Chita

Chita is a city in southeastern Siberia, Russia, and the administrative center of Zabaykalsky Krai. It lies on the Ingoda River and is a major transport and cultural hub in the Transbaikalia region.

Chita began as a 1653 fort during Russia’s eastward expansion. It grew as a trading post and administrative center in Siberia and became an important link on the Trans-Siberian Railway. In the late 20th century it served as the capital of Chita Oblast; after regional reorganization it became the center of Zabaykalsky Krai in 2008.

The economy has diversified into manufacturing, machinery, metallurgy, forestry, and services. The city remains a transportation hub due to its railway junction and air link by Chita International Airport.

Chita hosts higher education institutions, including Transbaikal State University. It has cultural facilities such as museums, theaters, and libraries that reflect the region’s history and ethnic diversity.

The population is mainly ethnic Russians, with Buryat and other minority communities. Russian is the predominant language and Orthodoxy is the major religion. The city experiences a continental climate with long, cold winters and warm summers.