Facts About the History of Ukraine

Daria Klemick and her family share a rich Ukrainian heritage. The cultural practices have been passed down from generation to generation including traditional foods, holiday celebrations, and dance. Ukraine is located along the eastern edge of Europe and borders the Black Sea. Through this blog, we will discuss some interesting facts about Ukraine that highlight its cultural and historical significance.

• Ukraine is the largest European state which is slightly smaller than the state of Texas. It is bordered by Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, Russia, and Belarus, with the Black Sea to the south. 

Map of Eastern Europe 

• The country’s capital is Kiev, which is the largest city in Ukraine. It is known as the educational, scientific, and cultural center of Eastern Europe. Kiev is full of historical landmarks what make the city a great travel destination.

City of Kiev, Ukraine 

• Ukraine was once the home of one of the oldest known civilizations, the Trypillian Civilization. This Neolithic culture dates back to between 5500 BCand 2750 BC.

Trypillian Civilization Recreation  

• The metro station in Kiev, Arsenalna Metro Station, is 105 meters deep making it the deepest metro station in the world. It was built in 1960 and rumored to have secret underground shelters for top political officials. 

Arsenalna Metro Station in Kiev, Ukraine

• Ukraine is one of the most highly educated countries in the world. With an international ranking of 4th, Ukrainians aged 15 and older have over a 99% literacy rate with about 70% of adults having completed secondary education or beyond. With 150 colleges and universities and 80 research facilities, education in Ukraine is held in high regard. 

National Technical University of Ukraine Kyiv Polytechnic Institute

• The classic and very popular song “Summertime” by George Gershwin was inspired by the Ukrainian lullaby “Oi Khodyt Son Kolo Vikon”, which translates to “The Dream Passes by the Windows”. Gershwin’s parents were from Ukraine and inspired him to write the song. This song has since gone on to become a classic and has been samples by many artists across almost all genres including the hit Sublime song “Doin’ Time”. 

George Gershwin writing piano music 

• On August 24th, Ukrainians celebrate their independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. This holiday is known as National Day. The day is full of parades, folk costumes and public displays of the Ukrainian flag. 

Ukraine National Day Celebration