Khabarovsk was founded in 1868 as a military observation post, and named in honor of Russian explorer Erophey Khabarov. At the end of the 19th century the city, which is situated on the banks of the Amur River, was connected with Vladivostok by the railway. At the beginning of the 20th century it was turned into the base of Amur fleet, and became the place for the military plant. Gradually Khabarovsk turned into an industrial center of the region. The cultural life of Khabarovsk intensively developed since 1894, when in the city the Department of Russian Geographical society was formed. The society initiated foundation of libraries, theaters and museums in Khabarovsk. Nowadays the city is especially proud of its Arts museum, where many outstanding works of art are exhibited, including ancient Russian icons.
