Tyumen is the administrative center of Tyumen Region, which divides Russia into the European and Asian parts. The city is located in the south of Western Siberia, on the banks of the Tura River, 2,200 km away from Moscow.
First City in Siberia
It was Tyumen in 1586 that started Siberia's integration into Russia. Mikhail Lomonosov once famously said, "Russia's power will become stronger with Siberia." A part of this phrase is now written on the coat of arms of Tyumen Oblast.
Though many people think that Tyumen was founded by the Siberia conqueror Yermak, in fact, the founders were Vassily Sukin and Ivan Myasnoy – Russian warlords. They came to Siberia to establish Russian rule after Yermak's death and built a fortress at the site of the current Tyumen. Earlier, there was a town here called Chingi-Tura, the capital of the Siberian Khanate.
City of Black Gold
Tyumen is the oil and gas capital of Russia. In the 1960s, major oil deposits were discovered here, and development of the Yugra and Yamal lands began. In record time, large enterprises and modern cities appeared in the midst of the empty and marshy spaces of Siberia. Tyumen soon became the administrative center of the region, managing the oil and gas enterprises.
City of Culture
Tyumen has everything to satisfy your cultural needs. Since 1858, the city has had the Drama Theater, the oldest in Russia, and in 2008 a large new building was constructed for it. Recently, the Tyumen Circus was re-launched in the restored building. The residents are rightfully proud of their modern S.I. Mendeleev Library, equipped with the most modern equipment.
City of Science
Oil and gas production in Tyumen Oblast stimulated the opening of many scientific institutes in the city. By the late 80s, the number of scientific workers in Tyumen was approximately 18,000 (roughly 10% of the population). Now, there are scores of R&D institutes in the city and its suburbs.
City of Gastronomy
Tyumen has many restaurants offering the unique Northern cuisine. When asked about the most interesting dining sites, locals often name the Chum restaurant. There you can eat delicious meals and learn the history of the region. Waiters also serve as guides, telling captivating stories about geologists of the 1960s who came to conquer this wild region. Also, the restaurant displays exhibits provided by the Tyumen Local History Museum. The most popular dishes are sliced frozen whitefish and venison salad. Besides, the restaurant was sanctified by a real Siberian shaman, so people believe that if you make a wish there, it will certainly come true.
City for Strolling
The most popular place for strolling is the Tura River embankment and Lovers' Bridge connecting its banks. One more pedestrian area in the center of the city is Tsvetnoy Boulevard, with several squares with fountains, museums, and the circus. You can visit the Siberian Cat Park, at which monuments to 12 Siberian cats are erected to memorize that they once saved the State Hermitage in St. Petersburg from a rat invasion.
City of Many Religions
Tyumen is populated by adherents of varying religions. The city hosts the Orthodox and Catholic churches, mosques, a synagogue, and other religious facilities. The St. Trinity Monastery built in the early 17th century still operates in the city.
Near the City
In winter, you can leave the city, jump into a sleigh with Siberian huskies harnessed, and drive across the snowy forest. After driving, you can visit the Verkhny Bor Recreation Center and swim in the outdoor pool with therapeutic water supplied from the hot spring Eldorado. You can also visit the birthplace of the famous chemist Dmitry Mendeleyev – Tobolsk, 200 km away from Tyumen. The Tobolsk Kremlin, a unique masterpiece of Siberian architecture, is also located there.
