Zhytomyr – Natural Gem Filled With Peaceful Parks and Exciting Nightlife
The city of Zhytomyr is the capital of the Zhytomyr Oblast. Zhytomyr covers an area of approximately 65 square kilometers and has an estimated population of 280 000 residents. It is a part of the Zhytomyr Oblast which has a history extending back to the ice age. Not only is it a significant transportation center that links the region to Kiev, but it holds important links to Ukraine’s turbulent past and the wars that ravaged the land.
Zhytomyr, it is believed, was established by Prince Zhytomyr sometime in the 8th century. The first date that refers to these times is 988, even though the first documents date the city at 1240. This was the year the Mongols attacked and besieged the city. The Grand Duchy of Lithuania took over Zhytomyr in 1320 and by 1569 it had changed hands to the Polish. Then, in 1920, Zhytomyr became part of the Soviet Union. During World War II Heinrich Himmler transformed Zhytomyr into his headquarters and the Jewish community suffered great losses during this time. Since 1991, however, it has become a part of Ukraine.
This breathtaking Ukrainian city that is surrounded by dense, ancient forests, calming rivers and is dotted with peaceful parks and squares, has seen many famous people in its time. Amongst these are names such as Polish composer Juliusz Zarebski; Sergei Korolev, who was the head of the Soviet Space Program; and writer Vladimir Korolenko.
Most visitors stay at Hotel Zhytomyr as it is close to many attractions, restaurants and the discos that form part of the city’s thrilling nightlife. Visitors can look forward to sights such as the Lenin Monument that is located in front of the Administration building, the Sergei Korolov Museum established in 1970, the Korolenko Museum founded in 1973, spectacular churches and relaxing parks.
The industries in Zhytomyr produce granite, metal work, musical instruments, furniture, linen and fibers. They also have lumber mills, food processing plants and mining quarries. The color of the granite that is found in Zhytomyr is so unique that 180 tons of the city’s granite was used in the construction of the Sergei Koroliev Monument near Kharkiv and also in the building of Lenin’s Mausoleum.
The city of Zhytomyr is truly a gem of the Zhytomyr Oblast that is rich in culture, history and natural beauty. Visitors will be fascinated by the splendor of the city and its buildings, and spellbound by its parks and forests.
