New Delhi: On August 24, Ukraine celebrates its Independence Day, a testament to its resilience and determination. Despite centuries of domination by various nations, including Russia, Poland, and Turkey, Ukraine’s history is a story of cultural and linguistic distinctiveness. This day holds great significance for Ukrainians as they honour their nation’s unwavering spirit to forge its own path. Let us look at some lesser-known facts about the country.
Lesser-known facts about Ukraine
Largest country in Europe
Ukraine, the largest country in Europe after Russia, is a land of fascinating facts and unique attractions. With a total area of 603.55 square km, the country encompasses a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Despite not being the most populous country in Europe, with approximately 43 million inhabitants, Ukraine’s multitude of intriguing features sets it apart and leaves visitors eager to explore more.
Second-deepest subway station in the world
One of Ukraine’s remarkable highlights is the Arsenalna metro station in Kyiv, which plunges to a depth of 105.5 meters, making it the second-deepest subway station in the world. To put this depth into perspective, the Statue of Liberty could fit inside with 12 meters to spare. Commuters navigating this station must endure the daunting descent and ascent through seemingly never-ending escalators daily.
World’s longest wind instrument
Another interesting fact about Ukraine is its claim to the world’s longest wind instrument, the Ukrainian trembita. This wooden trumpet, ranging from 2.5 to 8 meters in length with a diameter of approximately 30 mm, is revered in mountain villages. Historically used for communication, the trembita signalled significant events such as the start and end of the workday, childbirth, marriage, and impending danger.
Three monasteries with Lavra status
The country is also home to three monasteries with Lavra status, including the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, the Sviatogorsk Holy Dormition Lavra, and the Holy Dormition Lavra in Pochaev. The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, in particular, is considered the second-most important place of devotion for Orthodox Christians, and its architectural ensemble is designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
50 references in the Guinness Book of World Records
Ukraine has over 50 references in the Guinness Book of World Records, ranging from extraordinary sporting achievements to exceptional feats of artistry. Notably, Anatoly Boyko, known as the “Ukrainian Faberge”, set world records by intricately perforating 52,700 holes in a goose egg and 33,300 holes in a hen egg, transforming them into stunning works of art.
Wedding bands on the right hand
An unconventional tradition in Ukraine involves wearing wedding bands on the right hand rather than the left. This custom, rooted in the belief that the left hand is considered “unclean”, is another intriguing insight into Ukrainian culture and heritage.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Ukraine is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Kyiv’s Saint-Sophia Cathedral, Lviv’s historic centre, unique wooden churches in the Carpathians, and the surrounding beech forests. These sites offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Deadliest nuclear disaster in history – the Chernobyl Disaster
Ukraine is also marked by the site of the deadliest nuclear disaster in history – the Chernobyl Disaster. The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, which encompasses the area affected by the 1986 nuclear accident, contains several abandoned towns, most notably Pripyat, drawing interest from visitors worldwide despite the associated risks. Tours of the area, including the power plant, are available for those intrigued by this haunting piece of history.
World’s largest producer of sunflower seeds
Ukraine produces the most sunflower seeds in the world, followed by Russia. The US is the 10th largest producer of sunflower seeds, mainly from South Dakota and North Dakota. It is estimated that the total area used for sunflower farming in Ukraine could cover the entire land area of Slovenia.
The ‘Breadbasket Of Europe’
Ukraine has a lot of good farmland with fertile black soil for growing wheat and other food crops. Because of this, it has been called the “Breadbasket of Europe”. Ukraine is still one of the biggest wheat producers in the world.
Did you know Vyshyvanka is the name of the Ukrainian national costume? On the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day, let’s look at some lesser-known facts about the country. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
