The fate of this region of Ukraine is not similar to the histories of other regions — it was part of seven states, which could not but affect its architectural appearance and historical heritage. Chernivtsi region is one of the oldest in Ukraine, and every tourist who comes here can discover its numerous architectural and historical sights, beauty and natural wealth.
The territory of the future Chernivtsi region was inhabited by people since VI-II centuries B.C., as evidenced by the remains of Tripillya and Chernyakhivska cultures. There were also found here stands of primitive people from 15 to 40 thousand years old. The picturesque fertile lands in the valleys of the Dniester and Prut, the Pokut-Bukovyna Carpathians, covered with dense beech forests, have attracted people at all times.
The history of the region is associated with the Khotyn fortress founded in the XIII century on the bank of the Dniester. The fortress, originally built of wood at the command of Prince Vladimir and then built of stone during the reign of Danila Galitsky, became the first stone construction on the territory of present-day Ukraine, was a stronghold of development of adjacent territories, protected the land from nomadic raids. Khotyn fortress has survived to our time in excellent condition — today it is one of the main attractions of the region.
In the X-XII centuries the territory of the present Chernivtsi region was part of the Kievan Rus, then in the Galicia-Volyn principality, was under the rule of the Golden Horde, but in 1345 it was liberated by the Hungarian kingdom, to which it was transferred. From that moment the period that determined its originality and uniqueness begins.
Already in 1359, the Principality of Moldavia separated from Hungary and declared its territories called Bukovina because of the dense beech forests. In 1514 they were conquered by the Ottoman Empire, and after the war with Turkey Bukovina passed to Austria. The Austrian period became the time of prosperity and rapid development of the region. It lasted until 1918, then the Duchy of Bukovina was conquered by Romania. Only in 1940 the Red Army liberated the territories of Bukovina and Bessarabia, they were united and called Chernivtsi region.
Despite centuries of domination by other states in the region, its Ukrainian population managed to preserve its customs, language and traditions. Such an interesting fate has made this region truly unique in everything from history to architecture. And together with its natural attractions, this priceless heritage makes Chernivtsi region one of the most attractive for tourists.
The beauty and amazing atmosphere of the administrative center of the region delight all the guests of the city, the sights of Chernivtsi are incredibly diverse: next to the Baroque theater, built by Viennese architects, you can see a magnificent Armenian church, next to the wooden Russian church of 1607 — Synagogue of the early XVIII century. Such different sights are united by a common mood — this is by all standards a European city with narrow streets, sidewalks, beautiful old buildings.
Other sights of the region, famous far beyond its borders, are unique natural objects. Among them are the mysterious caves Balamutovska, Pionerka, Skitska, Ducha, Bukovinka and unique rock reliefs «Zakamenevshaya Bogachka» and «Black Div». The real richness of nature and its boundless imagination can be seen in the national parks. In Vizhnitsky you can admire the beauty of the low-altitude Carpathians, in Tsetsynsky — mighty beech forests with centuries-old trees, in the reserve «Kadubovska Wall» you can see a bizarre picture of river streams disappearing underground, and in the reserve «Bukovyna Waterfalls» you can admire another water miracle — magnificent waterfalls.
There are about 600 ponds and lakes on the territory of Chernivtsi region, near which there are tourist centers and recreation centers for all those who wish to enjoy fabulous views, clean mountain air, healing mineral waters and wonderful climate.
Every tourist who goes to Chernivtsi region will find something interesting for himself, whether it is unique natural phenomena, comfortable rest in nature, or architectural sights of venerable age and inexpressible beauty.