Sightseeing in Omsk - what to see. Complete travel guide
Today, Omsk is an administrative center of the region. It is a big industrial and science center of Siberia located at the junction of two rivers, Irtysh and Ob. It is the second most populated Siberian city, following Novosibirsk. Also, Omsk is quite a big port and railway hub. The history of the settlement goes back several centuries. The tribes of the Sargats, the ancestors of the modern Hungarians, lived here even before the Common Era. Later, the powerful Siberian Khanate appeared here. The remains of the local population mixed with Tatars. Islam became the dominant religion.
There had been almost no Russians until the 16th century. The Turkic-speaking people mostly lived here. Only the conqueror of Siberia, Ermak, led the Russian people to these lands. They cultivated land as opposed to local hunters and herdsmen. In the 18th century, the Cossacks built boundary lines and fortresses and cultivated land here. At the same time, the defensive constructions of the first Omsk fortress fell into disrepair, so it was decided to build a new fortress.
Trade and especially export were actively developing. Omsk exported fish fur, leather, oil, and Siberian corn to foreign countries. Actually, the Revolution in 1917 brought to naught all the achievements of the pre-revolution period. Omsk was destroyed during the Civil war. The White Guard Movement was established here. In 1919, Omsk became the major headquarter of Admiral Kolchak. In the Soviet period, the city industry was actively developing. More attention was paid to the agricultural sector. Besides, many enterprises were transferred here, which was of benefit to Omsk. Today, it is quite a modern and big city in Siberia.
One of the main symbols of Omsk is the wonderful Cathedral of the Assumption. It was built in the late 19th century and went through many important historical events. After the Revolution, it was blown up upon the order of the city government. It was restored in 2005. The cathedral was rebuilt according to the original historical features. Its facade is decorated in the old-Russian style. Big domes are painted in gold and rich azure.
The real value of the city is the Vrubel Museum that occupies a very beautiful historical building. This art museum presents over 24 000 unique exhibits, including antiques. The building occupied by the museum was built at the end of the 19th century. Originally, it served as the governor’s palace. Today, the art museum is one of the largest in the region. Different themed exhibitions are regularly organized during the year.
Another historic building that is distinguished by its modest size and exterior is occupied by the Dostoevsky Literature Museum now. It was opened not so long ago, in 1975. Originally, it served as the affiliate of the Local History Museum. It became independent in 1983. The museum is located in the building of the late 18th century that is the preserved part of the Omsk Fortress. This house is famous for the fact that the eminent Russian writer F. M. Dostoevsky lived here during his exile.
The Museum of the Military Glory of Inhabitants of Omsk founded in 1985 is dedicated to the deeds of the Great Patriotic War. The museum occupies the spectacular post-war building. Now, you can see here different exhibits dedicated to the wartime. The notable Omsk inhabitants’ personal belongings, military weapons, historical documents, letters, and children’s toys - these are just some of the exhibits presented here.
Travelers should also visit the Local History Museum that is the oldest culture venue in Omsk. The museum collection started to be formed in 1878. It presents the rich collection of ethnographic, art, archeological, and historic exhibits. It also organizes international exhibitions and has a lot of prestigious awards.
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City tours, excursions and tickets in Omsk and surroundings
Reference information
Map of all parks
National and city parks around Omsk
♥ Nature Park 'Ptich’ya gavan’' , 4.7 km from the center. On the map
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Sightseeing in Russia: things to see
The most famous resort destinations in Russia are Sochi, Anapa and Adler. These cities are also rich in numerous historic buildings and modern entertainment centers. Travelers are recommended to visit the dolphinarium, which is open in Adler. Here visitors will be able to see entertainment performances and shows. Besides dolphins, the shows feature seals and visitors can see a true king of the sea - a giant white whale. The tomb of Hercules remains the most unusual landmark of Anapa. It was discovered during archaeological excavations in 1975. The tomb belonged to Gorgippia, a noble family. It's more than 1500 years old and got such an unusual name because of beautiful drawings that feature scenes from myths about Hercules.
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All about Omsk, Russia - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Omsk, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Omsk in few days.
