Saratov oblast, Russia (Saratovskaya)

The capital city of Saratov oblast: Saratov.

Saratov oblast overview

Saratov oblast (also spelled Saratovskaya) is a federal subject of Russian Federation, part of Volga Federal District. The administrative center of the region is Saratov city.

Saratov oblast population is 2,573,000 (2009); land area - 100,200 sq. km.

Saratov oblast flag

Saratov oblast coat of arms

Saratov oblast map, Russia

Saratov oblast features

Saratov oblast is located in the southeastern part of European Russia. Main river of the region is Volga dividing oblast into two parts. Main natural resources of Saratov oblast are oil, natural gas, shale oil, phosphorites, various sands and stones.

Saratov oblast largest cities and towns are Saratov (841,000), Engels (201,000), Balakovo (200,000), Balashov (93,000), Volsk (69,000). About 74% of Saratov region population is urban, 86% Russians. There are 38 administrative districts, 1805 villages and 18 cities and towns in Saratov oblast.

Saratov oblast history

Saratov guberniya of Russian Empire was formed in 1797. In 1936 the region was called Saratov oblast. The current borders of the region were finalized in 1957.

Saratov oblast economy

Saratov oblast is on the leading positions in Volga region by industrial output. The industry of Saratov region includes about 2,000 large and medium sized enterprises. Trolleybuses (Trolza), railway machines (Engels Plant of Transportation Machinery), fridges, liquid fuel and various oil refinery products (Saratov Oil Refinery), mineral fertilizers are produced in Saratov oblast.

Balakov Nuclear Power Station and Saratov Hydro Power Station are situated on the territory of the region. Also Saratov oblast has developed transport system (railways and highways). There are three Russian Air Force bases and Taman rocket division of Russian Rocket Forces on the territory of Saratov oblast.