Irkutsk’s architectural and urban heritage: preservation of its cultural sites and historical-cultural poten-tial as a factor in regional tourism development

The paper aims to analyze the historical-cultural potential of the Irkutsk city center, to consider the uniqueness and identity of its urban environment, as well as to explore the opportunities and experi-ences associated with the commercialization of historical buildings and relevant measures. The specif-ics of Irkutsk’s cultural heritage, its architectural landmarks, and tourist attractions are discussed in the study. In addition, the work examines the historical center of Irkutsk in terms of its architectural and space-planning features, along with the typology of buildings, comprising the historical and cultural heritage of varying significance. The concepts of identity and authenticity in Irkutsk’s development are defined. As part of the historical site development, it is proposed to commercialize cultural heritage (including wooden structures) through tourism (temporary accommodation), food service, and trade (gift shops, etc.). In order to attract attention to potentially suitable sites, it is suggested to develop new tourist routes connecting Irkutsk’s quarters that feature historical buildings preserved in their orig-inal state. The study presents a route plan proposed in a graduation thesis within the training program Reconstruction and Restoration of Architectural Heritage at the Irkutsk National Research Technical University (author – A. K. Mainovskaya; supervisor – A. N. Prokudin).