THE DUKE OF RICHELIEU

stands the statue of Armand du Plessis, duke of Richelieu, late nephew of the Cardinal of Richelieu, emigrated under the French Revolution and came to serve under Russian flags. In 1803, he was appointed governor of the region where Odessa was known as «the land of the new Russia». In 1814, he returned to France once the monarchy was returned. The Odessites dedicate a true cult to the Duke of Richelieu, because this governor managed to make Odessa a free port free from customs, which allowed a real expansion of trade. The port of Odessa then illustrated itself in the export of cereals and wheat in particular. The Odessites now worship the one they call "the Duke" and before whom they give appointments.