Chernivitsi – A Charming Historical City
Chernivitsi, located in western
Ukraine and also called as little Vienna for its pleasant feel, is popular for its several historical monuments and architectures.
History
The city’s history goes back to the Neolithic age as per the archaeological findings done recently. It was inhabited by Slavic tribes and Tiverian peoples during the 2nd-5th and 9th-11th centuries respectively. It was a part of the Moldavian principality under the Ottomans between the 14th and 18th centuries. Until independence, the city saw its controllers changing from the Austrians, Romanians and Soviet Russians.
Popular Places and Attractions
There is a heavy Austrian influence in Chernivitsi’s architecture. Some of its major architectural attractions are Chernovitsi Drama Theatre, University with its garden and churches, Regional Fine Arts Museum and the Culture Palace to name a few. The University was Metropolitans of Bukovyna’s residence during the 19th century. It is made up of three distinct buildings. The wounds of World War II can still be seen in the halls of the right wing although much of the damage has been restored today. The Bucovyna Diaspora Museum showcases the emigration history, activities and life of Bucovynians.
Some other popular attractions in and around the city are the Kamenets Podilskiy Castle, Khotynska Fortress, Heritage Museum, Victory Monument, Justice Palace, Assumption Church, Railway Station, New Synagogue, Central Square, Red Army Monument, the twisted towers at Saint Nikolay Orthodox Church, Town Hall, Ethnological Museum, Municipal Museum, Holy Spirit Cathedral, Local Lore Musuem, Arts Museum and a couple of Literary Memorial Museums.
Getting Around
Buses, trams, marshrutkas (minibuses) and taxis are the various modes of transportation available for getting around the city, a
guide to smooth travel is to keep some change handy to pay for your fares.
Places for Entertainment
Clubs, parks, cinemas, libraries, theatres, restaurants, bars and coffee houses are the usual places for entertainment in Chernivitsi. Trips can be arranged to the Carpathians whose attractions include hiking at Nimchich Pass and admiring the beautiful flowers, berries and mushrooms on the way. The Kosiv market can also be toured for its souvenirs of tapestry, woodcarving and embroidery. The Olga Kobylyanska Drama and Music Theatre with its Greek mythology sculptural compositions and also the Philharmonic Concert Hall are important centres where the city’s rich culture can be understood in an artful manner. The excellent acoustics of the Armenian Church makes it host several chamber music and classical music concerts.
Accommodation
Youth hostels,
budget hotels,
bed & breakfast, motels,
guesthouse, dormitories, church houses and apartments are available for looking after tourist accommodation requirements.
Currency
The Hryvnia (UAH) is the official currency of Ukraine. The March 2009 exchange rate stands at 8 UAH for every 1 USD, its best to check the
news and internet for the latest exchange rates. The acceptability of credit cards and traveller’s cheques is also reasonable but carrying along hard local currency is suggested. Many local commercial establishments might accept payment in foreign currency, especially U.S Dollar and Euro, but this is barred by law.
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