Ukreine

History of Kharkiv

Kharkiv's history starts in mid 17th century when the Kozaks created the Slobody settlements, and since then the city turned into one of the largest commercial and cultural centers in Ukraine with over 1.7 mln city-dwellers. Kharkiv is located at the confluence of Kharkiv, Lopan and Uda rivers.

Kharkiv was a cradle of Ukrainian intelligentsia, most of the first literary works in Ukrainian language were written and first performances of Ukrainian theatre were started here. From December 1919 to June 1934 Kharkiv was the capital of Soviet Ukraine. Ukrainian cultural renaissance commenced here in the years 1920-1930. As one of the main industrial and scientific centers of Ukraine Kharkiv is a home of many scientific discoveries that made revolutions in technology.

Present architectural pattern of Kharkiv has been developing for more than three centuries and has been influenced by various conditions of life, habits and traditions of Ukrainian people as well as of neighboring nations. The city has its own charm - narrow streets with old buildings of different architectural styles and small yards in the city downtown, huge and impressive main square, majestic cathedrals and small churches, metro (subway) many stations of which can be considered as a separate work of art. Kharkiv has 6 outstanding professional theatres, circus, several museums and many libraries. Kharkiv is a very green city, there are more than 100 parks on it's territory.

The local population is peaceful and most hospitable. Kharkiv is considered the safest and quietest among large cities in Ukraine.

Many foreigners come to Kharkiv for business and pleasure, or in search of beautiful Ukrainian wives. There are several Universities and many Institutes and colleges in Kharkiv. That's why Kharkiv is a city of 100.000 students and all foreigners are surprised to see so many young and beautiful girls on it's streets.