Nikolaev
Nikolaev is a city situated in southern Ukraine along the estuary of the Southern Bug River
Only 65 km (40 miles) from the Black Sea, the city is an important river port. With a population of roughly 500,000 residents, many find employment directly in the ship building industry or in supporting mechanical engineering, power engineering and metallurgical industries.
Founded as a shipyard in 1789, the site was chosen specifically for the purpose of repairing naval ships serving in the Russo-Turkish War. Since that time, the city's history has always been closely connected with ship building. Starting with wood vessels, the city now produces some of the world's most sophisticated ships. With 3 large shipyards, each capable of producing large navy ships, it was here that Russia's solitary aircraft carrier was commissioned.
Nikolaev is also a major cultural and educational center. Some of the city's more notable sights include the Church of Nicholas, the Nikolaev Theatre of Ukrainian Drama and Musical Comedy, the Museum of Arts, and (of course) the Museum of Shipbuilding. Staying on the theme of ship building , it may interest current students to know that Nikolaev is also home to a renowned Shipbuilding Institute.