk hydroelectric power
station, huge water resources, shipping and timber rafting routes,
etc.). Bratsk serves as an important base for the development of the
northern regions of Eastern Siberia and the Far East.
The city is
the second in terms of population in the Irkutsk region.
It is a
member of the Association of Siberian and Far Eastern Cities, the
Association of Municipalities of the Northern Territories of the Irkutsk
Region, the Union of the Cities of the Arctic and the Far North.
By Air (Fastest and Most Common Option)
Bratsk Airport (BTK)
handles mainly domestic flights, operated by airlines like S7 Airlines,
which offers direct routes from a few cities. There are about 110
arrivals per month, or roughly 4 per day, all domestic. No direct
international flights to BTK, so plan for connections.
From the
US: Fly to Moscow (Sheremetyevo SVO or Domodedovo DME) or Irkutsk (IKT)
first. Major carriers like Aeroflot or partners via Europe/Asia offer
routes from US hubs (e.g., NYC JFK to Moscow, ~10-12 hours, $500-1500
round-trip). From there:
Moscow to Bratsk: Direct flights with
S7, ~6-7 hours, RUB 7,000-32,000 (~$70-320 USD).
Irkutsk to Bratsk:
Shorter flights, ~1-2 hours, but less frequent.
Total from US
(e.g., NYC): 20-30 hours including layovers, starting at ~$800-2000
round-trip. Use sites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to
compare.
Tips: BTK is small; taxis or rideshares to city center
(~20-30 min, RUB 500-1000). Book in advance, especially in winter when
weather can delay flights.
By Train (Scenic but Time-Intensive)
Bratsk sits on the Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM), a branch of the
Trans-Siberian Railway, making it accessible by rail from across Russia.
Trains are reliable but slow—ideal for adventure travelers.
From
Moscow: Direct trains (e.g., via Russian Railways), 3 days (~72 hours),
RUB 11,000-17,000 (~$110-170 USD) for 2nd class (kupe). Departs from
Yaroslavsky Station.
From Irkutsk: ~17 hours, RUB 1,250 (~$13 USD)
for 2nd class. Part of the BAM route.
From the US: Fly to a
Trans-Siberian starting point like Moscow or Vladivostok, then hop on.
Total rail journey from Moscow is epic but exhausting—bring food and
entertainment.
Tips: Book via Russian Railways (rzd.ru) or apps like
Tutu.ru. Bratsk has multiple stations (e.g., Padunskiye Porogi for BAM);
confirm yours.
By Bus or Car (For Regional Travel)
Best for
shorter distances within Siberia; not practical from far away.
From Irkutsk: Bus ~10 hours, RUB 800 (~$8 USD); or drive ~7 hours (500
km) on the R255 highway, but roads can be rough in winter. Taxi option:
~RUB 1,200 (~$12 USD).
From Other Cities: Limited long-distance
buses; check Avtovokzaly.ru for schedules.
Driving from US?: Not
feasible—ship a car or rent in Russia, but international borders and
distances make it impractical.
Tips: Buses are basic; opt for trains
for comfort on longer routes.
Bratsk Hydroelectric Power Station
This massive dam, completed in
the 1960s, is one of the world's largest hydroelectric facilities,
standing 125 meters high and stretching over a kilometer wide. It powers
much of Siberia and created the vast Bratsk Reservoir. Visitors can view
it from nearby viewpoints for a sense of its scale—tours might be
available, but check locally due to security. It's a symbol of Soviet
engineering prowess.
Bratsk Reservoir
Formed by the dam, this
enormous artificial lake covers about 5,470 square kilometers and is a
hub for fishing, boating, and scenic outings. Surrounded by taiga
forests, it's popular for summer recreation and offers stunning vistas,
especially at sunset. In winter, it freezes over for ice fishing. The
reservoir supports local jobs and draws eco-tourists interested in
Siberia's wilderness.
Architectural and Ethnographic Museum
Angarskaya Derevnya (Angara Village)
Located about 12 km from the
city center, this open-air museum recreates a traditional Angara-style
Russian village with authentic wooden structures, including a rare
watchtower, churches, and homes relocated from flooded areas during the
reservoir's creation. Surrounded by forests, it's great for walking
tours to learn about 17th-19th century Siberian life. Reviews praise its
peaceful setting and cultural exhibits—allow 2-3 hours to explore.
Bratsk Museum of the History of the Development of the Angara River
Housed in a branch of the city's history museum, this spot details the
Angara River's role in regional development, including indigenous
peoples, exploration, and modern industrialization. Exhibits feature
artifacts, photos, and models of the dam project. It's educational for
history buffs, with a focus on how the river shaped Bratsk.
Art
Exhibit Hall - Bratsk Joint City History Museum Branch
This gallery
showcases local art, including paintings, sculptures, and temporary
exhibits on Siberian culture. It's a quieter attraction, ideal for
appreciating regional artists in a modern setting.
Museum of
History of Political Repressions
A somber site commemorating victims
of Stalin-era repressions, with displays on Gulag camps near Bratsk,
including the Angara camp that housed up to 44,000 prisoners for
infrastructure projects. It offers poignant insights into Soviet history
through documents and personal stories.
Park of Culture and
Leisure of Bratsk Municipality
A central green space for relaxation,
with walking paths, playgrounds, and seasonal events. It's
family-friendly and hosts cultural activities, making it a good spot for
picnics or people-watching.
Religious Sites
Bratsk has several
churches reflecting its Orthodox heritage. The Church of the Nativity
features classic Russian architecture and icons. The Church of All
Saints Resplendent in the Russian Land is another notable wooden
structure. For a modern twist, visit the Roman Catholic Church of Saints
Cyril and Methodius.
Center
Shopping center "Baikal", st. Yangelya, 120. ☎ +7 (3953)
25–88–32. One of the largest shopping centers in Bratsk. Clothes
provided; food and household products. There is a hairdresser and a
cafe.
Shopping center "Arena", st. Krupskaya, 56. ☎ +7 (3953)
42-10-84. 10:00–20:00. Large shopping center. Mostly clothes provided.
There is a coffee shop.
Central Market, Komsomolskaya st. 62. 10:00 -
17:00. Large market, provided food and household products from
individuals.
Shopping center "Coliseum", st. Krupskaya, 14. Mon-Fri:
8–22, Sat-Sun: 9–21. Big mall.
Energetic
Shopping center
"Inva", st. Gindin, 4. ☎ +7 (3953) 33‒13‒41. 10:00 - 20:00. The main
shopping center Energy. There is a coffee shop and a hairdresser.
Shopping center "Pursey", st. Gindina, 4. ☎ +7 (3953) 37-87-40 10:00 –
21:00. Large shopping center Energy. On the territory there is a coffee
shop, cafe.
Bratsk, a Siberian city in Irkutsk Oblast known for its industrial
heritage and location along the Angara River near the massive Bratsk
Reservoir, has a modest but diverse dining scene. With around 168
restaurants as per recent estimates, options range from traditional
Russian and Siberian fare to international influences like Chinese,
Japanese, and Georgian cuisines. Many establishments emphasize local
ingredients, such as fresh fish from the reservoir or Buryat-inspired
dishes like buuzy (steamed dumplings). The scene caters mostly to
locals, with some spots offering cozy atmospheres suited to the cold
climate, though English menus are rare outside tourist-oriented places.
Prices are generally affordable by Russian standards, with mid-range
meals ($$ - $$$) around 500-1500 RUB per person. Based on traveler
reviews and ratings from sources like TripAdvisor and local directories,
here are in-depth descriptions of some standout restaurants, focusing on
top-rated or frequently mentioned ones. I've prioritized those with
higher ratings and more reviews for reliability.
Fishka
Rated
4.1 out of 5 based on 33 reviews, Fishka is a versatile spot blending
cafe and restaurant vibes, specializing in pizza alongside coffee, tea,
and lighter Russian-inspired meals. It's priced in the mid-range ($$ -
$$$), making it accessible for casual dining. Located in central Bratsk
(exact address: Kirova St., 27), it offers delivery, takeout,
reservations, outdoor seating, and a full bar with wine and beer. The
atmosphere is family-friendly with highchairs, TV, and validated
parking, and it's open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and
late-night bites. Reviewers praise its diverse menu that includes
European, Russian, and Georgian elements, with standout pizzas noted for
their quality and reasonable portions. One highlight is the calm,
welcoming environment ideal for groups or families, though some mention
service can be slow during peaks. Popular dishes include fresh salmon
preparations (though one visitor found it underwhelming) and hearty
Georgian khachapuri. It's a go-to for those seeking variety without
venturing into high-end territory.
Chaina Town (also known as
China Town Cafe)
With a 4.3 rating from 20 reviews, this Chinese
restaurant stands out for its authentic flavors in a Siberian setting.
Mid-range pricing ($$ - $$$) positions it as a solid choice for dinner
or special occasions. Situated at Engelsa, 29, it evokes an early
20th-century Russian noble house interior, adding a unique cultural
fusion to the dining experience. The menu focuses on Chinese classics,
but prices are on the higher side compared to average local
eateries—comparable to Moscow standards—due to exotic ingredients. Staff
are described as friendly, and the ambiance is elegant yet cozy. Notable
mentions from reviews include delicious, partly exotic dishes that feel
premium; however, it's not inexpensive, so expect to pay for quality.
It's ideal for those craving Asian cuisine amid Russian surroundings,
with service that's attentive but potentially language-barrier
challenged for non-Russian speakers.
Rock Garret
Earning a 4.0
from 29 reviews, Rock Garret is more than a restaurant—it's a
multifunctional venue combining dining, pub vibes, and live rock music,
making it Bratsk's top pick for an evening out. Cuisine leans Russian
with some international twists, priced mid-range ($$ - $$$). No specific
address is widely listed, but it's centrally located and known for its
lively atmosphere. Open late, it features seating, full bar service, and
often hosts events, appealing to music lovers and groups. Reviews
highlight the energetic environment, good food quality, and overall
value as a social hub. Popular for its atmosphere on the Angara River
side, diners rave about the cozy setup and amazing food, including
traditional Russian staples. It's not ideal for quiet meals but perfect
for those wanting entertainment with their dinner; one reviewer called
it "a nice and cosy Restaurant on the Angara" with strong emphasis on
food quality and vibe.
Mun Gen
This Russian-focused eatery
holds a 4.1 rating from 14 reviews, emphasizing hearty, traditional fare
in a mid-range setting ($$ - $$$). Details on exact location are sparse,
but it's in the city center. The menu highlights Siberian specialties,
with buuzy (Buryat dumplings) frequently praised as "amazing" and a
must-try for first-timers. Atmosphere is straightforward and welcoming,
suitable for lunch or dinner. Reviews note excellent food preparation,
with one calling the buuzy "отличные" (excellent), and overall good
kitchen standards. It's a solid option for authentic local tastes
without frills, though portions are generous and service is reliable.
Ruki Vverkh!
A newer or less-reviewed spot mentioned in Russian
food lists, Ruki Vverkh! appears in top Russian cuisine rankings with
positive nods. Rating around 4.0-4.5 informally, it's mid-range and
focuses on fast-casual Russian dishes. Reviews are enthusiastic about
the cuisine, with mentions of "хорошая кухня" (good kitchen) and a wide
selection of baked goods and meals in a culinary-style setup. It's
family-oriented, with options for kids, and suits quick bites or fuller
meals.
Amrita
Frequently listed in top recommendations, Amrita
has a strong reputation for quality, though exact ratings vary (around
4.2-4.5 from aggregate sites). It offers a mix of Russian and
international cuisines, priced affordably. Known for its welcoming staff
and diverse menu, it's a reliable choice for vegetarians or those
seeking variety. Reviews emphasize fresh ingredients and a pleasant
atmosphere, making it suitable for everyday dining.
Don Japon
Topping some local lists with high ratings (around 4.5+), Don Japon
specializes in Japanese fare like sushi and rolls, which reviewers call
"вкуснейшие" (most delicious). Mid-range pricing, it's praised for
modern takes and fresh quality. Atmosphere is contemporary, and it's
recommended for those urging Bratsk to "step into the times" with global
options. Service is efficient, with a focus on delivery and takeout.
Other Notable Mentions
Myunkhen: German-inspired with high
ratings (4.4+), known for beers and hearty meats in a pub-like setting.
Belyy Bereg (White Shore): Rated well for its riverside location,
offering recreational vibes alongside dining; includes a pool and
special experiences.
May Tay: Thai influences, praised for spicy,
flavorful dishes in a cozy spot.
Dodo Pizza and Pizza Olla: Chain and
local pizzerias with 4.0+ ratings, noted for affordable, delicious
pizzas in calm environments.
Лимончелло (Limoncello): Italian-leaning
with positive reviews for pasta and ambiance.
Gollivud:
Entertainment-focused, similar to Rock Garret, with good food and lively
nights.
Bratsk, an industrial hub in Siberia's Irkutsk Oblast with a
population of around 230,000, offers a limited but functional hotel
scene geared more toward business travelers, locals, and occasional
tourists exploring the Angara River, Bratsk Reservoir, or nearby taiga
forests. With approximately 36 properties listed on major platforms like
TripAdvisor, options include basic Soviet-era hotels, modern 3-star
establishments, health resorts (sanatoriums), and apartments or
guesthouses. Ratings average 3-4 out of 5, reflecting modest
expectations in a remote area—focus on clean rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, and
proximity to the city center or dam. English-speaking staff are rare,
and amenities often emphasize practicalities like free parking and
on-site dining suited to cold winters. Prices are budget-friendly by
Russian standards, typically 2,000-5,000 RUB ($20-50 USD) per night for
mid-range, though exact rates fluctuate seasonally.
Yubileiny
This Russian health resort tops many lists with a 3.6/5 rating from 5
reviews on TripAdvisor, emphasizing value (5.0/5) and service (4.5/5),
though rooms score lower at 3.0/5. Located about 12 miles from Bratsk
Airport and 9 miles from the city center, it's ideal for those seeking a
quiet, wellness-focused stay near nature. As a sanatorium-style
property, it offers basic accommodations with an emphasis on relaxation
and health services, though specifics on spa treatments aren't widely
detailed. Key amenities include comfortable beds (sleep quality 5.0/5),
likely free Wi-Fi, and on-site dining. Room types appear standard, with
simple furnishings suitable for singles or couples. Guest excerpts
highlight its affordability and peaceful vibe: one reviewer praised the
"excellent value for money" and friendly staff, while another noted
clean but dated rooms. Pros: Strong value, good sleep quality, serene
location. Cons: Limited reviews suggest potential inconsistencies in
room modernity; no elevator mentioned. Unique features: Health resort
focus, making it suitable for extended stays or recovery trips in
Siberia's fresh air.
Taiga Hotel
Rated highly as a 3-star
option (often #2 on TripAdvisor), Taiga Hotel earns praise for its
central Bratsk location, about 18 miles from the airport. No aggregate
rating from the snippets, but reviews commend its reliability with
scores implying 4+/5. Price range falls in the mid-budget category,
around 3,000-4,000 RUB per night. Key amenities: Air-conditioned rooms
with city views, free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurant (serving Russian, local,
and European cuisine for breakfast, brunch, dinner, and high tea in a
traditional ambiance), bar, 24-hour front desk, ATM, and free parking.
Rooms are equipped with desks, TVs, fridges, private bathrooms (shower,
free toiletries, hairdryer). Guest review excerpts: Positive include
"breakfasts were tasty and nutritious," "lift is comfortable and fast,"
and "cleaning services are qualitative"; negative mention potential
noise from ground-floor renovations (10:00-18:00) and no pets allowed.
Pros: High repeat guest rate, convenient city views, solid dining
options. Cons: Extra fees for late check-in/out or extra beds (RUB
600-800), no cribs. Unique features: Emphasis on repeat visitors
suggests consistent quality; the restaurant's varied menu stands out in
a remote city.
Lux (Отель Люкс)
Positioned as #3 on
TripAdvisor, Lux is a modern hotel with no overall rating yet from 0
reviews in recent data, but its amenities suggest a 4/5 potential based
on descriptions. Located at Naberezhnaya 62, it offers scenic lake and
mountain views, about 20-30 minutes from the Bratsk Hydropower Plant.
Prices are mid-range, estimated 3,500-5,000 RUB. Key amenities: Indoor
swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, free on-site parking, restaurant, airport
shuttle, and breakfast. Room types vary extensively—standard (184 ft²,
king bed), lake view (174 ft²), family rooms (204-521 ft² with
king/queen beds), mountain view (221-307 ft²)—all with AC, private
bathrooms (bathtub/shower, free toiletries), flat-screen TVs,
refrigerators, and views (lake, mountain, or courtyard). No guest
reviews available, but pros include family-friendly options and pets
allowed on request. Cons: Extra bed fees (RUB 3,000), no cribs; lack of
reviews means unverified consistency. Unique features: Diverse room
views and sizes, plus the indoor pool—a rarity in Bratsk for year-round
swimming in harsh winters.
Guest House Vremena Goda
Ranked #4
on TripAdvisor, this guesthouse provides a charming, homely alternative
with implied 4/5 ratings from aggregate lists. Centrally located in
Bratsk's heart, it's convenient for exploring local sites like the Drama
Theatre. Prices are budget-oriented, around 2,000-3,500 RUB. Key
amenities: Warm hospitality, likely free Wi-Fi, and basic comforts in a
peaceful setting. Room types focus on standard or family setups, though
details are sparse. No specific review excerpts, but descriptions note
its "convenient location and warm hospitality." Pros: Affordable,
central access, cozy atmosphere. Cons: Limited amenities compared to
full hotels; English may be challenging. Unique features: Emphasizes
Russian hospitality, ideal for immersive local stays rather than luxury.
Tri Kita
A top specialty lodging (#1 on TripAdvisor) with a 4/5
rating from traveler reviews, Tri Kita appeals to those wanting a
unique, non-traditional hotel experience. Located near the city center,
about 11-12 miles from key sites like the Tourist hotel. Prices not
specified but likely mid-range. Key amenities: Shared kitchen for
self-catering, free Wi-Fi, and on-site connectivity. Room types include
units with private bathrooms. Guest excerpts are positive overall, with
mentions of clean facilities and convenience; one notes it's "near the
city center" with good self-catering options. Pros: High rating for
specialty category, free Wi-Fi keeps guests connected. Cons: Limited
reviews (only a few), may lack full hotel services like 24-hour desk.
Unique features: Focus on self-sufficiency with kitchen access, plus
high group traveler ratings (9.7/10 on some platforms).
Krylaty
Rated 4/5 from 5 reviews as #2 specialty lodging on TripAdvisor, Krylaty
is another health resort-style property. Situated in Bratsk, details on
exact location are limited, but it's near attractions. Prices budget to
mid. Key amenities: Basic comforts, likely Wi-Fi and dining. Room types
standard for resorts. Review excerpts praise its value and service,
similar to Yubileiny. Pros: Good overall satisfaction, quiet
environment. Cons: Few reviews, potentially dated facilities. Unique
features: Health-oriented, with candid photos showing cozy setups.
Klubny Kvartal (Klubny)
This limited-service property ranks #7 on
TripAdvisor lists, with an 8.4/10 from 6 reviews on other sites.
Centrally located with sea views (likely reservoir). Prices around 3,000
RUB. Key amenities: Balconies with views, cable flat-screen TVs,
well-fitted kitchens, private bathrooms (bath, hairdryer). Room types
apartment-like for self-catering. Guest excerpts: "Very good" overall,
with praise for views and facilities. Pros: Self-contained units, high
user satisfaction. Cons: Limited full-service amenities. Unique
features: Kitchen and balcony emphasis for longer stays or families.
Other Notable Mentions
Bratsk Hotel: 2/5 from 39 reviews, #13
specialty. Central with bay views, large rooms, but reviews
mixed—"disgusting" Soviet-style vs. "good location." Amenities: Basic,
no toiletries sometimes. Pros: Affordable, views. Cons: Outdated, lazy
staff.
Tourist: Basic, near Bratsk Dam. Reviews note OK rooms/food,
homely meals. Pros: Location for dam views. Cons: Microwave dinners,
slow Wi-Fi.
Hotel Shvedka: Central, 5-min to theatre, free Wi-Fi.
Pros: Convenient, clean. No detailed ratings.
Hotel AeroBratsk:
Airport proximity, business-friendly.
Sobolyok or Lukomorye: Pool
options, recreational vibes.
Most of the major mobile operators operate in Bratsk: MTS, Megafon, Beeline, Tele2.
Foundation of the Bratsk prison
The first winter hut "under the
Bratsky rapids" was set up in 1626 by a detachment of Cossacks under the
leadership of the clerk of the Yenisei prison Maxim Perfilyev.
The construction of the prison, planned for 1630, was carried out in
1631. The initial place for the construction of the prison was
determined near the mouth of the Oka River, but since this place was
located almost in the center of the Buryat camps, it was chosen closer
to the Padun threshold.
... but as soon as the fraternal people give
a prison to be set up on the Tunguzka River on the left side, and that
prison will be under the very fraternal uluses, just half the way in
light plows to the Oka mouth.
On June 18, Perfilyev reported to
the Yenisei governor on the completion of the construction of the Bratsk
prison:
... in two stretches at the Bratsky rapids of Padun in the
Kodogonov uluses, halfway from the mouth of the Oka.
In 1648, the
prison was moved, but not to the mouth of the Oka River, but, on the
contrary, to the right bank of the Angara River, where several villages
were located close to the foot of the Bratskaya and Monastyrskaya peaks.
In 1654, Dmitry Firsov moved the prison to the mouth of the Oka River,
perhaps first to its southern side, and then to the left bank, 2 km
above its confluence with the Angara River.
If the time of the
appearance of the Fraternal prison is unclear, it will be more cautious
to attribute its construction to the period between 1631 and 1654, since
later there is no mention of new construction or the transfer of the
prison to another place.
The brotherly prison was the threshold
to the conquest of Transbaikalia. The first in time among those built on
the Buryat lands, it was of great importance for the Russians: firstly,
as a guard post covering the way from the Yenisei to the Lena; secondly,
as a stronghold for collecting yasak from the Buryats; thirdly, as a
convenient point for equipment for expeditions beyond Baikal and as an
advanced reconnaissance point about the lands beyond Baikal and about
the peoples inhabiting them.
The emergence and slight development
of the village of Padun was due to the need to create a pilotage service
to guide ships through the Padun rapids. The granary of the villagers
was the islands near Padun (about fifteen). The islands on the Angara
bore both non-Russian names - Inkei, Sinikei, Kokidal, Turukan,
Chuburun, Kokoi, Kautoi, and Russian names - Russian, Podkamenny, Upper,
Bear, Round and others. The islands served as hunting, berry, and
mushroom lands, on the island arable land and meadows they sowed bread,
harvested hay, hundreds of heads of cattle, sheep, and horses were
transported annually to the island pastures.
Taiga province
Throughout the 17th century, the Bratsk prison was attached to the
Yenisei prison. With the loss of military significance, the prison turns
into the village of Bratsko-Ostrozhnoye, in a number of sources -
Bratskoye, later - Bratsk.
On December 28, 1917, Soviet power was
established in the Bratsk Volost. In February 1918, the First Volost
Congress of Soviets was held, which elected the volost executive
committee headed by Fyodor Vdovin. In the summer of 1919, a partisan
struggle began in the Bratsk volost, which ended with the capture of
Bratsk on December 3, 1919. Since 1926, the village of Bratskoye
(Bratsky Ostrog) has been the center of the Bratsk District of the Tulun
Okrug.
The city arose in connection with the construction of the Bratsk
hydroelectric power station, north of the village of Bratsk, flooded by
the waters of the Bratsk reservoir.
In 1946, the Council of
People's Commissars of the USSR adopted a resolution "On the
organization of the management of the Angarsk construction"
(Angarstroy). On September 23, 1954, a resolution was adopted on the
construction of the Bratsk hydroelectric power station. On July 15,
1955, the construction of the Bratsk hydroelectric power station and the
city of Bratsk was declared an all-Union construction project. On March
30, 1957, the first blocking of the Angara was completed (the river was
blocked for more than 9 hours). On July 26, 1961, the filling of the
Bratsk reservoir began; September 1, 1961 is considered the date of
birth of the Bratsk Sea.
Only in the Bratsk district, 119
settlements were intended for transfer, including the working settlement
of Zayarsk (6.4 thousand inhabitants, 1959). On August 29, 1961, the
evacuation of the inhabitants of old Bratsk was completed. In 1959,
there was the city of Bratsk (51.5 thousand inhabitants, 1959) and the
working settlement of Bratsk (15.8 thousand inhabitants, 1959).
In connection with the construction of the Bratsk reservoir, the village
of Bratsk was moved to a new location and in 1951 it was transformed
into a working settlement. On December 12, 1955, it was merged with a
number of other settlements into the city of Bratsk.
Green
town. It was named according to the color of 159 tents, and the town
(not a village, not a village) - with the hope that a city would be
here. The first tents were set up on the left bank of the river. Hangars
at the Padunsky threshold in 1954 for short-term residence, but they
stood for two years. Later, the Green Town was overgrown with panel and
timber two-story eight- and sixteen-apartment houses and temporary
shacks. They had their own eight-year school, a clinic, a bathhouse, and
a canteen. Up to six and a half thousand people lived in the town. The
Green Town ceased to exist in March-April 1961, and in September of the
same year it was flooded by a reservoir.
Modern residential areas
were originally called settlements.
Padun village. In the spring
of 1956, they began to build wooden cottages in it, then they began to
build two-story timber houses with eight and sixteen apartments. At
first, Padun was called the village of the Left Bank, then Pursey, later
it was called Constant, because it was originally built on a permanent
area not flooded by the future reservoir, next to the Green Town and the
village of Padun, which were being demolished. Finally, it was decided
to preserve the indigenous name of the village of Padun for history,
assigning it to the village. From 1957 to 1967 the village of Padun is
the center of the city of Bratsk: after moving from the old Bratsk, the
city executive committee and the city committee of the CPSU were located
in it. From the very beginning of development, Padun has been the center
of Bratskgesstroy. In the village, in numerous buildings, the divisions
of Bratskgesstroy, its administration, a computer center, and
Hydroproject were located. The western part of Padun is occupied by an
array of individual residential buildings that arose in the fifties
(Individualny village).
Village Energetik. This part of the city
began to be built in 1959. Initially, it was called the New City, but it
became Energetik when post office No. 9 was opened. The Energetik
village is closest to all other villages to the Bratsk Hydroelectric
Power Station, it was built for workers of a hydroelectric power station
and construction industry plants. In the planning structure of the
entire Big Bratsk, Energetik took the place of a satellite city of its
Central residential area.
Brotherly Sea. The settlement was
founded in 1961 to serve the Bratskoye More railway siding. During the
construction of the residential area South Padun, the Bratsk Sea
actually became part of it. At present, only the stopping point of
electric trains of the same name on the site of the former station and
the bus stop on the Vilyuy highway remind of the Bratskoye More
settlement that once existed.
Hydrobuilder. Initially, the
village was called the Right Bank. Its construction began in 1955. It
grew unusually fast: the main but temporary production base for the
construction of the dam of the Bratsk hydroelectric power station was
created here. In honor of the builders, the village was named
Hydrostroitel. From the very beginning it was built up with wooden
barrack and apartment type houses. As in Padun, a vast array of
individual buildings has appeared here.
Osinovka arose from a
peasant settlement, adjacent aspen copses, islands of fields in the
taiga and hayfields in the floodplain of the Angara River. These places
were then occupied by the village of Hydrostroitel. In the late 1950s,
during the preparation of the reservoir, it became necessary to
accommodate the inhabitants of the village of Zayarsk and the management
of Angarstroy, including the facilities of the railway station, and a
logging site, in a new place. In 1956, the Osinovka railway station
appeared, and in 1961, when the railway station was built, the station
was named Hydrostroitel. From the transported residential buildings in
Osinovka, the Zayarsky residential area arose, isolated by the railway
line.
Sukhoi settlement was founded in 1959. during the
preparation of the Bratsk reservoir, when from the village of
Pravoberezhny to a new place, on the shore of the gulf of the river.
Zyaby, transferred the Plekhanov timber transshipment base. For many
years, a geological exploration expedition was located in Sukhoi. In
December 1960, the settlements of Osinovka and Sukhoi were merged into
the Osinovsky settlement council of workers' deputies.
Central
District. Initially, it was built for workers of the timber industry
complex (the Tsentralny district was called the TIC area), workers of an
aluminum plant and residents of flooded settlements. Later it became the
administrative center of the city.
The construction of the city
began on the so-called Pyanovskaya site in 1958. In 1960, intensive
construction began. In the mornings, the builders of Bratskgesstroy
drove here from Padun, and from old Bratsk and Zayarsk - future settlers
who decided to build their own houses. In 1963, the first streets were
formalized and given the names: Mira, Podbelsky, Komsomolskaya,
Yuzhnaya, Kirov.
Chekanovsky, Porozhsky, Stroitel arose to
quickly overcome the backlog of housing construction in the Central
District. These wooden settlements were built as temporary in the zone
of harmful impact of enterprises. This arrangement deprived the
settlements of prospective development and gave rise to the problem of
their liquidation and resettlement of residents that stretched for
decades.
On December 27, 1973, the Padunsky urban district was
formed, it included the settlements of Padun, Energetik, Gidrostroitel
and the Bratskoe More.
On October 20, 1980, the Central City
District was formed, previously it was listed as "a part of the city
without districts."
In 1999, the city included the working
settlements of Osinovka, Porozhsky, Chekanovsky, Bikey, Stenikha,
Sukhoi.
In March 2014, the territory of Novaya Stenikha was
included in the boundaries of the city of Bratsk by the law of the
Irkutsk Region.
Distance to the regional center — the city of Irkutsk:
983 km by
rail (Bratsk - Taishet - Irkutsk)
618 km by road (Bratsk - Tulun -
Irkutsk)
460 km in a straight line
Distance to Krasnoyarsk:
690 km by road
544 km in a straight line
The geographical
location of Bratsk determined its status as the northern gate of the Far
East. The city is located in the center of the East Siberian region of
Russia in the central part of the Angarsk Ridge on the banks of the
Bratsk reservoir at the intersection of the most important
communications (railway (BAM), water, automobile, aviation, information)
connecting the European and Asian continents with the north of Eastern
Siberia and Yakutia, which is the basis for its economic, social and
cultural development. The city has an international airport. Bratsk is
connected by railway lines (BAM) with the cities of the central part of
Russia, Siberia, Yakutia, Transbaikalia, and the Far East. The main
roads are: Tulun - Bratsk - Ust-Kut (as part of the federal highway A
331 "Vilyuy" with a planned extension to Yakutsk), Taishet - Chunsky -
Bratsk, Bratsk - Ust-Ilimsk. The length of the city along the coast of
the reservoir is 65 km.
The climate is sharply continental with long severe winters (up to -35-50 °С) and short hot summers (up to +25-30 °С). The heating season lasts 246 days. Bratsk belongs to the territories equated to the regions of the Far North. Approximately 370 mm of precipitation falls annually.
The city is located within the first third of the Angarsk Range,
which stretches from the city of Nizhneudinsk to the Nizhnyaya Tunguska
River and is a strip of hills formed by a system of trap massifs on the
base of a common uplift. The trap massifs formed as a result of magma
cooling are locally called ridges. Within the boundaries of the city, as
a boundary between its southern and northern parts, there is the Porogi
ridge. From the very south, the city is framed, being beyond its line,
by the Long Ridge. From the south, a trap hill with Osinovaya and Rudnik
peaks adjoins the right-bank part of the city. Depressions composed of
sedimentary rocks between ridges and hills occupy logs and valleys of
rivers and streams.
The highest peaks are located on the Porogi
ridge - 618.3 m and near the railway stop Morgudon - 618.5 m. The lowest
marks are near the coastline of water bodies. At the eastern border, the
level of the headwater of the Bratsk reservoir is 402 m of the tailpipe
of the Ust-Ilimsk reservoir - 296.0 m. At the western border of the
city, the water line of the Vikhoreva River varies from 343.7 m in the
south to 325.6 m in the north.
The largest water bodies in the city belong to the basin of the
Yenisei River (Kara Sea) - the Bratsk and Ust-Ilimsk reservoirs, formed
on the Angara River, and the Vikhorev River.
The Bratsk Reservoir
is represented within the city by a three-hundred-meter strip along its
coastline, Sukhoi Log Bay and bays bounded by a conditional straight
line passing from Cape Khrebtovy near the Porogi ridge and southwest to
Cape Komsomolsk. The section of the Ust-Ilimsk reservoir occupies the
water area from the dam of the Bratsk hydroelectric power station to the
northern coastline of Zui Island. On the right, the Set stream flows
into the Bratskoye reservoir, and the Glubokoy, Novy Podvyezd, and
Luzhki streams flow into the Ust-Ilimsk reservoir.
During the
formation of the reservoir, dry logs and logs with temporary
watercourses were flooded, bays formed in their place, some of them
retained the old names of the logs (Dunaevka, Sukhoi Log, Dondir, Zyaba
bays), others were renamed (Kurchatova, Pionersky, in place of the Turok
log the name of the cape arose Pursey Bay).
The Vikhoreva River
has an average speed of 0.5 m/s, a depth of up to 3 m, a width of up to
30 m. The Bulak 3rd, Galachinsky, Pustosh, Senkin streams flow into the
Vikhorev River on the right, the small Mostovaya River, and the
Chumakhai stream flows on the left.
Small oxbow lakes and swamps
(wetlands) are found only in the floodplain of the Vikhorev River.
In the vegetation of the city, forests of natural origin and urban
plantings stand out. The dominant species in forests of natural origin
is Scots pine - 57% of the total composition of the forest stand,
drooping birch and downy birch account for 17%, Siberian larch - 6%,
aspen - 16%, in much smaller quantities there are ordinary spruce,
Siberian spruce, willow silver, shrubby alder, common mountain ash and
Siberian mountain ash.
Intra-urban vegetation is artificially
created communities that are not self-regulating systems, they need
constant care, which in most cases they do not receive. The predominant
species in the composition of urban plantings is balsam poplar, fragrant
poplar - 67%. In much smaller quantities are drooping birch and downy
birch - 11%, caragana tree - 6%, squat elm - 4%, Siberian mountain ash -
4%, Siberian larch - 3%, berry apple tree - 3% of the total. The
remaining representatives of trees and shrubs make up 2% or less of the
total.
According to the 2020 All-Russian Population Census, as of October 1,
2021, in terms of population, the city was in 90th place out of 1,118
cities in the Russian Federation.
Bratsk is a relatively young
city, the average age of city residents is 36 years old, children under
the age of 17 make up about 20%.
Bratsk is a multinational city
with representatives of 80 ethnic groups living in it. According to the
All-Russian Population Census of 2010, the following lived in Bratsk:
Russians - 224,975 people, Ukrainians - 4,654 people, Belarusians -
1,572 people, Tatars - 1,376 people, Kyrgyz - 760 people, Armenians -
744 people ., Tajiks - 610 people, Azerbaijanis - 606 people, Chuvashs -
465 people, Mordvins - 386 people, Germans - 376 people, Buryats - 291
people, Bashkirs - 189 people, Mari - 161 people, Gypsies - 156 people,
Poles - 146 people, Lithuanians - 98 people.
The city was formed from separate settlements and now consists of
several residential areas, distant from each other at considerable
distances. According to the general plan of 1958-61, industrial and
residential zones, as well as a recreation area, were allocated, the
House of Soviets, cinemas and other buildings were built. Residential
microdistricts with panel and brick buildings of 2-14 floors, with
schools, children's institutions are grouped around the surviving
sections of the taiga.
According to the Law "On the
administrative-territorial structure of the Irkutsk region", the city is
divided into the following administrative-territorial formations:
Central, Padunsky and Pravoberezhny districts, created taking into
account historical, geographical, urban planning features, population,
socio-economic characteristics, location of transport communications,
availability of engineering infrastructure.
For the
administrative management of the respective regions, committees for the
management of territorial regions have been formed. Districts include
micro-districts (residential areas), including former settlements that
are included in the city limits of Bratsk.
There are 18 banks, 10 insurance companies, the Siberian Research
Institute of the Forest and Pulp and Paper Industry (until 1992 - the
Siberian Research Institute of Pulp and Cardboard (SibNIITsK)) has
actually ceased to exist, since April 2014 . was sold and became part of
Ilim Group OJSC, Bratsk State University (formerly Bratsk Industrial
Institute, Bratsk State Technical University), a number of branches of
other higher educational institutions, 47 secondary, 11 secondary
specialized educational institutions, 56 preschool educational
institutions , 21 healthcare institutions, a number of cultural, sports
and recreation institutions, there is a well-developed network of trade
and consumer services enterprises.
Industry
Branches of OAO
Irkutskenergo:
Bratskaya HPP;
Irkutsk CHPP-6;
TITS site
(Irkutsk CHPP-7);
Fraternal heating networks.
Bratsk Aluminum
Smelter (BrAZ) (JSC Rusal-Bratsk, owned by Rusal).
Ferroalloy plant
(JSC Bratsk Ferroalloy Plant, owned by Mechel).
Bratsk timber
industry complex (BLPC) consisting of:
Branch of JSC "Ilim Group" in
Bratsk (50% of the shares of a branch of JSC "Ilim Group") and (50% of
the shares of International Paper USA);
Chlorine plant (part of JSC
Ilim Group in Bratsk).
Plywood production plant (branch of Ilim
Timber LLC in Bratsk);
Sawmill and wood processing plant (LDZ);
OOO Transneft-Vostok, a subsidiary of OAO AK Transneft;
JSC
"Svyaztransneft" Pribaikalskoye PTUS - providing communication
facilities of the main oil pipeline.
LLC "Combine Bratskzhelezobeton"
(LLC "KBZHB");
Construction company "Instroy" LLC;
Heating
equipment "Industrial Metallurgy" (former plant "Sibteplomash");
Northern Electric Networks (branch of OAO Irkutsk Electric Grid
Company);
CJSC Bratsk Electric Grid Company;
LLC "Bratskoe montage
department "Gidroelektromontazh"";
JSC "Padun-Khleb";
LLC
Khlebozavod Niva;
Plant of low-alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks CJSC
"Helios";
Farm "Helios" (production of sour-milk, sausages);
CJSC
Bratsk Poultry Farm;
LLC "Agrofirma" Pursey "";
MP "Vodokanal";
Factory of non-alcoholic beverages OOO "Master Tea";
Bratsk
woodworking plant;
JSC Bratsk plant of metal structures;
Bratsk
plant of mobile structures;
LLC "Bratsk Profile" - production of
profiled metal sheets;
Plant of mobile buildings "Sava service";
LLC "Siberian Resources" - production of wall and roof sandwich panels;
Confectionery factory "Oreshnitsa";
Siberian plant of wood boards;
Frontier NGO (production of security systems);
Siberian Sweets LLC
(production of confectionery);
PTK "Polymer" (production of plastic
containers, tanks, bowls of pools, ponds);
Compar LLC (production of
high-strength composite reinforcement);
LLC "Buran" (manufacture of
products from tin)
Snowjeep (PTK "Golitsyn") - the production of
ekranolet, snowmobiles, aerobots
PTK "Empire" plant of translucent
structures, furniture production.
Transport
Transport:
Bratsk Airport is located on the territory of the Bratsk district. By
road - 35 minutes from the Central and Pravoberezhny districts, 10
minutes from the Padunsky district
The river port of Bratsk (during
the summer navigation season it is serviced by motor ships "Meteor")
There are regular bus services between residential areas.
Trolleybus lines operate in the Central District of the city.
Higher educational institutions are open in the city:
Fraternal
State University
branch of Baikal State University
branch of the
Moscow Academy of Economics and Law.
Secondary specialized
educational institutions:
Regional State Budgetary Vocational
Educational Institution "Bratsk Medical College" (OGBPOU BMK)
Bratsk
Pulp and Paper College FGOU VO BrGU
Bratsk Industrial and
Metallurgical College
Bratsk Industrial and Humanitarian College
Bratsk professional technical school
Bratsk Pedagogical College of
Bratsk State University
Bratsk Trade and Economic College - a branch
of the State Educational Institution of Higher Professional Education
"BSUEP" in the city of Bratsk
Fraternal Musical College
Bratsk
Polytechnic College (BrPK)
Bratsk is one of the largest sports centers in the Siberian Federal
District and successfully implements the federal concept for the
development of physical culture and sports. There are 275 sports
facilities in the city, including 81 gyms, 5 swimming pools and 4
stadiums. Today, 17.5% of the urban population, or 44.5 thousand people,
regularly go in for physical culture and sports, including 1,500 at the
place of residence. More than 4.5 thousand schoolchildren - almost 19%
of the child population of the city - are regularly engaged in various
sports sections. There is a karting track. In winter - ski slopes on the
mountains "Orekhov Kamen" and "Pikhtovaya".
There are federations
in 40 sports in the city there are winners of world and European
competitions, participants and prize-winners of the Olympic Games. More
than 33 brothers are members of the national teams of Russia in various
sports. About 470 sports competitions are held annually in Bratsk, in
which more than 37 thousand people take part.
Since its opening
in 1971, 12 masters of sports of international class, about 100 masters
of sports of the USSR and Russia have been trained on the fraternal luge
track. Among the most significant achievements of the brothers, Olympic
awards are the gold medal of Alexander Zubkov at the XXII Winter Olympic
Games in Sochi-2014, the silver medals of Albert Demchenko at the XX
Winter Olympic Games in Turin-2006 and the XXII Winter Olympic Games in
Sochi-2014, the bronze medal of Valery Dudin at XIV winter Olympic games
in Sarajevo-1984.
Ten pupils of the fraternal luge school became
winners and prize-winners at the world and European championships, 36
became champions of the USSR and Russia. and Alexei Voevoda. The first
place of brother Sergey Starchenko at the World Championship among
amateur skiers, which was held in March 2008 in the USA.
In
Bratsk, cycling in general and cycling in particular are actively
developing. With the support of the city administration, the
construction of the Pikhtovy bike park for downhill, freeride and
cross-country is underway, and the Sosnovy Bor cycle track is being
built by enthusiasts. The Northern Baikal cycling marathon, unique in
Russia in terms of complexity and ideology, starts from the city,
passing along the route Bratsk-Severobaikalsk. According to the rules of
the marathon, athletes must cover a distance of 700 km in 72 hours
without any help from outside, with the exception of information about
the direction of movement and food in a cafe. The marathon route passes
through sparsely populated areas, difficult hilly terrain and 70%
consists of gravel and dirt roads of federal significance. Every year
the marathon gathers participants from all over Russia and Siberia.
Bratsk cyclist Sergei Gurkovsky as part of the LDPR Velobratsk.ru team
won first place in the international multi-day cycling marathon
Trans-Baikal 2011.
Bratchanka Nona Valerievna Savina is a
grandmaster, champion of Russia in international drafts among women in
2001 in a blitz game.
One of the significant problems of the city is the unfavorable state
of the environment. Included in the 15 most polluted cities in Russia
according to environmentalists.
High levels of air pollution, the
main sources of which are:
Bratsk aluminum plant;
Bratsk
Ferroalloy Plant;
Bratsk timber industry complex (JSC Ilim Group);
CHPP of OAO Irkutskenergo;
Forest fires occurring every spring and
summer. Last from two weeks to 4 months.
According to the State
Institution "Irkutsk Center for Hydrometeorology and Environmental
Monitoring with Regional Functions" of the Ministry of Natural Resources
and Ecology of the Russian Federation, an excess of the maximum
permissible concentration was recorded in the city of Bratsk:
hydrogen sulfide - 1.3 times;
formaldehyde - 3.7 times;
hydrogen
fluoride - 1.2 times;
The chlorine plant is a potential hazard.
The main air pollutants are enterprises of non-ferrous metallurgy,
timber processing, energy, and motor vehicles. One of the most important
reasons for the unfavorable ecological situation of the central district
of the city is the wind rose, which is dominated by western, southern
and south-western winds: it is in these directions from the city that
the production facilities are located.