KUNGUR

city, Perm oblast (province), western Russia. It lies at the confluence of the Sylva, Iren, and Shakva rivers, 45 miles (72 km) south of Perm city. Founded in 1648 as a fortress, Kungur became an important post on routes to Siberia. It also became a noted centre for handicraft industries, especially in alabaster and crystal. Kungur now has machine-building and light industries. In the vicinity are alabaster-walled caves, notably the Kungur stalactite cave along the Sylva River. Pop. (1991 est.) 81,800.