The South window of Ukraine in Europe In 1794, a new seaport has been founded on the spot of the Turkish fortress Hadgybey – it is Odessa. Convinient geographical position and excellent trade opportunities have been attracting emigrants and merchants from European and Asian countries and in a short space of time it has transformed Odessa into one of the richest towns of the Russian Empire. In 1910 Odessa became the third biggest town in the Russian Empire, economical, scientific and cultural centre on its south borders. Only a few towns in the world can be proud of gaining such world-wide fame during only 200 years of its existence.
Odessa is an international town. Apart from Ukrainians and Russians, a considerable part of its inhabitants are emigrants from the Balkan or other West-European countries. Odessa citizens have always been considered as energetic, courageous, smart, and optimistic in any situation. These qualities are peculiar for them, for they have taken the best from their ancestors and have built up their own unique type of character like in any other Ukrainian town. Odessa streets are like pages of an architectural textbook. Different architectural styles are combined here in amazing harmony: Gothic, Renaissance, Barocco, Classicism and Modernism. One of the most famous examples is Odessa Opera House. There are a lot of beautiful sea-fronts, parks, monuments, museums.
Modern Odessa Odessa today is the biggest seaport in Ukraine that stretches along the coast of the Black Sea, the base of fishery and whaling, high-powered railway centre. Odessa is the third biggest town in Ukraine, the main industrial, cultural, transport, scientific and resort centre of the Black Sea area. With the population of over 1,2 million people, Odessa has preserved one of the best dynamics of economic development. Mild climate, wonderful sand beaches, historical and architectural decoration, numerous spa resorts, boarding houses, tourist centres and camping have created unique image of Odessa which is now by right called the south pearl of the sea. Restless port town on the coast of the Black Sea do not know tiredness neither in the daytime nor at night. In Ukraine it has no equal for its entertainment industry. Wide variety of sport institutions, restaurants, casinos, night clubs create enchanting festive mood.
One falls in love with this town at first sight. We are waiting for you in Odessa!
Odessa Guide 
