The reason is quickly given: Lviv from the first great world conflict until the 1990s had a troubled succession of conquerors. First Russians, then Austrians and then Poles until, in 1991, the long-awaited independence, together with the entire Ukrainian State, was achieved. This lively past has certainly given it an international aspect, starting from the different architectural styles that Lviv offers. Its cosmopolitan character is also strengthened by the large number of cities with which it has established a twinning relationship: Corning (United States), Whitstable (United Kingdom), Winnipeg (Canada), Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and other closer cities.
Once in Lviv one cannot escape a visit to the Old Town, located east of the modern center. Here you can admire what was once the heart of Lviv, namely the ploshcha Rynok with its fantastic mix of architectural styles: the central town hall dates back to the 19th century while the surrounding buildings to the 16th century, to Baroque and Renaissance art. Also present is the Gothic style with the Roman Catholic Cathedral, located southwest of the square, whose Boyim Chapel holds the most fascinating stone carvings in Lviv.
Further west there are neighborhoods in neoclassical, eclectic, and modern styles that arose in the 19th and 20th centuries. And it doesn’t end there: the city is also adorned with Art Déco, Art Nouveau, and Wiener Secession. At this point, can’t Lviv be defined as a museum-city? Certainly, if we also consider that the Ukrainian city hosts several art galleries, such as the Museum of Ukrainian Art, the National Museum, the Museum of History, the Pharmaceutical Museum and the Museum of Architecture and Folk Life (about 2 kilometers east of the Old Town).
The city of Lviv is also scattered here and there with many sculptures dedicated to important personalities, both Ukrainian and international. Once the tour of the city’s architectural beauties is over, it is recommended to relax mind and body in the charming Opera and Ballet Theater.
In 2012 Lviv hosted some matches of the European Football Championship.
