Most of the inhabitants of the Danube Delta are Lipovans of Russian or Ukrainian origin.
Coming as refugees from Russia in the 18th century (during the reign of Empress Ekaterina II) and settling on the shores of Lake Golovi■a in the village of Unirea, (formerly known as Jurilovca), the Lipovans have always been known as skilled fishermen. Their traditional houses are long and low, with thatched roofs and a porch on the side nearest to the shore; these buildings are almost perfectly adapted to the landscape.
The Lipovans in the Delta have adhered closely to the Christian orthodox tradition, erecting, right in the middle of waters, worship places famous for their beauty and simplicity. This is the case of the church of Pocrova, built in the commune of Unirea in 1871.
