15 Interesting Facts About Ukraine

Introduction:

Ukraine is an eastern European country that is known for its rich history, traditions, and stunning landscapes. It is a fascinating place with secrets to unravel and mysteries to discover. Here are 15 interesting facts about Ukraine that you might not know.

Fact 1: Ukraine is the largest country in Europe

Ukraine is the largest country in Europe, taking up 603,550 square kilometers of land. This makes it larger than all of the other European countries combined.

Fact 2: Ukraine is rich in natural resources

Ukraine has a wide array of natural resources, including coal, iron ore, natural gas, and uranium. Ukraine is one of the largest exporters of grain and sunflower oil in the world.

Fact 3: Ukraine has the oldest democratic constitution in Europe

Ukraine adopted its current democratic constitution on June 28, 1996. This made it the first nation in Europe to do so on a national level. This constitution has since been amended several times, including most recently in 2019.

Fact 4: Ukraine is home to the deepest underground railway station in the world

The Arsenalna metro station in Kiev is the deepest metro station in the world, located at 105.5 meters below ground level. The station has been in operation since 1960 and is one of the busiest stations in Kiev.

Fact 5: Ukraine is the birthplace of the first computer

The first computer was invented in Ukraine by a team of scientists and engineers led by the renowned Leonid Kuzmin. This revolutionary machine was called the embryon and was unveiled in 1949.

Fact 6: Ukraine has the most castles in Europe

Ukraine has the highest number of castles in all of Europe, with over 600 still standing today. The Castle of the Cave in Kamyanets-Podilskyi is considered to be the most well-preserved castle in Ukraine.

Fact 7: Ukraine is home to the oldest tree in Europe

The wraith pine, located in a park in Ukraine’s Carpathian Mountains, is considered to be the oldest tree in Europe. It is estimated to be over 600 years old.

Fact 8: Ukraine is the birthplace of the beautiful Faberge eggs

The Faberge eggs, known for their intricate craftsmanship and incredible beauty, were actually created in Ukraine by Peter Carl Faberge. Today, Faberge eggs are highly sought after collectibles.

Fact 9: Ukraine has the world’s deepest lake

Located in the protected Carpathian Mountains, Lake Chornaya is the deepest lake in the world with depths reaching up to one thousand feet. The lake is also home to some of the world’s rarest fish species.

Fact 10: Ukraine is the birthplace of some of the world’s most famous painters

Ukrainian painters such as Marc Chagall, Wassily Kandinsky, and Kazimir Malevich are considered some of the most influential painters of the twentieth century. In fact, Malevich’s Black Square painting is considered one of the most iconic artworks in history.

Fact 11: Ukraine is home to the world’s longest suspension bridge

The Octyabrskyi Bridge in Ukraine is the longest suspension bridge in the world, spanning nearly four kilometers across the Dnieper River. This landmark is one of the most iconic symbols of the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv.

Fact 12: The Ukrainian flag is the only one in the world with two colors on both sides

The Ukrainian flag is the only one in the world with two colors on both sides. The flag features two equal-sized horizontal blue and yellow stripes. The color blue represents freedom, while the art of Ukrainian embroidery is depicted with the yellow color.

Fact 13: Ukraine has the world’s shortest escalator

The shortest escalator in the world is located in the Metro Underground Mall in Kyiv, Ukraine. It is only 63.5 centimeters tall and is designed for people with mobility difficulties.

Fact 14: Ukraine is the birthplace of the former heavyweight boxing champion Vitali Klitschko

Vitali Klitschko was a successful professional boxer and the former heavyweight champion of the world. He was born in Kiev, Ukraine and is still involved in the sport today.

Fact 15: Ukraine was the first nation to recognize Armenia as an independent state

In 1991, shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union, Ukraine was the first state to recognize Armenia as an independent nation. This recognition was essential in helping Armenia secure its sovereignty.

Conclusion

There you have it, 15 interesting facts about Ukraine. From its natural resources, to its cultural influencers, to its unique flag and landmarks, Ukraine is a fascinating place with a rich and complex history. Whether you are planning a trip to Ukraine, or just looking for interesting facts to learn, these facts have shown just how remarkable and unique the country truly is.