Toponymy of Irkutsk Region as a Part of Linguocultural Space of the Region

The article deals with the toponymy of Irkutsk region as a significant component of regional linguocultural space. A brief history of the territory development is offered, as well as information on indigenous peoples due to the fact that the toponyms of Eastern Siberia date back to different language sources. The paper examines the ethno-linguistic layers of toponyms, analyses the results of cross-language contacts reflected in geographical names, and draws conclusions on cultural syncretism on the region’s territory. Authors analyze captured in Russian and foreign toponymy peculiarities of the world perception by local old residents, their attitude to a man, family, family line, flora and fauna. Value orientations of the locals are identified. On the material of official and unofficial toponyms the following phenomena of regional ethnic culture are described: ethnic unity, life, traditions, religion, rituals, and symbols.