Armenians began inhabiting Lviv in the 14th century and quickly established their own quarter, complete with a cathedral completed in 1370 and damaged in the fire of 1527. The original bell tower was erected in 1571, but was later toppled by the Turks during a siege. The 19th century version of the bell tower is a restoration of the original. In 1630 the main nave was extended and further rebuilt in 1723. The Cathedral owes most of its present day look to a remodeling carried out in the years 1908-1927. The building was blocked up during Soviet rule and used for storing plundered sacral art; it only reopened in 1992 in tandem with a visit of Pope John Paul II. The church’s courtyard is paved with headstones (they say it is good luck in Armenia to have many people walk over your grave.)