Ukraine – Potemkin Stairs in Odessa – It is the formal entrance into the city from the sea and the most famous symbol of Odessa. It was originally known as the ladder Richelieu. The top step is 12.5 meters wide, and the lowest step widens to 21.7 meters. Because of the different widths above and below, the stairs create the illusion of greater length. The beautiful landscaping along the sides provides a little shade for the challenging climb.