Makhachkala

Makhachkala previously known as Petrovskoye, and Petrovsk-Port, is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Dagestan in Russia. The city is located on the Caspian Sea. Makhachkala is an important economic, educational, scientific, and cultural center of the North Caucasus. The city is a major Russian seaport on the Caspian Sea, and a transport hub. The city is one of the fastest growing cities in Russia, and is currently going through a construction boom.

Symbols
The coat of arms and flag of Makhachkala were adopted on 15 December 2006. The coat of arms shows the city's historic fortress in silver on a red field, with flames coming from either tower and a solar symbol above. It is supported by a golden eagle on each side, a crown on top, and crossed anchors entangled with grapevines at the bottom.

Sports
Anzhi is a Russian football club from Makhachkala. Founded on May 12, 1991. Anzhi Arena is home of FC Anzhi Makhachkala.

Attractions
Grand Mosque of Makhachkala. The main mosque of the city was built in the image and likeness of the world famous Blue Mosque in Istanbul. The mosque was opened for believers in 1997.

Sulak canyon
A definite plus of Makhachkala for tourists is the proximity of the city to the canyons and mountains. The most popular among natural locations among travelers is the Sulak Canyon. It is the deepest canyon in Europe and one of the deepest canyons in the world.