Omsk, founded in 1716, is a large industrial, educational and cultural center with population over one million. In the 50-s years of the 20th century Omsk became an important oil-processing city. Omsk is a typical modern city with wide thoroughfares, numerous bridges and high sky-scrapers. In the old part of the city one can see examples of architecture of previous centuries including the Tobolskie Gate leading to the city fortress, the oldest constructions in Omsk. In the 19th century the convicts had to pass through this gate daily when they went to the timber cutting works. Among the convicts was famous Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky. The palace of a general-governor is another interesting sight of Omsk. This old building witnessed many historical events important for Russian history.
