Ekaterinburg is a major city in the Ural Mountains of Russia, known for its rich history and cultural significance. Founded in 1723, it serves as the administrative center of Sverdlovsk Oblast and is one of the largest cities in the country. The city is named after Catherine the Great, reflecting its historical ties to the Russian Empire. Today, Ekaterinburg is an important industrial and cultural hub, featuring numerous museums, theaters, and educational institutions. It is also recognized for its role in the events surrounding the execution of the last Russian royal family, the Romanovs, in 1918, which has become a significant part of its historical narrative.