On the Ukranian frontier, this region on the eastern flanks of the Carpathians comprises of a landscape of rolling hills and plateaus palnted with vineyards. It became a bastion of Orthodox Christianity after the fall of Byzantium, as is evident fom the monasteries dotting the region, most notably in the north (Voronet, Moldovita, Probota...). Moldavia retains its traditions, amply demonstrated by its villages, costume and parades. Its ancient capital, Iasi, is today seat of a university.