Zhytomyr city council

Zhytomyr is a city in the north of the western part of Ukraine. It is the administrative centre of the Zhytomyr province, and of the surrounding Zhytomyr district. Its population is 266,936. Zhytomyr is a major transportation hub. The city lies on a historic route linking the city of Kiev with the west through Brest. Zhytomyr is an important economic centre in the region. Enterprises in the city include glass, metal fabrication, electronic devices, screens, fabrics, furniture, shoes and others. In addition, a large pharmaceutical factory, and, since 1944, a confectionery factory, work in Zhytomyr. Zhytomyr also lies in a unique natural setting; all sides of the city are surrounded by ancient forests through which flow four rivers. Legend holds that Zhytomyr was established about 884 by Zhytomyr, prince of a Slavic tribe of Drevlians. This date, 884, is engraved in a large stone from the ice age times, standing on the hill where Zhytomyr was founded. Zhytomyr was one of the prominent cities of Kievan Rus.