Chebarkul - TOP 5 things to see in the city
A journey around Chebarkul begins with an acquaintance with its main attractions - the “tricks” of the city. You can visit these special places in one day.
Lake Chebarkul
Photo: © https://yandex.ru/maps/-/CCUeVUrolB
- Coordinates on the map: 54.957248, 60.324859.
Chebarkul is often called the “land of lakes” due to the large number of blue lakes. The main one gave the city its name. Translated from the Bashkir language, the word “chebarkul” means “motley lake”. Its shores are covered with mixed forests, in which there are tourist recreation centers, health centers and ecological trails.
Chebarkul has several wooded islands, as well as peninsulas, which are also visited by tourists.
The most popular activities on the lake are boating and fishing. Chebarkul is home to tench, bream, carp, pike perch, burbot and other fish. Fishermen come to the shores of the lake at all times of the year.
But the greatest fame for the lake was brought not by picturesque views or fishing, but by the Chelyabinsk meteorite. On February 15, 2013, a space rock fell into the lake, creating a huge hole in the ice. Until the fall, research groups came to the lake and picked up meteorite fragments from the bottom. The largest was discovered in October. His weight was 570 kg. Today the fragment is exhibited in the Chelyabinsk Museum of Local Lore.
Tourists visiting Chebarkul in the summer go rafting to the site of the meteorite fall, which is marked by a buoy.
Chebarkul Fortress
- GPS coordinates: 54.977778, 60.345556.
The fortress was built in the first half of the 18th century to protect the southeastern borders of Russia. Initially, the fortification was built as an outpost, the most important buildings of which were located behind the walls. By 1752, the bastion acquired its own church and 125 residential buildings.
The main historical event associated with the fortress occurred in 1774, when Emelyan Pugachev sent an ambassador here. Pugachev pretended to be Peter III, promised residents all sorts of benefits and offered to join the uprising. The Cossacks believed Emelyan and surrendered the fort without resistance. The fortress became an outpost of the Pugachevites and was under their control for four months.
In May, Ivan Mikhelson, a general who later defeated Pugachev, arrived at the fortress. By this time, the Cossacks began to rebel against the Pugachevites, and Mikhelson lured them to his side. Soon Mikhelson and his army left Chebarkul. The Pugachevites did not forgive the Cossacks for going over to Mikhelson’s side and burned the fortress.
Currently, a historical and cultural complex stands on the site of the fortress. On its territory there are large-scale copies of fortifications: walls, churches, residential and outbuildings. The buildings are made of logs according to old drawings and using old Russian technology.
There is a consecrated chapel, models of wooden ships, and a working mill and well. Tourists can apply for a master class in javelin throwing and archery. The copy does not reflect the true size of the fortress, but allows you to imagine what it was like in an era of prosperity.
Pugachevsky The Gallows
- Coordinates: 54.970000, 60.351667.
Not all residents of the fortress believed Pugachev’s words. Three officers and two sergeants refused to swear allegiance to “False Peter”, for which the troublemaker sentenced them to hanging. The execution took place at the place that today is called “Pugachevsky Gallows”.
In 1949, this territory was included in the list of historical heritage sites of the Russian Federation. Currently, the execution site is built up with private residential buildings.
Ilmensky State Reserve
- Coordinates: 55.134054, 60.247441.
In the north-west of the Chebarkul region there is the Ilmensky Nature Reserve. It was founded in 1920, making it the oldest nature reserve in Russia. The territory is replete with pristine lakes and lush forests, but the main asset is its mineral deposits.
18 types of minerals were discovered in the Ilmensky Nature Reserve. In local pegmatine veins, scientists discovered topaz, sapphire, aquamarine and phenacite. The reserve's riches are displayed in all their glory in a museum dedicated to its history.
Among the exhibits is a detailed map of the area and paintings with drawings of the original inhabitants of the forests: foxes, wolves, bears and lynxes. The museum has a souvenir shop where you can buy jewelry made from semi-precious stones, as well as paintings and postcards with landscapes of the reserve.
Historical and cultural regional museum named after Gerasimov
- Address: Chebarkul district, Kundravy village, Komsomolskaya street, 63.
Sergei Apollinarievich Gerasimov is a famous Soviet film director, whose homeland was the Chebarkul region. The most popular museum in Chebarkul is dedicated to his memory. The museum exhibition is firmly connected with the life and work of the cinematic genius.
In one of the halls the atmosphere of his office is recreated. Here you can see the original library collected by Gerasimov, furniture, a desk, paintings and awards. The most famous exhibit is the cane that was given to Gerasimov by his close friend Charlie Chaplin.
In the museum you can also learn about the life of T.F. Makarova, a Soviet actress who was Gerasimov’s wife and muse. In the hall dedicated to her work, certificates, diplomas and personal belongings are exhibited.
The magnificent nature of the surroundings of Chebarkul
Delightful landscapes have made Chebarkul one of the most visited tourist centers in Russia. The natural heritage of this corner of our country will impress even the most experienced tourist.
Lake Big Kisegach
- Coordinates: 55.042566, 60.312637.
The lake is located five kilometers from Chebarkul. Its peculiarity lies in its twelve islands, the largest of which are Bolshoy, Vysokiy, Sedovlasy and Linden. They occupy the northern part of the lake.
Several rivers flow into Bolshoi Kisegach, including a small channel connecting it with Lake Terenkul. The Istok River originates from Bolshoy Kisegach and flows into its sister lake, Maly Kisegach.
The shores of the lake are covered with rocks and forest. Numerous bays make them picturesque. The forest is mostly deciduous. Birch, linden and alder trees grow here. Wild ducks nest along the shore, and you can also see seagulls.
The underwater world of the lake is diverse. People come here to catch pike, ide and large perch. In addition, crayfish live in Bolshoi Kisegach.
From the west, the lake borders the Ilmensky Nature Reserve, therefore it is also a natural monument. On its territory there are sanatoriums and holiday homes, popular among tourists.
Spruce Lake
- Coordinates: 54.996975, 60.304893.
The lake is located between the cities of Chebarkul and Mias. It is known for its “bad character,” as locals say. In autumn, the weather there is very unpredictable: the winds blow, the waves rise. However, in the summer, “Elovoe” becomes a role model - the waves give way to calm.
At this time, the swimming season starts here. Tourists settle on flat sections of the banks. Fishermen also come here to hunt for pike, ide and ripus. There are three islands on the lake: Spruce, also called “Island of Love”. It is believed that couples in love who have visited this island will never experience the fading of love. Kopeyka Island, so named because of its round shape.
And the island "Don't flap your ears." In response to endless questions from tourists about where such a bizarre name came from, local residents tell the same story. They say that a family was vacationing here once, and their boat was stolen. So the people had to spend the night on the island. “Don’t flap your ears, tourists!”
Cape Semerik
- Coordinates: 54.977718, 60.344653.
Cape Semerik is a historical area, also known as Old Chebarkul. In the 18th century there was a fortress here. Currently, the cape is a nature reserve. Quartz ridges rise on its territory. Since the beginning of the last century, rock crystal has been mined in large quantities in this interesting place.
Cape Semerik is no less interesting in terms of architecture. Many residential buildings located here were built one hundred and two hundred years ago. Walking through the private sector, you can see wooden huts decorated with carvings and elegant stone mansions. At the edge of the cape there is a maple grove that was planted by schoolchildren in the 1960s.
Malkovskaya (Pugachevskaya) mountain
- Coordinates: 54.910850, 60.335432.
Malkovskaya Mountain is a small hill on the outskirts of Chebarkul. It is covered with tall grasses and a sparse birch grove. In the western part of the Ural Mountains it is the final fort. The mountain is entwined with various legends, most of which are associated with Emelyan Pugachev.
One of them says that the troublemaker buried looted treasures here when the imperial troops announced a hunt for him. The main advantage of Malkovskaya Mountain is the magnificent panorama of the lake that opens from its top.
Krutik Peninsula
- Coordinates: 54.952992, 60.298901.
Krutik is the largest peninsula of Lake Chebarkul. It got its name because of the steep rocky shores, but inaccessible cliffs give way to gently sloping sandy beaches where tourists love to relax.
The beaches are wild, there are no amenities or infrastructure. They are visited by connoisseurs of solitude and the natural beauty of natural landscapes. After swimming, tourists often walk in the coniferous forest, where berries grow in abundance.
Korablik Island
- Coordinates: 54.976209, 60.311765.
Korablik is the most beautiful island in Chebarkul. It is located in the northern part of the lake next to the Bukaevsky Peninsula. The center of the island is decorated with a rocky hill, which gives it the appearance of a ship. This is a favorite place for tourists for swimming, fishing and boating.
Grachev Island
- Coordinates: 54.939124, 60.312628.
For a long time, Grachev Island was an isolated piece of land, but since 1997 it began to slowly merge with the southern coast of Chebarkul.
The strip of water, due to which it has not yet become a peninsula, is shrinking due to the shallowing of the lake. The island is covered by a dense mixed forest, dominated by linden and birch groves. The predominant shrub species is sea buckthorn. During the fruitful season, city residents come here to pick up the berry harvest.
The name of the island is associated with the huge number of rook nests. Sailing past the island, tourists hear the bubbling chirping of hundreds of birds.
What a tourist needs to know when visiting Lake Chebarkul
Before visiting the lake and the city of the same name, Chebarkul, you should find in advance where to stay during your vacation, for example, book a room in a nearby hotel or tourist center. Accommodation in them is relatively inexpensive, depending on the level of service of the establishment. As a last resort, it is worth considering camping as the cheapest option available, but it is important to think in advance about the safety of such a holiday option.
Another important factor to consider before entering the lake is the weather forecast. In the Southern Urals, the climate is characterized as harsh and cold, and in order to avoid discomfort it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the weather conditions and take warm clothing somewhere. Do not forget about the possible strong wind: in open space, especially on a body of water, its speed can reach high values.
Where to go in Chebarkul
It is impossible to pass by Chebarkul museums, exhibition centers and other cultural institutions where tourists will have a good time.
Chebarkul City Museum of Local Lore
- Address: 9 May Street, 18A.
The local history museum was founded in 1975. Initially, it was a private exhibition created by enthusiastic historians. In 1992, the museum became municipal property and received the status of a national museum, and the title of local history museum was awarded to it in 2001.
Today the museum has the following exhibitions:
- “Heraldry”, dedicated to the history of the coat of arms of Chebarkul.
- "History of the Chebarkul Fortress." The exhibition presents authentic documents telling about the stages of construction and historical events, as well as archaeological finds.
- “Chebarkul residents in the rear and at the front” is an exhibition dedicated to the First World War and the Great Patriotic War.
- "Nature of the Chebarkul region." Here you can see samples of minerals and plants, as well as stuffed wild animals and birds.
- “The Chebarkul meteorite” is a separate exhibition dedicated to the events of February 2013 and the stages of research of the Chelyabinsk meteorite. The exhibition features a fragment of a space rock weighing 3880 grams.
The museum also has a “Soviet Corner” and a conference hall where cultural and educational events take place.
Exhibition hall "Colorit"
- Address: Lenin street, 13.
The exhibition hall is a branch of the local history museum. Its goal is to preserve ancient traditions and promote contemporary art. “Kolorita” regularly hosts exhibitions of works by contemporary Chebarkul and Chelyabinsk artists, sculptors and masters of decorative and applied arts.
In addition to exhibitions, master classes on traditional crafts are organized here: pottery, wicker weaving, wood and stone carving.
Cinema "Volna"
- Address: Lenin street, 32B.
The cinema opened in 2007 and quickly won the love of the townspeople. Currently it is one of the most popular leisure and entertainment centers in Chebarkul.
The “Volna” screens show the latest in foreign and Russian cinema. The cinema also offers an online home cinema service. The official website hosts broadcasts of films and cartoons released in different years.
How to get to Lake Chebarkul
There are several routes to get to Chebarkul Lake. The most convenient way is by car along the M-5 Moscow - Chelyabinsk federal highway. The journey duration is about 1 hour from Chelyabinsk, taking into account all speed limits. Moving along the highway, you need to get to the city of Chebarkul, on whose territory the lake is located (but tourists are asked to note that the condition of the road leaves much to be desired).
The second way is by bus. Here you can also encounter difficulties, since direct bus routes to Chebarkul go only from the cities of the Southern Urals. If you leave the regional center, Chelyabinsk, you can use buses No. 501, 506/2, 552, 596, 946, 503/2, 503/4, 551, 517/1, 804/2, 519/1, 532, 515 , 514, 627, which depart from the Central bus station. Travel time will be approximately 1 hour 18 minutes.
There is another option for traveling by bus - from Yekaterinburg. Buses No. 505 and 505K depart daily from the Severny and Yuzhny bus stations to Chebarkul. In this case, the journey will take at least 5 hours. The schedule and cost of tickets from Chelyabinsk and Yekaterinburg can be found on the official websites. There is another way to get to the lake: taxi or car sharing. But here convenience and speed depend on the driver and the condition of the car.
Memorial compositions and city monument
Residents of Chebarkul carefully preserve the memory of the most important events in the history of their native city. Numerous memorials are dedicated to such milestones in history.
Victory Park
- Address: corner of Kalinin and Karpenko streets.
The history of Victory Park began in 1967, when an impressive monument dedicated to the Chebarkul soldiers was erected on its territory. It represents a bronze figure of a young soldier with the Victory Banner flying behind his back. The statue is placed on a three-meter stone pedestal with the Eternal Flame at the foot.
In subsequent years, Victory Park was supplemented with new monuments and soon turned into a large-scale memorial complex. Currently, there are more than ten memorial signs on its territory. Among them:
- A granite slab on which are engraved the names of Chebarkul residents who died on the battlefields of the Second World War. The monument is recognized as an object of historical and cultural heritage of the Chelyabinsk region.
- Alley of 16 busts of Heroes of the Soviet Union of the 417th Sivash Red Banner, Order of Suvorov Rifle Division.
Victory Park is not only a military-patriotic center, but also a recreation area for citizens. The area is surrounded by evergreen trees, and there is a children's playground nearby. The park attracts tourists with its colorfulness and elegance.
Monument to A.I. Kashirin
- Address: Kashirina street, 57.
Alexey Kashirin was 15 years old when he and his family were evacuated from Ryazan, besieged by the Germans, to Chebarkul. In 1943, Alexey was drafted to the front and soon became famous for his courage and resourcefulness.
In January 1945, in the city of Skuodas, he led a squad to enemy positions. The Germans opened fire from a camouflaged bunker. Kashirin threw the remaining two grenades at him, but the shooting did not stop. Then the 19-year-old sergeant closed the embrasure with himself. Thanks to this, Soviet soldiers resumed the attack and ousted the Nazis from Skuodas.
The monument to Kashirin was erected on the territory of Chebarkul school No. 4. Bronze bust depicting a sergeant in a military helmet. He seems to turn to his comrades to call them into battle. The bust is mounted on a low cubic pedestal, allowing even a first-grader to reach it and place a carnation.
Monument to V.I. Lenin
- Address: Lenin Square.
The monument to Lenin was erected in 1970 in honor of the centenary of the leader’s birth. The height of the cast iron statue is 2.5 meters. It is placed on a pedestal lined with white marble with a decorative bronze belt. The monument is located on Lenin Square.
Stele "Meteorite" (Monument to the Chebarkul meteorite)
- Coordinates on the map: 54.964897, 60.342396.
In 2013, a monument appeared on the shore of Chebarkul in honor of a significant event - the fall of a meteorite. Officially, the meteorite was named “Chelyabinsk”, but according to the landing site it is called “Chebarkul”.
The monument is located on the historical territory and is a stone stele that follows the shape of the lake. There is a through hole in it, symbolizing a break in the ice left by a meteorite. Across the stele there is a sign with the date of the event and the coordinates of the landing of the space rock.
Monument to the Victims of Political Repression
- Address: st. Kalinina.
The monument was made by sculptor V. Natarov from a snow-white stone block. On the smooth surface of the stele there is a marble tablet with an inscription of dedication and an image of a cemetery flower. The upper left corner of the stele is chipped.
On this face you can see a bas-relief of broken wings, which symbolize the broken destinies of innocent people. On memorable dates, a meeting is held at the monument, during which the Russian flag is planted at the stele, and wreaths are laid at the foot.
Temples and cathedrals of the city of Chebarkul
Chebarkul has a huge number of temples belonging to different eras, different architectural styles and different religious movements.
Church of the Transfiguration
- Address: Pushkin street, 24.
The predecessor of the modern temple was a church built in the Chebarkul fortress. In 1774, it was burned by the Pugachevites along with the rest of the settlement’s buildings. The restoration of the church had to wait until the middle of the 19th century.
The temple was built in the same place, but this time in stone. This building served believers until 1929, when, by order of the Soviet government, it was completely destroyed. The next restoration of the Transfiguration Church took place in 2007. The white stone temple in the pseudo-Russian style became the most beautiful building in Chebarkul.
It is decorated with shoulder blades and carved patterns. A massive light drum with a golden dome rises in the center. On four sides of it there are small deaf drums with domes. Adjacent to the temple is a refectory, which is a covered gallery and a bell tower with lace friezes.
The wooden Nizhny Transfiguration Church and the orphanage “House of Diligence” operate at the church. There is also an educational center for the study of Russian Orthodoxy. Since 2011, the church has been home to a community of Sisters of Charity.
In the Chelyabinsk region there are five churches consecrated in honor of the Transfiguration of the Lord, and Chebarkul is the main one.
Chapel of Peter and Fevronia
- Address: st. Sick leave.
The chapel is located in a beautiful secluded place on the banks of Chebarkul. The small log chapel has a quadrangle at the base and is crowned with a cubic drum with a cruciform spire. The chapel was built in 2015.
Church of Faith, Hope, Love and their mother Sophia
- Address: Steep Lane, 10.
The church was built between 2011 and 2015 on a narrow piece of land between lakes Chebarkul and Elovoe. The temple is made of red brick in the constructivist style. Diversity in its strict rectangular shape is brought by the risalit and the semicircular apse adjacent to the east. In the center rises a hexagonal drum with an onion dome.
Al-Amin Mosque
- Address: Bolnichnaya street, 16.
The colorful oriental building was created in 2005. The mosque is made of red brick. A semicircular apse adjoins the large rectangular building, and on the other side the composition is closed by a high three-tier tower with a peaked tent.
The tent is the main feature of the mosque. It is made of glass and is illuminated at night in a bright emerald color. The premises inside the mosque are decorated modestly in oriental style. The prayer hall is well lit thanks to frequent high windows.
Historical coats of arms of Chebarkul
Coat of arms of Chebarkul 1974
The coat of arms of Chebarkul was approved on April 23, 1974.
Author of the coat of arms: Author of the coat of arms is Vener Klementyev.
Description: “The Chebarkul fortress as a settlement was formed in 1736. Then a wooden fortress was built to protect against invasion. In this regard, the shield of the city’s coat of arms depicts stylized battlements of the fortress. On October 25, 1951, Chebarkul received the status of a city of regional subordination. By that time, two large plants had been built: metallurgical and mechanical repair. Therefore, the coat of arms depicts a stylized outline of an industrial enterprise. Agriculture is well developed in the region (grain growing, crop growing, livestock farming), therefore a stylized ear of corn and the outline of a stylized farm are also depicted on the coat of arms. The city is surrounded by numerous lakes, sanatoriums, pioneer camps, and recreation centers. The outskirts of the city are a resort area. In this regard, in the middle of the coat of arms there is a wind rose with a tent in the center, and the lower part of the coat of arms is painted blue - the color of blue lakes.”
Active recreation in Chebarkul
Spending time playing your favorite sport is good for the soul and body. Tourists should definitely visit Chebarkul sports facilities.
Ice Palace "Ural Star" named after. V. Kharlamova
- Address: Dzerzhinsky street, 2A.
The large-scale sports complex, opened in 2008, was named after hockey player Valery Kharlamov. In the 1967-1968 season. he played for the Chebarkul team of HC "Zvezda".
The sports center hosts training sessions for the Zvezda hockey club and figure skating groups. Master classes for children hockey players with the participation of famous athletes and coaches are also regularly organized. So, in 2014, American coach Sean Skinner was invited to a master class.
The main sporting events at the Ural Star include annual tournaments in memory of Valery Kharlamov, Denis Lyapin, as well as competitions with teams from the Chelyabinsk region, guests from other countries and amateur teams from Chebarkul.
“Ural Star” is the main sports complex in Chebarkul and one of the best complexes of this profile in the Chelyabinsk region.
Ski base
- GPS coordinates: 54.989894, 60.363345.
The ski resort is located on the edge of the forest. The trails are laid through pine forests and spruce groves. The air here is incredibly clean, the atmosphere is conducive to conquering new sporting heights. The ski slopes are always cleared and the night lighting is good. Tourists who visited this place left many positive reviews.
The base is visited by professional skiers and amateurs. All necessary equipment is provided at the rental point: skis, poles, gloves and goggles. The infrastructure also includes a multifunctional gym. Every season, cross-country skiing competitions are held at the ski resort. Students from local sports schools, as well as visiting teams, take part in them.
Swimming pool "Olympia"
- Address: Lenina street, 5A.
"Olympia" is the best swimming pool in Chebarkul. It hosts training sessions for children from sports sections, health programs and public swimming. The complex contains one large bowl with four paths.
The room is decorated with drawings of Black Sea dolphins. Changing rooms, showers, a storage room and a buffet are available to visitors.
Recreation center "Chaika"
- Coordinates: 54.969576, 60.284292.
The recreation center "Chaika" is located on the shore of Chebarkul. Guests stay in wooden houses or pitch a tent in a camping area at the edge of the lake. The base has its own pier. Here tourists can rent a canoe, motor or rowing boat and take an independent trip through the most beautiful places of Chebarkul.
Chebarkul is a city with a great tourist present and future
Having covered one and a half hundred kilometers from Upper Ufaley to Chebarkul, the “Our Ural” team of five men entered the city slightly hungry. Therefore, the first object that attracted our attention was the kebab shop. After placing the order, before our eyes, the man at the grill began to manipulate the meat, promising us a delicious dinner. We now had time to look around and make a first impression of the city.
First impression
Looking around, we focused our attention on the blue and white temple towering above the surrounding area. He proudly raised his golden domes into the sky. The sun that evening was covered by a gray blanket of clouds, but the sight of the building, bright in its internal content and in appearance, lifted our spirits.
Having received four portions of shashlik in our hands, we went to the opposite shore of Lake Chebarkul to the recreation center of the same name. It was there that our all-male team was to spend the next two nights. We spent days getting to know the city, its cultural and historical sites and natural monuments.
The territory of the base was quite spacious and well equipped for walking. Therefore, after a hearty dinner, we took a walk along the illuminated paths leading to the shore and the bridge to the nearest island. It was planned to watch the sunset on this island the next evening.
Conversation over a cup of tea
In the morning, having had a good rest in the fresh air and refreshed with a light breakfast, our team took seats in the car and went to the city, which in the imagination of the author of these lines has always been associated with the stern faces of people in uniform driving heavy tanks.
Expectations were not met. Within half an hour we were sipping tea and having a leisurely conversation in the city exhibition hall “Kolorit” in the company of representatives of the cultural department. We were given a meaningful and promising excursion into the history of Chebarkul and were offered to go on a trip around the city to confirm our words.
Getting to know "Colorit"
The exhibition hall turned out to be not only a demonstrative hall, but also a permanent cultural center of the city. “Kolorit” was founded almost 30 years ago with the active participation of artists-veterans of the Great Patriotic War. They are known to be serious people and, if they take on a task, they are accustomed to bringing it to completion.
This is what happened with “Kolorit”, which over time became one of the calling cards of the city. Despite the fact that more than a dozen different exhibitions are organized within its walls every year, the People’s Art Studio also conducts classes here on an ongoing basis and completely free of charge. It is attended by people of different ages and levels of initial training.
Meteorite fragment in the local history museum
The next cultural site on our walk around the city was the local history museum. The director of the institution, Tatyana Vladimirovna Zapevalova, honestly warned that the premises were being prepared for renovation, and some of the exhibits had already been packed for storage.
The warning turned out to be unnecessary. Even in pre-repair conditions, we were given a very interesting excursion. For many people in the country and even in the world, Chebarkul is familiar from the fall of a meteorite into the waters of the local lake. One of the largest fragments of that meteorite, by the way, found shelter in a museum window.
At the same time, the full exhibition of the museum gives a clear understanding that you can’t just leave Chebarkul. The number of attractions of former times and modern times will not allow you to skip the city in one fell swoop. You need to get to know him thoroughly and without much haste.
Mufti Vugram Hazrat and his brainchild
At the Al-Amin mosque we met the Mufti of the Chelyabinsk region, Sheikh Vugar Hazrat Akperov. Under his leadership, this mosque was built in Chebarkul, which in its architecture, interior decoration and authority is not inferior to the mosques of large cities with a predominantly Muslim population.
Vugar Hazrat told us what obstacles he had to overcome during the construction of the mosque building. He said that not only representatives of the Muslim part of the population of Chebarkul, but also Orthodox believers turn to him for advice. He shared that he had an excellent relationship with the rector of the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord, Father Dimitri. By the way, the church and the mosque are located not far from each other. The Orthodox Church is clearly visible from the mosque gates.
Model of the fortress and a pointer to the site of the meteorite fall
After visiting the mosque, we, accompanied by the head of the exhibition hall, Tatyana Fedorovna Ponomareva, moved to the shore of Lake Chebarkul, where a copy of an ancient fortress was erected, and a sign was installed reminiscent of the fall of a meteorite. This is one of the most popular tourist places in Chebarkul.
There is free access to the fortress. Inside there are buildings and a functioning chapel, which is visited not only by travelers, but also, for example, by newlyweds. Every person who finds himself in this wonderful place must go to the sign with the coordinates of the point where the meteorite fell (incorrectly, by the way) and look into a special hole indicating the buoy indicating the place where the celestial body fell.
View of the meteorite crash site
The great hockey player Kharlamov in Chebarkul
We went to the Ural Star ice palace named after Valery Kharlamov with great hope of getting as much information as possible about the time when Valery Kharlamov played for the local Zvezda team. This happened in the 1967-1968 season.
A wonderful sports facility where the hockey players of today’s “Star” train, as well as young figure skaters. In the foyer of the Palace, a stand telling about Kharlamov is located in a prominent place. Veterans remember it, and beginning players know it. But we were still advised to visit the museum of school No. 6. They said that there was an excellent exhibition there. Dedicated to the famous player.
Having overcome some surprise at such a redirection and having received the go-ahead from the school director Irina Viktorovna Perepelyuk to visit the museum, we went to school. Doubts were dispelled from the first minutes of my stay in the museum.
The exhibition dedicated to Valery Kharlamov turned out to be truly unique. Personalized stick, protection, helmet and other authentic things, memories of teammates, guests from all over the world...
It’s not for nothing that the museum attracts a lot of people’s attention, and not only with the exhibition about Kharlamov. If you find yourself in Chebarkul, insist on the opportunity to visit this museum!
Cinema, museum and famous fellow countryman
Moving around the city, we turned to the Volna cinema. Its opening took place on August 16, 1966. Recently the equipment was replaced with modern equipment. A small museum has been created on the basis of the previous equipment.
At the entrance to the cinema there is a memorial plaque dedicated to Sergei Apollinaryevich Gerasimov, the famous film director who glorified our cinema for many years. The future outstanding cultural figure was born in the Chebarkul region.
During our conversation, the director of the Volna cinema, Nina Alekseevna Builova, reported a pleasant trend. In her opinion, viewers began to return to cinemas. Family trips to the movies have resumed. One of the reasons Nina Alekseevna named the appearance on the screens of high-level domestic films: “Moving Up”, “Chernobyl”, “Devyatayev”...
Chebarkul milk rivers and inheritance director
The most delicious excursion for us was a visit to the Chebarkul dairy plant. After communicating with General Director Dmitry Aleksandrovich Gritsenko, for the rest of the time we worked in the Chelyabinsk region, we looked in stores only for products from Chebarkul. The head of the enterprise told us about it so appetizingly and interestingly. Moreover, he confirmed his words with the opportunity to taste the products right at the table in his office.
By the way, Dmitry Alexandrovich can be called the hereditary director of the plant. He took over the baton from his father, Alexander Petrovich. Near the entrance of the plant, there is a monument to Alexander Petrovich Gritsenko. They say that it was he who laid down the traditions that his son continues.
The use of high-quality raw materials, strict adherence to technology, control at all stages of the production chain, and work with consumers are the main components of the enterprise’s success.
Walk through the partisan camp
Another object of tourist attention is, of course, the complex called “Partisan Village”. It was built and maintained in good condition not only by adults, but also with the active participation of young people. Initially, when you find yourself on the territory of the facility, it seems that you are on the set of some kind of film about the war. By the way, here are the ready-made sets for filming. You can start working without much prior preparation. However, even without the spotlights, “Partisan Village” makes a deep impression. The actors here are replaced by mannequins. Everything looks very realistic.
Residential dugouts, a hospital, a headquarters - everything is just as we imagine in our imagination since childhood. Our delegation was small, and therefore everyone managed to find themselves at some point in these dugouts alone with all the decorations. The feelings experienced there cannot be expressed in any movie. Perhaps something like this simply cannot be conveyed in ordinary museum exhibitions.
Real soldiers “played” the war game
We remember with special gratitude that the employees of the Chebarkul Department of Culture managed to agree on a visit to the military training ground, where the tank biathlon stage took place in those days. And even though on the day of our arrival, it was not tankers who competed, but infantrymen in BMPs (infantry fighting vehicles), it was still an amazing spectacle. Especially for our men's team.
High speeds, explosions, shooting, the presence of a large number of military personnel reminded us of the years of our own service in the army. At some point, when I saw the general, I involuntarily tried to tighten my stomach and straighten up closer to attention. It didn’t come down to saluting, but the general clearly noticed my movements, and he and I smiled kindly. There's no escape, army training remains for life.
Temple of Heavenly Beauty
Of course, the desire to linger at these war games was great, but other objects were waiting for us. Moreover, we were finally getting ready to visit the very temple that attracted our attention in the first minutes of our stay in Chebarkul. The beautiful Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord in its current form was revived relatively recently. But its history goes back to the distant eighteenth century. The first wooden church was burned by the Pugachevites. Afterwards, the church was revived several times, fell into disrepair, and was destroyed by unkind people, but grew again and is now visible from different parts of the city and even from the distant shores of Lake Chebarkul.
The interior decoration of the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord matches its appearance. Severity and beauty. Luxury and solemnity. Content and Worship. High and beautifully painted dome part. Paintings on the walls and in the arches. Rich iconostasis.
A magnificent view of the city and surrounding area opens from the high bell tower. There is a well-groomed and landscaped courtyard around the temple. Abundance of plants, small architectural forms. There is a spiritual and educational center at the temple.
Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord
Two sanatoriums - two destinies
We ended our two-day program in the city of Chebarkul with a trip to the Utes family resort and the Kisegach sanatorium. The territories of both sanatoriums are free for visiting guests and tourists. People come here just to relax. On the shore of Lake Bolshoy Kisegach, a well-equipped beach is open to everyone. Sanatoriums have their own history. Kisegach received its first patients back in 1926, and Utes opened twenty years after its older brother. Over the years, thousands of people have improved their health here.
Family resort "Utes"
Sanatorium "Kisegach"
Another legend about Yurma
While moving from one object to another, Tatyana Fedorovna supplemented the information about Chebarkul with her stories. Among other things, she shared the legend about the glorious Russian warrior Semigor and the treacherous old woman Yurma.
According to legend, the old woman tried to steal the magic mirror from the hero, but she did not have the strength to do it. Then she broke the mirror, and it shattered into small fragments, each of which became a lake with the purest water. And the old woman was punished by Sinegor, who turned her into Mount Yurma, now famous in the Southern Urals.
Come to Chebarkul! You will not regret!
The legend itself is beautiful and instructive, but it cannot fully reflect what man has created on this earth. The history of Chebarkul was made up by people. We only managed to meet a few of them. We also learned about those people who were born or lived in this amazing region in the old days.
Now we would really like even more people to come here. So that they can see what we managed, and better yet, even more. In Chebarkul you can not only take part in educational excursions, but also have a wonderful rest. There are enough facilities here where you can stay for a long period.
As for attractions, almost everyone can easily find them in Chebarkul to suit their taste. It’s enough just to come here and choose objects of attention that correspond to the tourist’s preferences.
Author: Alexey Gerasimov Photo: Sergey Suvorov
Read also about Chebarkul and its attractions: Attractions of Chebarkul: Local History Museum Attractions of Chebarkul: the Volna cinema and its museum Attractions of Chebarkul: Kopeika Island - the best place to relax
Entertainment for children in Chebarkul
Little tourists will not be bored in Chebarkul. Bright entertainment centers are open for them in the city, where they can play and run around to their heart's content.
"Shishkino Park"
- Address: Razezd Kisegach village.
"Shishkino Park" is a children's play complex located in a pine forest on the banks of Chebarkul. In the ecological zone, a playground with slides, swings, carousels and rope courses was equipped for children. There is also a sports ground for older children, which includes horizontal bars, parallel bars and exercise machines.
The forest is equipped with “ecological corners” - places with log gazebos and wooden slides. Shishkino Park continues to expand. In the future, there will be new carousels and a mini-football field. In addition, in winter it is planned to clear the frozen Chebarkul area for mass skating.
Children's entertainment complex "ZeBrATUT"
- Address: Dzerzhinsky street, 13.
ZEBRATUTE is a modern leisure center that includes a trampoline room and a games room. The complex has trampolines designed for different age categories: from safe ones for children to professional ones. The playroom is combined with a trampoline room and serves as a relaxation area for children. A huge number of toys, ball pits, slides and board games await the young guests of ZEBRATUT.
The entertainment center organizes children's parties with animators who organize games, quests and master classes, for example, on face painting. Entertainment "ZEBRATUT" is not limited to the complex. Very often sporting events take place outdoors. On such days, interesting contests and competitions with prizes are organized on the territory of the attraction, delighting children.
You may be interested in the sights of other cities of the Chelyabinsk region - Chelyabinsk, Kyshtym, Miass, Satka, Zlatoust, Magnitogorsk
It is not surprising that Chebarkul is becoming more and more popular every year. Its nature itself is capable of luring tourists, and numerous attractions, cultural and entertainment centers do not leave tourists the opportunity to resist the desire to come here.
When is the best time to visit Lake Chebarkul?
It is worth visiting this amazing place in the winter season, because the beauty of the lake surrounded by forests is mesmerizing: you can see snow on coniferous trees falling in flakes when gusts of wind, the white icy surface of the reservoir, etc. At this time of year it is worth trying special skiing paved trails and skating on cleared ice. Near the lake there are many camp sites where you can rent equipment.
Lovers of warm weather can also safely visit the lake in a comfortable season for them. In summer you can find no less activities and hobbies in Chebarkul than in winter. Here you can rent popular types of transport, for example, ATVs and pit bikes, and ride around the surrounding area - for this there is a lot of space in the form of forests and fairly wide banks. Families with children can try a horse-drawn carriage ride.
