WOMAN OF SZUCSAWICZA.
Szucsawicza, pronounced Szutzawitza, is celebrated as the ancient residence of the princes of Moldavia. On a hill near the place are still to be seen the ruins of a strong castle which they inhabited. It seems to have been destroyed by violence, probably in one of the frequent incursions of the Turks and Poles into this province. Whether the destruction of this castle, or as some assert, the commands of the Porte, caused the princes of Moldavia to change their place of abode, we shall not pretend to determine. So much at any rate is certain, that, till the middle of the sixteenth century, the Woywodes or Hospodars of Moldavia resided at Szucsawicza; and consequently it was not till the latter half of that century that they removed from this place to Yassy.
On a gentle eminence near the town there is a convent of monks of St. Basil, belonging to the not united Greek church, which, in regard to the number of its members, predominates in the Bukowina. This edifice stands in a dreary, melancholy country, and makes an extraordinary impression on the traveller with its numerous towers, crosses, and bells, and the paintings on the outside of the church. It is surrounded by walls and towers, as a defence against sudden attacks of banditti; and owes its existence to the pious donations of several Moldavian princes who are interred in it.
The women of Szucsawicza wrap a handkerchief about the head, and wear trowsers, slippers turned up at the toe, and a jacket bordered with fur in the Greek fashion. In their manners and customs these people closely resemble the Moldavians.