Khabarovsk is the largest industrial centre of eastern Siberia and an important transport junction is located on the Amur River. On May 18, 1858 the military outpost Khabarovka was established to protect the Russian-Chinese border. It was named after Erofey Khabarov, one of the most brilliant explorers of the 17th century. The beauty of natural landscapes, broad avenues and the majestic Amur river give the city its unique spectacular look. The red brick houses in the centre have curious roofs shaped like pine needles, and are intermingled with the constructivist architecture of the 1930s. Worth visiting is the Regional museum, which offers an insight into the different cultures of the Amur people.