ODESSA

Odessa is rightly called "the Pearl of the Black Sea". With 40 miles of spectacular beaches, and all the facilities of a typical resort town, the city is "the place to be" during the Summer. It is also famous for its cultural traditions, fine architecture and rich history.  Just one example is the Odessa Theater of Opera and Ballet, second best theater in Europe after one in Vienna, that heard the singing of Shalyapin and Sobinov, saw performances of Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov. 

Duke de Richelieu was a founder of Odessa. Born in France, he spent a large part of his life in Russia. His biggest dream during his last years was to return to the city he loved with all his heart - Odessa. The dream never came true and he died in France. But he is remembered in Odessa. His monument is placed on the top of Potemkin steps* facing the Sea Port. Duke is holding a roll of papers in one of his hands greeting all the newly-arrived people with the other. Boulevard, where this monument is located is one of the most popular places in the city. People come there just to browse around. If anyone ever feels lonely you can just go to this monument and it is guaranteed that you will meet couple of your friends, but even if you won't you will make new friends within matter of minutes.

* The Potemkin (pronounced "patiomkeen" in Russian) Steps were built 1837-1842. The 192 steps lead down to the Black Sea post facility, and are immortalized in Sergei Eisenstein's 1925 film, "Battleship Potemkin".

Odessa Photos Opera and Ballet Theater   Inside the theater   One of many beaches   Main street More Photos