Odesa - Famous Port City
Ukraine’s most famous port city is Odesa, which is situated on the north coast of the Black Sea. It was founded in 1794 by Russian Empress Catherine the Great and today is a leading center of culture, trade and tourism. Its early successful development is attributed to Frenchman Duc de Richelieu, who served as the city’s governor between 1803 and 1814. As a free port, Odesa attracted many nationalities. By 1897 Jews made up over a third of the city’s population.
Mark Twain visited Odesa in 1867 and wrote: “I have not felt so much at home for a long time as I did when I… stood in Odessa for the first time.” When in Odesa be sure to climb the 142-meter Potemkin staircase, an entrance to the city from the direction of the sea; and take a stroll along Derybasivska Street, a lively pedestrian walkway named after the city’s first mayor. A performance of the highly-respected Odesa Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by American Hobart Earle should also be on your agenda.
