Chernovtsi was founded in the 12th c. as a fortress to protect the Galytske-Volyn principality from the nomadic tribes. It has a very rich history closely connected with the history of neighbouring Rumania and Moldavia. To-day it is an administrative, cultural and economic centre of Northern Bukovyna - the land of the beech woods picturesquely covering the Carpathian mountains. The population of the city is over 260,000. While touring the city you will be impressed by the harmoniously combined old and modern architecture. The tourists visit the former residence of the Bukovynian and Dolmatsian Bishops (1864-82, built by the Czech architect Y.Hlavka). It consists of three separate buildings, all the architectural details are characterised by perfection of form and structural harmony. During World War II the fire destroyed the right wing; Marble, Red and Blue halls suffered damages. The residence has been restored and to-day it houses the Yuriy Fedkovych University). Rather interesting are the buildings of the Philharmonic Concert Hall (1876) where Enrico Caruso (Italy) and Solomiya Krushelnytska (Ukraine) once sang, and the Armenian Church (1869-1975, architect Y.Hlavka). Since 1922 the church with its excellent acoustic hall has been used for concerts of classical and chamber music..