Irkutsk is a city located in southern Russia and serves as the capital of the Irkutsk Oblast in central Siberia. As of 2020, its population was approximately 623,562, making it one of the most populous cities in the Eastern Siberian economic region. The city gained prominence after being connected to the Trans-Siberian Railway in the late 19th century, earning it the nickname "the Paris of Siberia."

Irkutsk is situated about 55 km north of the southern tip of Lake Baikal, 182 km northeast of the Russian-Mongolian border, and 4,205 km east-northeast of Moscow. It lies approximately 145 km east of the Eastern Sayan Mountains, at the confluence of the Angara and Irkut rivers. The Angara River, which is 580 meters wide at this point, is spanned by the Irkutsk Hydroelectric Dam and three other bridges downstream. The Irkut River, from which the city derives its name, is a smaller waterway that flows into the Angara directly opposite the city.

More Info: fr.wikipedia.org