Within the framework of administrative divisions, Arkhangelsk Oblast is divided into six cities and towns of oblast significance, twenty-one districts, and two island territories (Franz Joseph Land and Victoria Island).December 18], 1708 Tsar Peter the Great issued an edict which established seven governorates.[6] In 1796, the viceroyalty was split into Arkhangelsk and Vologda Governorates, the latter one including the areas currently in the south-east of the Oblast.After a number of administrative reforms, in 1801 it ended up as one of the four uyezds of the newly established Olonets Governorate.In 1924, the uyezds of Northern Dvina Governorate were abolished in favor of the new divisions, the districts (raions).