Ukraine. Big giant coloring poster
Ukraine is independent! Ukraine is unconquered! Ukraine is a treasure trove of natural wonders and architectural monuments! You have an opportunity to make sure of it without even leaving your house. For this purpose the team of O’Kroshka has created a special coloring page that combined all famous places of our Motherland. Let’s visit each of these places. Our journey begins just now!
1. The Swallow’s Nest
Would you like to feel yourself a real knight? Leg it to the Swallow’s Nest then! This romantic castle, that is located on the 40m Aurora rock of the Ai-Todorskyi cape in the Gaspra hamlet, during its existence have had different owners and from the beginning it didn’t resemble a majestic structure. The building got its current look thanks to the Baron Shteingel, who was dealing with the Baku oil and loved to spend his vacation in Crimea. He is the one who has ordered from Leonid Sherwood, the famous engineer and sculptor, to build a gothic castle on the 10*20m ground. The building grew and outgrew the small plot of land bought by Shteingel, however, this only added elegancy to the building that seemed to have grown out of the rock.
2. Odesa Opera and Ballet Theatre
Who hasn’t heard about Odesa Opera and Ballet Theatre – one of the most famous opera theatres in Ukraine? This is the main jewel in a crown of gorgeous Odesa, centre of cultural life of the city and one of the most beautiful theatres in Europe. The author of the project is famous French architecture Toma de Tomon. The theatre was opened in 1810, however, there was fire in 1873 and the building was burned. The modern building was built in baroque style in 1887 by architectures Felner and Gelmer. The full renovation of the theatre was completed in 2007. The audience hall in style of late French rococo, as well as the unique acoustics of the horseshoe-shaped hall were the reason for “Forbes” magazine to include Odesa Opera and Ballet Theatre in the list of unusual Eastern European sights. Are you still here? Buy tickets for performances faster!
3. "Chornomorsk" trade port
A city within a city exists! You just need to visit “Chornomorsk” trade port, which is located in deep-water Sukhyi estuary. You will visit the territory of the important transport hub, which connects ways between Europe and Asia, North and South, Centre and Eastern Europe. Serious work is being done in here, and that is why “Chornomorsk” trade port has its own railway and highway infrastructure, and even its personal auxiliary fleet. Grab a vest, imagine yourself a real sailor and capture it with a photo for Instagram. Just don’t forget to monitor what is happening around you in order to not to find yourself among one of the cargos.
4. Askania-Nova
Askania-Nova is a unique biosphere national park located in Kherson region. Its founder, the German landlord Friedrich Falz-Fein, initially planned to create a sheep colony. However, soon enough he realized that a lot of rare birds and animals live on this territory and that is why he decided to arrange a national park there. Currently the area is divided into zoological and dendrological parks. In the first part you can see famous zebras, antelopes, Przewalski’s horses, mouflons, bison and other animals, and in the second – 13 species of plants listed in the Red Book of Ukraine.
5. "Donbass Arena"
There is not a single football fan in Ukraine who either has not visited or dreamed of visiting the modern Donbass Arena stadium. The stunning structure and design of the building was noted by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. And it is not surprising, as "Donbass Arena" is not an ordinary football field with seats for fans, but an entire architectural complex consisting of park, garden of stones, cascade of fountains, museum and the walk of fame of FC Shakhtar Donetsk. Although the stadium got significant destructions in 2014, we are sure that it will return under control of Ukraine soon enough together with the largest granite ball in the world. However…what prevents us from making a new ball – much better and bigger than the previous one?
6. Tarasova mountain
In order to think like an artist you need to visit places that inspired him. On of such places – Mount Chernecha in Kanev, that has been named Tarasova mountain after famous Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko has been buried there. Many tourists visit it every year, even though the way is not easy. They seek not only to pay tribute to Kobzar, but also to enjoy incredible landscape including the great "roaring" Dnipro.
7. Pysanka Museum
When you see this building in Kolomyia there will be no doubts about its purpose. After all, in the building that has shape of 13-meter Eastern egg, is located the only one in the world Museum of Eastern eggs. Its collection includes more than 12 000 works of this decorative and applied type of folk art. If you want to understand secrets of art, which has its origins in ancient times and introduces the idea of our ancestors about the world around us, you need to visit Pysanka Museum. We are sure that you will be inspired by the atmosphere, and the next Easter you will delight your family and guests with hand-painted Easter eggs.
8. Palanok Castle
No matter which road you head to Mukachevo, from everywhere you will see a majestic fortress towering over the city. Palanok Castle is a unique architectural monument whose history dates at least nine centuries back. The first mention about the fortress was found in documents of the XI century. The building itself is divided onto three terraces and three levels and located on the mountain of volcanic origin, however, among local people there is a legend that this mountain has been built manually by people in a terrible torment. If you are connoisseur of medieval architecture, centuries-old history and mystical stories, you should see this Transcarpathian miracle by yourself.
9. Chernivtsi National University
No! This is not Hogwarts and you will not find Harry Potter here. A huge castle that impresses with its beauty is Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University. The university is located in the residence of metropolitans of Bukovina and Dalmatia, which was built at the beginning of the XIX century according to the project of famous Czech architect Josif Glavka. Today university consists of two institutes and eleven faculties, and the architectural complex itself has been included in the UNESCO heritage list. Don’t you still know where to get higher education? Visit Chernivtsi then – selection for studying will be without sorting hat but the atmosphere will definitely not leave you indifferent.
10. Lviv City Hall
In order to fully enjoy the aesthetics of architecture and the cosiness Lviv streets, you need to look at the city from a bird’s-eye view. There are many options how to do this, but the most pleasant one is to enjoy the view from the observation deck of the Lviv City Hall – a 65-meters tower of the XIV century, in which Lviv City Council boards. Although this building used to be a prison and a pillar of shame was located next to it, today this place is one of the most popular tourists’ attractions in Lviv.
11. Olesko Castle
Olesky Castle is one of the most famous architectural monuments of Lviv region. Polish king of Rzeczpospolita Yan III Sobieski was born in this fortress. The first mentions of the castle appear in written sources date 1327. At that time the Olesko village was located on the border of Galicia and Volhynia, and after these lands have been conquest, it became a constant cause of military conflicts between Poland and Lithuania. The building itself has repeatedly suffered from destructions, fires, earthquakes and even works related to the search for jewels. The history of the castle don’t stop in here – until now there are live legends that Olesky Castle is full of ghosts. In particular, one of the eternal residents of the fortress is a Czech monk Jan Kasper who jumped into the well in front of thousand pilgrims. Maybe you will become the one who would either confirm or deny this fact?
12. Lubart’s Castle
This castle has become a hallmark of Lutsk long time ago, and we are sure that you have heard about tis fortress many times or seen it on photos or labels. The history of the building begins in 1340, when the son of the Lithuanian prince Lubart ascended the throne. He is the one who has issued an order to replace the wooden walls of the building with stone once. One of the legends tells that even today you can find hidden treasures in the castle. However, no one has yet managed to get them out of there. If your attempt to get rich also fails, take advantage of the opportunity to increase capital. To do this, take a 200-hryvnia bill and rub the image of Lutsk Castle on it when standing in front of the entrance tower. Don’t forget to inform us if the amount of money in your wallet has increased after the ritual! like this.
13. Tunnel of Love
Is it possible to have a full happy life without romance? No! Is there a perfect place that would symbolize love? Yes! This is the Tunnel of Love near Klevan town in Rivno region. Narrow railway tracks under green vault made of tree branches have conquered users of social networks long time ago with its beauty and mysteriously romantic atmosphere. Once you are here with your beloved one, you will definitely believe in the magic of the Tunnel of Love. There are many legends about this place and even more beliefs. In particular, people say that if lovers while walking through the tunnel would make one wish for two and then kiss, it will surely become true.
14. Balloon festival
Are you afraid of height and don’t know how to fight the fear? We have a decision – visit balloon festival in Kamianets-Podilskyi. Take it to the sky and enjoy an unforgettable view, get new impressions from the blue sky dotted with dozens of colourful balloons, take stunning photos. We are sure that your friends would envy you and you will feel a surge of new strength and energy. Adrenalin and aesthetics are a great pair!
15. Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle (Fortress)
When travelling to Podillia, don’t forget to visit Kamianets-Podilskyi Castle – a landmark of the city of the same name. According to one version the history of the castle goes back to the times of Kyivan Rus, when it looked as a small wooden building on the Smotrych river. According to another one – there are assumptions that the fortress was founded by Koriyatovych princes in the XIV century. Having witnessed more than one battle and have changed more than one owner, the fortress remained inapproachable to enemies, which was facilitated by the natural landscape. If you are found of medieval architecture, history and atmosphere, you should visit Kamianets-Podilskyi Fortress as soon as possible.
16. The Motherland Monument
This is not only one of the main symbols of Kyiv but also one of the highest monuments in the world as its height is 102m. The statue imprinted an eternal memory and reminder of the indomitability of Ukrainian people who has fought for the victory over the fascist invaders at the cost of their own lives. Decades have passed, however, the relevance and symbolism of the idea of the monument has not disappeared. The Motherland Monument is also unique in having several observation decks. If you are not afraid of heights and want to enjoy an unforgettable panorama of majestic Kyiv, make sure to plan a walk to the monument.
17. Memorial Sign to the Poltava Galushka
What are you capable of for your favourite dish? For example, Poltava residents immortalized traditional dish of their region – dumplings (galushku). A memorial sign in the form of a wooden half-bowl with dumplings made of concrete is located on the Cathedral Square on Ivanova Mountain, next to the restaurant of the same name, and is symbol of generosity and well-being. Here is a peace of advice – do not visit this location on an empty stomach, otherwise you will not be able to resist and will start trying the dish on the street directly.
18. The Ferris Wheel
Do you like to read books of Stephen King or to watch horror movies? We have an exclusive place for you – the Ferris wheel in Pripyat. The facility became a symbol not only of the city itself, but also of the entire Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. The Ferris wheel is located in the ex-theme park, even though it has never functioned there, as Chernobyl disaster happened just in few days before the park was supposed to open. Children’s laughter and their parent’s exited shouts could have been heard here today, however, physical and emotional emptiness will definitely touch your soul instead, and will remain in your thoughts for a long time.
19. Monument to Those Who Saved The World
The Chernobyl disaster left a deep mark in hearts and lives of Ukrainians. However, at the time of the tragedy, there were people, who by risking their own health, engaged in an unequal duel with disaster. Monument to Those Who Saved The World is a symbol of eternal memory and respect for heroes, their courage, indomitability and courage. To the heroes, who, by their actions reduced the scale of the disaster and won the battle with deadly fire.
20. Baturin
In 220km from Kyiv, in Chernihiv region, on the bank of the Seim River, is Baturin town located, which entered Ukrainian history as the first hetman capital. The city has a centuries-old history, as it was founded in XVII century. It was part of the Rzeczpospolita and was the residence of hetmans of the Left Bank Ukraine, in particular Ivan Mazepa, Pylyp Orlyk and Kyrylo Rozymovskyi. The last one has built a palace and a park complex in Baturin. Today the city inspires tourists with its history and hospitably invites to its famous Hetman’s Capital National Historical and Cultural Reserve.
21. Dniprovska HPP
One of the symbols of the glorious city Zaporizhzhia is Dniprovska HPP – the second largest hydroelectric power station in Ukraine, which once, at the time of its commissioning, was the most powerful HPP in Europe. The building itself reaches 1.3km and connects right and left banks of the city. Although, Dniprovska HPP is already a familiar industrial facility for most of the citizens of Zaporizhzhia, tourists and guests of the city will definitely be impressed by the grandeur of this architectural monument.
22. Khortytsia
Khortytsia is not just one of the largest river islands in Europe. This is a unique national park, a cultural and historical centre, which most Ukrainians associate with the history of Cossacks. After all, Khortytsia is considered the cradle of Zaporizhzhia Sich. In addition, on the island, which is about 30 thousand years old, you will find incredible nature and architecture. In particular, you will see mounds that are the same age as the Egyptian pyramids, as well as cromlechs – local ancient temples. Grease your forelocks, take out your sabers and let yourself to be absorbed in the spirit of Ukrainian Cossacks!
23. Kyivo-Pechers’ka Lavra
The famous Kyivo-Pechers’ka Lavra hosts thousands of believers from all over the world every year. This is a unique architectural monument with a centuries-old history, the beginning of which was given by two Orthodox monks. Men started to dig caves in the ground in order to not to communicate with the outside world and to have more chances to be reunited with God. Later on, more people were joining the monks and the caves transformed into a monastery. A quite and cozy park is spread around the Lavra building. Make sure to visit this great place as it is perfect for relaxation and your life rethinking.
24. Holy Dormition Pochaiv Lavra
The largest Orthodox temple complex of Ukraine, the Holy Dormition Pochaiv Lavra, is located in Pochaiv city of Ternopil region. Thousands of pilgrims come to this famous Orthodox shrine every year. According legends, its founders were monks of Kyivo-Pechers’ka Lavra who fled from the Tatar’s invasion in 1240. The building itself has survived through devastating wars, Turkish siege and sectarian strife. However, today the Holy Dormition Pochaiv Lavra is one of the main centres of the Christian faith in Ukraine. Make sure to come here if you are looking for spiritual and physical healing.
25. Radomysl Castle
In the small Radomysl town of Zhytomyr region there is one amazing architectural and museum complex - Radomysl Castle. A paper factory and an old mill, built in 1902, used to be built on the site of the castle. Renovation of the building started after the 2000s already, and nowadays Radomysl Castle includes several objects of interests to tourists, namely – the Museum of Ukrainian Home Icons, concert halls and a landscape park. Keep in mind that this place is perfect for a family weekend getaway!
26. Holy Trinity Cathedral
This bright temple with excellent acoustics is one of the most famous buildings in Sumy. Many parishioners, locals and tourists visit this place in order to enjoy its architecture and achieve a state of mental peace. Pavlo Kharitonenko, an outstanding countryman, philanthropist and entrepreneur, initiated the construction of a new church next to the already existing brick two-throne church. By the way, in this shrine you can see a three-meter sculpture of Andrew the Apostle with your own eyes.
27. Sampsoniivska churh
Sampsoniivska church is located exactly on the Poltava battlefield as a temple-monument that symbolises the victory over Swedish army. Money for the construction of the church were donated by Osyp Sudienko - a well-known Chernihiv landowner and philanthropist of the late XVIII – early XIX centuries. The building itself has survived through difficult times. In the 1930th, the Bolsheviks closed it, and during the post-war period it was used as a warehouse. Renovation of the Sampsoniivska church started only in 1988. Today, the building with a century-old history gladly welcomes all willing parishioners.
28. St. Nicholas Church
Attentive tourists, after arriving to Kamianskyi, will definitely visit St. Nicholas Church – a unique building of the XIX century, a Roman Catholic church built in the Neo-Gothic style. The building charms parishioners and visitors with its laconic architecture, clarity of lines and proportions. The history of the construction of the shrine is also very interesting, as the premise of it was the opening of the Dnipro manufacture in Kamianskyi. Since the majority of employees were Poles-Catholics, and a local prayer house was too small for such a large number of people, there was a need to build a new Catholic church. Let’s hope that you are an attentive tourist and will definitely find time to visit St. Nicholas Church.
29. Assumption Cathedral
Assumption Cathedral is one of the main attractions in Kharkiv. The building pleases the eye of not only locals but also tourists, which is not surprising, as the temple is a unique combination of baroque with elements of Ukrainian architectural traditions and classicism. The bell tower, located next to the Cathedral, also deserves attention. It reaches almost 90m and is the highest in Kharkiv. By the way, the Assumption Cathedral is now considered one of the oldest Orthodox churches in Kharkiv and belongs to the architectural monuments of the national significance.
30. Svyatohirsk State Historical and Architectural Reserve
At the bottom of the chalk mountains, which are also called the Saints, the Svyatohirsk State Historical and Architectural Reserve is located – a unique complex, which includes the Assumption Cathedral, the Church of the Intercession, St. Andrew’s Chapel on the chalk rock, a cave and the Cyril and Methodius stairs. Every year tens of thousands of tourists and pilgrims are coming here to enjoy nature and unique architecture, to be alone with God, to feel peace of mind and harmony. Let’s be honest, this is an incredible place that every Ukrainian should visit.
31. Holy Christ Christmas Cathedral
One of the important places in Severodonetsk in Luhansk region is the Holy Christ Christmas Cathedral. The temple itself was built and consecrated in 2000. As of today, the territory of the Cathedral includes the St. George’s Chapel, a memorial complex for participants in local conflicts and a park. Unfortunately, this year, as a result of missile attacks, the Holy Christ Christmas Cathedral, which became a bomb shelter for many citizens, was damaged. However, we know that the victory will be ours and very soon you will definitely visit this beautiful architectural monument!