Rostov-on-Don (Russian: 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. The city's name is also often transliterated as Rostov-na-Donu. Geographical location . 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. The Don River that the city is named for is a major shipping lane connecting southwestern Russia with regions to the north, and Rostov-on-Don 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 the city, 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.

It was the birthplace of acclaimed actor, Alexander Kaidonovsky.

There is another city in Russia called Rostov (in Yaroslavl Oblast).

The city is also twinned with the Scottish city, Glasgow and German city Dortmund

External links

• Rostov's Entertainment Site (In Russian)
• Official Rostov's Administration Site (In Russian)
• Soviet topographic map 1:100,000