Astrakhan, Russia

Astrakhan, Russia

Attraction Introduction   A city on the Volga River Delta in Russia and the capital of Astrakhan Oblast. Located about 100 kilometers southeast of the Caspian Sea. Population: 493,000 (1985). Founded in the 13th century. It served as the capital of the Astrakhan Khanate from 1460 to 1556. The city is an important transit point for salt, timber, petroleum, and cotton, as well as a major hub for the Caspian Sea fishing industry. Key industries include fish processing, shipbuilding, and diesel locomotive repair, followed by papermaking and chemical production. Natural gas is extracted in the surrounding areas. Highlights include the Caspian Fisheries and Marine Geology Research Institute and several higher education institutions. Notable historical sites include the 16th- and 17th-century inner city (featuring eight towers) and churches.

Moscow, Russia