The Michael-Archangel Kharlampiev Church, one of the oldest Orthodox churches in Irkutsk, is often referred to by locals as the "maritime" church. It was here that Alexander Vasilyevich Kolchak was married on March 5, 1904.

Originally, the church was wooden and built in 1738 with funds from the navigator and merchant Emelyan Yugo. The lower chapel, consecrated in honor of the holy martyr Charalampius, was consecrated on January 24, 1739, while the upper chapel, erected by Cossacks, was consecrated on June 18, 1746, in honor of the archangel Michael. The same year, fundraising began for the construction of a stone building.

In 1777, thanks to Yugo's capital and donations from merchant Vasily Balakshin, the construction of the stone church began. By 1806, the church had become two-storied and had five altars. The lower altar was consecrated on September 6, 1782, and the northern altar on August 23, 1784. Three summer chapels were consecrated on the second floor in honor of the Holy Myrrhbearers, the Dormition of the Mother of God, and Saint Innocent of Irkutsk. In 1878, the altar of Saint Innocent was merged with the Myrrhbearers' altar.

The church had rich utensils and vestments, and the icons were adorned with silver coverings. The church was supported by parishioners and benefactors, including well-known merchant dynasties. Here, sailors embarking on expeditions were blessed. In 1904, Alexander Kolchak was married here, dedicating five years to Arctic research.

The church survived many disasters, including earthquakes and the fire of 1879, but was restored each time through the efforts of the parishioners. A fence was built around the church according to the design of architect V.A. Rassushin.

Various social institutions existed at the church, including a charitable institution and a school. In 1894, a shelter for the blind was opened, where education was provided using the Braille system.

In the early 20th century, the rector was Archpriest Vasily Florensov, a well-known public figure. In 1931, the church was closed, and its property was partially lost. The building was used as a dormitory and library.

In 1995, the church was declared a cultural monument, and in 1998 it was returned to the Irkutsk diocese. Restoration began in 2006, and services resumed in 2009. The church is associated with many historical figures and events, including visits from governors-general and the consecration of the City Theater.