Lviv

Lviv is the cultural capital of Ukraine. Lviv is a very beautiful city with its narrow medieval streets paved with stones, architectural decoration done in different styles preserved in its original form. Architecture of Lviv with its buildings, churches, monuments and relics make a magnificent atmosphere. Tourists can find in Lviv the most beautiful architecture in Eastern Europe. The central part of Lviv is included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage.

The history of Lviv is very rich and concerned with the history of many countries and empires. Lviv was founded in 1256 by Danylo Halytskyy, a prince of the Galicia-Volynia principality, in honor of his son Lev. Under the reign of Lev (1264-1301) Lviv became the capital city of the Galician-Volynian Kingdom. It is full of culture and historical significance to Ukrainian history.

Today Lviv is one of the biggest cities in Ukraine. It is the place where the history is united with the modern architecture. Lviv is an outstanding example of the fusion of the architectural and artistic traditions of Eastern Europe with those of Italy and Germany. Lviv’s historic churches, buildings and relics date from the 13th century. Its architecture reflects various European styles and periods. After the fires of 1527 and 1556 Lviv lost most of its gothic-style buildings but it retains many buildings in renaissance, baroque and the classic styles. Numerous sculptures commemorate many people and topics reflecting the rich history of Lviv.

The Old Town is an ancient historical part of the city. You can admire there lots of tourist attractions: Rynok Square where Lviv City Hall is situated, Chapel of the Boim family, Korniakt Palace, Armenian Cathedral, Orthodox Cathedral, Dominican Church of Corpus Christi, Latin Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Lviv Theatre of Opera and Ballet (Lviv Opera House) is very famous for its beauty. In 1903 the Lviv National Opera house, which at that time was called the City-Theatre, was opened emulating the famous Vienna State Opera house.

One of attractions that simply must not be missed is the Lviv High Castle. It was constructed in 1360 by King Kazimierz of Poland. High Castle in Lviv was a garrison, treasury and dungeon for centuries. The castle is believed to have many tunnels which still exit today underground. To reach Lviv High Castle, one would have to climb over 300 old steps on a winding metal staircase. The climb includes a walk on a narrow path which goes around the hill and takes you to the top of High Castle Lviv’s highest point.

Lviv is also an important education centre of Ukraine. It is home to three major universities and a number of smaller schools of higher education. Ivan Franko National University of Lviv is one of the oldest in Central Europe. It was founded as a Jesuit school in 1608.

Lviv astonishes with diversity of entertainments. They are not limited to walking tours around historical part of the city, excursions and visiting museums. With the coming of the night you can visit over 10 night clubs

Hospitability of Lviv’s citizens is well known all over the Ukraine. Lviv can boast of developed infrastructure – hotels, restaurants, cafes, coffee houses and bistros. The city is also known as a center of art, literature, music and theatre. Nowadays, the city cultural richness is presented by a big number of theaters, concert halls and many art actions. Temples, frescos, paintings, traditions, and festivals attract thousands of visitors. A sightseeing tour to Lviv will make you sure that it is really cultural capital of Ukraine. Lviv is very special and beautiful city and enjoyable to visit.