Bielsko-Biala is a regional capital town with a population of about 180 000, the seat of two regional authorities (poviats) and of two bishoprics: the Catholic Diocese of Bielsko-Zywiec and the Evangelic-Augsburg Diocese of Cieszyn. It has recently emerged as an academic centre having its own independent University of Bielsko-Biala and a few branches of other institutions and many private high schools. Known years ago as "The Town of a Hundred Industries", Bielsko-Biala proudly continues the economic traditions of the region, as an energetic centre of trade and industry in which medium and small businesses dominate.