Before you plan a visit to Kyiv, Ukraine, you need to know a little bit about this city. Read on to learn more about its history, economy, and landmarks. Then you can make an informed decision about your travel plans. Let’s get started. Kyiv is one of the world’s largest cities, with an estimated 12 million people.
The city of Kyiv
The city of Kyiv, Ukraine is the capital and largest city in the country. It is situated in the north-central part of the country along the Dneper River. The city’s population was 2,962,180 at the beginning of the 21st century, making it the seventh-most populous city in Europe.
The city’s metro still runs on a reduced schedule, but taxi services, pharmacies, and most stores remain open. During the early months of the war, petrol shortages made it hard to get around, but by the end of the conflict, the city’s infrastructure remained intact.
Kyiv’s awe-inspiring golden domes are a trademark of Ukrainian architecture. Many of the city’s famous churches are topped with them. The city is also very green, with nearly half of its land being used for parks, gardens, and forests.
In the Second World War, Kyiv was the scene of major battles. The Soviet Red Army led a siege in the city, resulting in the largest siege in wartime history. Almost 4.5 lakh Red Army soldiers were trapped inside the city, suffering massive losses. Several lakh Russians and 35,000 Jews were murdered. The memorial to this massacre has been targeted by Russian forces during the current conflict in Ukraine.
The most significant danger for the city of Kyiv remains aerial bombardment. Although Kyiv has a good air defense system and an excellent record of intercepting Russian missiles, it’s still a possibility that an airstrike could occur. That will add to the tension and fear in the city.
Its historical significance
Historically, Kyiv has had a significant impact on Ukrainian culture. The city was founded in 482 ce, although archaeological evidence suggests that it was founded earlier, in the 6th or 7th century. The city was named for its oldest brother, Kyi, and a nearby stream was named for its sister, Lybed.
Historically, Kyiv was inhabited by the Indo-European Cimmerians, also known as the Kimmerians. The Kimmerians migrated to Ukraine from the Pontic Steppes, where they eventually fell to the Scythians. These people were famous for domesticating horses and developing mounted warfare.
Later, the city became the political and cultural center of eastern Europe. However, the city suffered many disasters. After the death of the Czar Volodymyr Monmakh, the city became divided into several competing city states. These rulers hoped to establish their capital in Kyiv. Later, the Turkic Tartars landed in the area. During the Great Northern War (1223), the Turkic Tartars defeated the Ukrainians and Polovtsi.
In December 2004, Ukraine’s government is unable to prevent protests by the opposition. The protests began before the president made his announcement about EU ties. Initially, the demonstrations were peaceful, but turned violent after the government moved to break up the crowd. The ensuing crackdown killed over 100 people. Eventually, Yanukovych and the opposition reached a compromise and planned presidential elections before the end of the year. After the crisis, the president fled to Russia, leaving behind his luxurious palace, which was seen by the protesters as proof of his corruption.
Its landmarks
Located in the north-central part of Ukraine, Kiev is the capital and most populous city. The population was 2,962,180 at the beginning of the 21st century, making it the seventh largest city in Europe. The Ukrainian capital is home to a number of historical buildings, museums, and monuments that make it a must-see destination.
The Monastery of the Caves is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features underground churches and other structures. Inside, visitors will find relics of saints and artifacts from different eras. The caves are illuminated by candlelight, and a tour guide will take you through the entire complex. Women must wear modest clothing and cover their heads.
Saint Sophia Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Kiev, dating back to the 10th century. It was the first Ukrainian heritage site to be listed by the World Heritage Committee. It is also the city’s oldest church, and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. It is one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The historical center of Kiev is the city’s most popular museum. The museum is located near the spot where Kyiv began, and features exhibits on all stages of the city’s history. Although many of the exhibits are in Ukrainian, there are English-language placards in each room that explain the period’s history.
Its culture
Ukrainian culture is based on values and respect for family, hospitality, and traditional gender roles. Traditionally, a family consists of two members, the father and mother. Both have equal roles and are expected to provide for the family. The role of a grandmother is very important and she usually lives with her grandchildren and helps to raise them. Children are the future, and grandparents strive to help them grow up as decent, responsible people.
The city’s artistic heritage dates back several centuries. Its history is rooted in ancient Greek and Russian culture. The country’s art scene was characterized by a number of distinct movements. Byzantine art, for example, embraced elements of Realism, Neoclassicism, and Symbolism. Byzantine art dominated Ukrainian art until the 16th century. Notable works of art in Kyiv include the mosaics and frescoes of Kyiv cathedral and icons from Galicia. Unfortunately, many outstanding Byzantine churches were destroyed during the Soviet era. However, international protests saved the St. Sophia cathedral from demolition.
Apart from the traditional holidays, Ukrainian culture celebrates several secular holidays. The country celebrates International Women’s Day on 8 March, when men and women give flowers and small gifts to their loved ones. The country also celebrates Victory Day on 9 May, which became a day of remembrance following World War II. Other notable days include Constitution Day and Independence Day.
