Udmurtia overview

A look at the map of Russia shows that Udmurtia, a land of thousand silver springs and woods - is ideally located in the picturesque parts between the Kama and the Viatka rivers, in the heart of Russia.

The republic's capital, the city of Izhevsk, was founded on April 10, 1760 by count Peter Shuvalov under the Senate decree of October 1757 on the construction of a foundry on the Izh River.

In early 19th century the threat of Napolen's invasion made the Russian tsar Alexander the First consider organizing arms production at the Izhevsk factory, and the year of 1807 marks the beginning of the glorious history of Izhevsk gunsmiths. In commemoration of the first victories captured banners of Napoleon's army are forever frozen in metal on one of the main arms factory building towers.

The Udmurt Republic is proud of its culture and achievements. Udmurtia is the birthplace of the world-wide known Russian composer Peter Tchaikovsky who was born and spent most of his childhood in the city of Votkinsk; the legendary small arms designer Mikhail Kalashnikov lives and works in Izhevsk.           

For those interested in the economy, Udmurtia is the republic with an advanced oil industry, machine building, automobile and instrument making industries, wood-working, production of high quality steel, zirconium, communication systems, etc. Our products successfully compete at the local and world markets.

High scientific potential of the republic is maintained by five institutions of higher education, scientific and research institutes. Experts in culture and art will be keenly interested in the creative activity of our artists, composers, writers, professional and amateur ensembles, products by local craftsmen - weavers, carpet-makers, engravers.