Okhtyrka, city, northeastern Ukraine, on the Vorskla River. It was founded in 1641 as a fortress protecting the southern frontiers of Muscovy from raids of the Crimean Tatars. It was rebuilt in a different place in 1654 and incorporated in 1703. It has a notable cathedral (1758) designed by the imperial architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli, technical colleges, and a music school. Economic factors include engineering and light industries. Pop. (2001) 50,399; (2005 est.) 49,599.