Lviv

Lviv is one of the most charming cities in Ukraine and Eastern Europe. It attracts thousands of tourists from other countries all over the world. This city is regarded to be historical and cultural center of Ukraine along with Kyiv. Lviv has changed a lot of names, starting with Lwow ending with Lemberg. This multicultural city has a long and eventful history and today its central zone is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The first record of Lviv appeared in the historical annals in 1256 when King Danylo Halytskyi founded the city and named it in honor of his son, Lev. During following 93 years the city was being the part of Red Ruthenia (Galicia) when in 1349 it was captured by Casimir III the Great and the following four centuries it belonged to the Kingdom of Poland (till 1772). The next century and a half was marked by Austrian presence – Lviv became a part of the Austrian Empire. Since 1918 the city was alternately captured by the Second Polish Republic, Soviet Union, Fascists Germany and finally became the part of Ukrainian Soviet Socialistic Republic in July 1944. Lviv played a great role in the process of gaining independence of Ukraine during 1990-1991.

Lviv has always been prosperous administrative, religious and industrial centre of the region since its foundation. Different ethnic communities, which inhabited the city for several centuries, left many samples of medieval architecture, along with beautiful Baroque buildings, mostly cathedrals and living houses.

New visitors to Lviv can take a guided tour that includes the main attractions of the city. During an unhurried walk through the city streets you will get a touch of the fascinating history of ancient and modern Lviv. The Uspenska complex, the Armenian Church complex, the Latin Metropolitan Cathedral, the fortified complex of the Bernardine Monastery, the Jesuit Church with a college, parts of the 14th-century defensive walls, beautiful Lower Castle and the well-known Ensemble of the Church of St. Castle – this is a short list of must-see places in Lviv.

Many tourists appreciate souvenir shops, different pubs, cafes and restaurants that are allocated in the historical centre of the city.

Visiting Lviv you should not expect the intact fineness of Krakow or Prague, and at the same time you won’t suffer crowds of tourists for that matter. The City of Sleeping Lions honors its history and appreciates its cozy quietness.