Top most interesting questions of foreigners about Ukraine: history, traditions and culture of the Ukrainian people

What do foreigners most often ask about Ukraine? What traditional dishes are worth trying? Find out more detailed answers to the most common questions to better understand Ukraine, its people and unique national heritage

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Ukraine is a country with a long history, distinctive culture and incredible gastronomic heritage. Foreigners who are just discovering this pearl of Eastern Europe often ask a lot of questions.

In this article, we have collected the most common questions that guests of our country often have and provided comprehensive answers to help them better understand Ukraine. Let's learn more together!

🌍 Want to discover Ukraine in a new way? From the mountainous landscapes of the Carpathians to the cozy streets of Lviv, from the blue lakes of the Shatsk National Park to the majestic Kyiv, Ukraine impresses with its beauty and history. Choose a tour and embark on an unforgettable journey!

Ukraine without secrets: history, culture and gastronomy that impress

📖 History

1. When and how did Ukraine emerge as a state?

Ukraine has its origins in Kievan Rus, a powerful medieval state centered in Kyiv that emerged in the ninth century. The name “Ukraine” was mentioned in the XII century, and the state gained independence in the modern sense in 1991 after the collapse of the USSR.

2. What was the role of Kievan Rus in European history?

Kievan Rus was one of the largest and most developed states in Europe at the time. It played an important role in the Christianization of the Slavs, and Prince Vladimir the Great converted to Christianity from Byzantium in 988.

3. Why was Ukraine ruled by other states for a long time?

Because of its geopolitical location, Ukraine has often been the scene of confrontations between great empires - Poland, Lithuania, the Ottoman Empire, the Russian Empire, and Austria-Hungary. For centuries, Ukrainians have been fighting for their autonomy.

4. Who are the Cossacks?

Cossacks were free warriors who lived in southern Ukraine, mainly in Zaporizhzhia. They became a symbol of the struggle for freedom, bravery, and independence. The Zaporozhian Sich is one of the brightest pages of Ukrainian history.

5. What was the reason for Euromaidan in 2013-2014?

Euromaidan started as a protest against the government's refusal to sign the Association Agreement with the EU, but quickly grew into a large-scale movement for democracy, dignity and independence. It ended in a change of government and became a turning point in modern Ukrainian history.

🎭 Culture

6. What language is spoken in Ukraine?

The official language is Ukrainian. However, in many regions, especially in the east and south, Russian is also spoken. In cities, you can also hear other languages - English, Hungarian, Romanian, Crimean Tatar.

7. Which holidays are the most important for Ukrainians?

The most favorite ones are Christmas, Easter, Independence Day (August 24), and Ivan Kupala. Each of them has its own traditions: from caroling to folk rituals with fire and water.

8. What is Ukrainian folklore famous for?

Ukrainian folklore is extremely rich: songs, embroidery, folk tales, and dumas. Vyshyvankas, traditional embroidered shirts that are a national symbol, are especially valued.

9. Which prominent Ukrainian figures are known in the world?

Among them are the poet Taras Shevchenko, composer Mykola Lysenko, aircraft designer Ihor Sikorsky, writer Lesia Ukrainka, physicist Ilya Mechnikov, and contemporary writer Oksana Zabuzhko.

10. Is contemporary art developed in Ukraine?

Yes! Ukraine has a strong contemporary art scene: from street art to conceptual installations. Kyiv, Lviv, and Kharkiv are centers of cultural life, where exhibitions, festivals, and concerts are often held.

Traveling in Ukraine is not just a change of locations, but an opportunity to feel the true atmosphere of the country. To make the trip comfortable and hassle-free, it is better to entrust the organization to professionals. Ready-made tours with carefully thought-out routes, comfortable transportation and the most interesting locations are a chance to see Ukraine without unnecessary planning.

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🍽️ Kitchen

11. What traditional dishes are worth trying?

Be sure to try borsch, dumplings, potato pancakes, stuffed cabbage, bacon, pickled vegetables, and uzvar. Each dish has its own unique history and flavor.

12. What is borsch and why is it considered a national dish?

Borsch is a thick vegetable soup with beets, often cooked with meat and served with sour cream. It is a symbol of Ukrainian hospitality and culinary skills.

13. Are there any unique Ukrainian drinks?

Yes! Traditional ones include uzvar (dried fruit compote), kvass, mead, and homemade liqueurs. In western Ukraine, jam made from cones or rowan is popular.

14. What gastronomic souvenirs are worth taking from Ukraine?

Lard, honey, jams, tinctures, horseradish, Ukrainian cheeses, and Lviv chocolate are all great gifts. Gingerbread, sausages and local wines are also popular.

15. Are farm products common in Ukraine?

Yes, especially in the markets. More and more Ukrainians appreciate environmentally friendly, organic products. You can often find farm cheeses, honey, vegetables, and meat from local farms.

Ukraine is not only a country with a rich history and culture, but also a modern state that continues to develop. It has its own traditions, rich cuisine and ancient customs.

Every year more and more foreigners discover the beauty and uniqueness of Ukrainian culture. If you have not been to Ukraine yet, be sure to visit this amazing country!💙💛

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