About Rostov-na-Donu

Rostov on Don (Russian: Rostov-na-Donu, Cyrillic Росто́в-на-Дону́) is the capital of Rostov oblast, in the Northern Caucasus district of Russia, located at the Don river near the Sea of Azov. Geographical location 47° 14' North, 39° 42' East. Population 1,012,300 (2003). The city was in essence established in 1749, as a customs house was built on the Don, and soon a large fortress that developed into a settlement. It is known as the "Gateway to the Caucasus" due to its geographical location, and its population is fairly diverse in comparison to regions in northern Russia. The Don river that the city is named for is a major shipping lane connecting southwestern Russia with regions to the north, and Rostov is an important river port in both passenger-oriented and industrial shipping. Rostov-on-Don has experienced considerable economic growth in recent years, as the Russian economy recovers nationwide. Numerous start-up companies have established headquarters in Rostov, the median income is increasing, and the city is being transformed from a place thrown back in time by the collapse of Communism into a modern, industrial and technology-rich hub.