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88-614: The Metropolitan Palace , also known as Greek Catholic Archbishops Palace , opposite St. George's Cathedral in Lviv , Ukraine, has been the principal residence of the Metropolitans of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church since the 16th century. The current building was erected in 1761-62 to Clement Fessinger's designs and displays traits of the transition from Baroque to Neo-Classical . The façade bears

176-532: A belfry , the Baroque Metropolitan Palace and chapter house, as well as a garden enclosed behind two gates. 49°50′19.48″N 24°0′46.19″E  /  49.8387444°N 24.0128306°E  / 49.8387444; 24.0128306 History of Ukraine#Independence The history of Ukraine spans thousands of years, rooted in the Pontic steppe , a region central to the spread of

264-601: A plaque in memory of Archbishop Andrey Sheptytsky . On the west side of the palace extends an old flower garden . Pope John Paul II stayed at the palace during his 2001 visit to Ukraine. This Ukrainian Greek Catholicism -related article is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . This article about a Ukrainian building or structure is a stub . You can help Misplaced Pages by expanding it . St. George%27s Cathedral, Lviv A church has stood on St. George Hill ( Ukrainian : Святоюрська гора , translit. sviatoyurs'ka hora ) since around 1280, dating back to

352-614: A Greco-Scythian polity formed in this context, became a regional power, blending Greek traditions with local elements. It thrived until the 4th century AD, when invasions by the Goths and later the Huns disrupted its stability. The Roman Empire , expanding its reach into the region, briefly annexed the Bosporan Kingdom from 62 to 68 AD under Emperor Nero . During this period, the reigning Bosporan king , Tiberius Julius Cotys I ,

440-687: A complex social structure, with local chieftains leading tribal groups. They also practiced paganism , with a pantheon of gods tied to nature, such as Perun (god of thunder) and Dazhbog (sun god). By the time of the Antes Union's decline, the cultural and religious practices of the Slavs had already begun to influence neighboring peoples, laying the groundwork for the Slavic cultural sphere that would emerge later in Eastern and Southeastern Europe . In

528-521: A devastating raid by the Pannonian Avars , led to a fragmentation of the early Slavic federation. Despite this, many of these tribes maintained their distinct identities until the formation of larger political entities in the early second millennium, such as Kievan Rus' , which began to consolidate Slavic lands. The Early Slavs were primarily agrarian, relying on subsistence farming, and lived in semi-nomadic communities. Over time, they developed

616-536: A focus on fertility cults, as evidenced by numerous figurines and symbolic artifacts. The Cucuteni-Trypillian culture began to decline around 3000 BC, possibly due to environmental changes, resource depletion, or pressures from neighboring steppe cultures. The Sredny Stog culture (ca. 4500–3500 BC) emerged to the east of the Cucuteni-Trypillian zone, on the Pontic-Caspian steppe . It marked

704-508: A semi- nomadic lifestyle. They utilized copper and bronze tools and weapons , demonstrating early metallurgical skills. Many scholars associate the Yamna culture with Proto-Indo-European speakers , as their migrations and cultural diffusion likely influenced vast areas of Europe and Asia . Following the Yamna culture, the Catacomb culture (ca. 2800–2200 BC) emerged, encompassing much of

792-547: A sophisticated hunter-gatherer culture, known for their blade-based lithic technologies and artistic expression. The region likely served as a vital hub for human activity, offering both shelter and access to diverse ecological resources. The archaeological record in Ukraine highlights the area's importance as a crossroads for early human populations migrating through Europe. From the earliest stone tools to evidence of complex social structures and artistic traditions, Ukraine offers

880-623: A time when the area was still part of the Principality of Halych-Volhynia . After the original wooden church and the fortress it was situated in were destroyed by King Casimir III of Poland in 1340, a four-column Byzantine basilica was constructed for the local Eastern Orthodox Church . In July 1700, the Act of Unification of the Lviv archeparchy with the Holy See (the Bishop of Rome –

968-468: A transitional phase between the Neolithic and the emergence of the early Bronze Age steppe cultures. This culture is among the earliest to show evidence of horse domestication , which became a defining feature of steppe societies. Early indications of mound burial (kurgans) began to appear, reflecting evolving social hierarchies and ritual practices. The Sredny Stog culture played a significant role in

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1056-457: A valuable lens into the evolution and adaptation of early humans over hundreds of thousands of years. The Cucuteni-Trypillian culture (ca. 4,500–3,000 BC), centered in modern-day Romania , Moldova , and Ukraine , represents one of the most advanced Neolithic civilizations in Europe. These people were known for their impressive settlements, some of which were among the largest in the world at

1144-687: Is often regarded as the golden age of Kievan Rus'. One of Yaroslav's key achievements was his decisive defeat of the Pechenegs , who had long been a threat to the state. To commemorate this victory, Yaroslav ordered the construction of the Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kiev, a structure that still stands as a symbol of this prosperous era. He also founded the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra and supported the election of Hilarion of Kiev as

1232-570: Is remembered as one of Kievan Rus' most capable leaders. He ascended the throne amid internal strife and external threats, yet worked diligently to stabilize the fragmented territories of Rus'. Monomakh's reign achieved relative unity through efforts to reduce feuds among princes and reinforce central authority. His military successes, particularly against the Polovtsy (Cumans), secured the region's borders. Diplomatically, he forged strong ties with Europe, notably through his marriage to Gytha of Wessex ,

1320-550: Is the Tale of Bygone Years (or Primary Chronicle ), written no earlier than the 11th century. In its 'legendary' part, it narrates the Rus' raid on Constantinople and the formation of a state centered in Kiev during the second half of the 9th century. The Chronicle, in particular, mentions the names of the leaders of the raid on Constantinople — Askold and Dir — and calls them retainers of

1408-620: Is the discovery of a dwelling constructed from mammoth bones , a testament to Neanderthal ingenuity and adaptation to harsh Ice Age environments. These structures highlight their ability to organize resources and create durable shelters. The Crimean Mountains hold significant evidence of early modern humans ( Homo sapiens ) during the Upper Paleolithic period. The Buran-Kaya cave sites have yielded artifacts, such as tools and ornaments, along with skeletal remains, dating to approximately 32,000 BC. These Gravettian settlements reflect

1496-691: The Balkans . His primary goal was to create a lasting base in Bulgaria , strengthening his strategic position in southeastern Europe. However, his ambitions in the Balkans were thwarted after a Byzantine counterattack. In 972, while returning from his Balkan campaign, Sviatoslav was ambushed and killed by the Pechenegs near the Dnieper River. After Sviatoslav's death, a power struggle ensued among his sons. Yaropolk , Sviatoslav's eldest son, assumed

1584-545: The Chalcolithic and Bronze Ages , Indo-European migrations , and domestication of the horse . In antiquity, the area was part of Scythia and later inhabited by Goths , Huns , and Slavic tribes . Southern Ukraine was colonized by the Greeks and Romans , leaving a significant cultural heritage. Ukraine enters into written history with the establishment of the medieval state of Kievan Rus' . In Dnieper Ukraine ,

1672-583: The Frankish chronicle Annals of St. Bertin , where members of an embassy from the north, arriving in the Byzantine Empire , referred to themselves as Rus'. The second notable mention of the Rus' occurred in 860, when they launched a bold and unexpected naval raid on Constantinople from the territory around present-day Kiev. Commanding a fleet across the Black Sea , the Rus' forces struck at

1760-705: The Khazars , another semi-nomadic people from Central Asia. The Khazars founded the Khazar Khaganate , a powerful and influential state near the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus . The Khaganate's territory expanded to include parts of modern-day western Kazakhstan , eastern Ukraine , southern Russia , and northern Azerbaijan . The Khazars were noted for their religious tolerance and political pragmatism, famously adopting Judaism as their state religion in

1848-619: The Kyiv Metropolitan , marking a significant step in the independence of the Kievan church. Yaroslav's reign was also notable for the introduction of the first written legal code — Rus' Truth , which established a foundation for legal governance in the state. Additionally, Yaroslav engaged in extensive marriage diplomacy, forming alliances by arranging marriages between his daughters and European royalty. However, after Yaroslav's death, Kievan Rus' began to fragment, as his sons divided

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1936-704: The Ottoman Empire , major regional power in and around Black Sea , which also had some of its own directly-administrated areas as well. In the 17th century, the Cossack rebellion led by Bohdan Khmelnytsky marked a turning point in the Ukraine' history. The uprising , which began in 1648, was fueled by grievances against the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth 's nobility, religious tensions, and social inequalities. This rebellion led to

2024-574: The Pope ) was proclaimed in this older version of St. George's when Bishop Joseph Shumlanskyi openly embraced the Union of Brest (1596). Construction of the present Cathedral was started in 1746 by Metropolitan Athanasius Szeptycki and finished in 1762 by Leo Szeptycki . Following the necessity of transferring the seat of the metropolitan of the Church to Lviv in the 1800s, St. George's Cathedral became

2112-466: The Radhanite Jews, to operate along vast routes that stretched from China to the Byzantine Empire . These trade routes facilitated the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas across Eurasia . The origins of the Kievan state and the etymology of its name, Rus', continue to be subjects of scholarly debate. One theory, often called the ' Norman theory ', posits that the term Rus' originated from

2200-537: The Scandinavian Varangians , who were active in trade and military ventures across Eastern Europe in the early medieval period. Proponents of this theory argue that the Varangians, also known as the Rus', initially brought a political and military influence that shaped the emerging state structure, with the term Rus' eventually becoming synonymous with the region and its people. In contrast,

2288-576: The Serpent's Walls , which stretched for 1,000 kilometers, safeguarding Kievan Rus' from external threats. Despite these accomplishments, Kievan Rus' entered a turbulent period of internal strife following Vladimir's death in 1015, as his sons fought for control. This era of internecine conflict lasted until 1019, when Yaroslav the Wise emerged victorious and assumed the throne. Ruling jointly with his brother Mstislav until 1036, Yaroslav presided over what

2376-594: The Ukrainians , including the Polans , Severians , Drevlians , White Croats , Dulebes , Ulichs , and Tivertsi . The migration of these tribes from Ukraine throughout the Balkans contributed to the foundation of several South Slavic nations, while northern migrations, reaching as far as Lake Ilmen , gave rise to the Ilmen Slavs , Krivichs , and Radimichs . The collapse of the Antes Union in 602, following

2464-418: The ' anti-Norman theory ' suggests that the term Rus' has indigenous Slavic or Baltic roots, developing independently of Scandinavian influence. Advocates of this theory assert that Eastern Slavic tribes already had established political and social frameworks before any contact with the Varangians, and that these tribes were naturally progressing toward political consolidation. According to this perspective,

2552-804: The 370s with the arrival of the Huns , a nomadic group from Central Asia . The Huns were powerful warriors and ultimately brought the Ostrogoths under their control, leading to major shifts in Gothic society and governance. To the north of the Ostrogothic territory was the Kyiv culture , a Slavic archaeological culture that thrived from the 2nd to the 5th centuries AD. As the Huns expanded their influence across Eastern Europe, this culture also came under threat. Many Slavic and other local groups were affected by

2640-573: The 7th century, the territory of modern Ukraine was at the core of the state of the Bulgars , often referred to as Old Great Bulgaria . This state, with its capital at Phanagoria (located in what is now the Taman Peninsula), controlled a significant part of the northern Black Sea region. The Bulgars, a semi- nomadic people from Central Asia , were known for their sophisticated society, military organization, and far-reaching influence. By

2728-498: The 8th century, although Christianity , Islam , and other faiths were also practiced within their borders. The Khazars played a key role in the politics and economy of Eastern Europe and the Pontic-Caspian steppe . Their control over trade routes contributed to the establishment of the Pax Khazarica , a period of relative peace and stability that fostered safe long-distance trade. This stability allowed traders, including

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2816-690: The Early Slavs remain uncertain, though several theories suggest they may have originated near the Polesia region, a marshy area between modern-day Belarus and Ukraine . This period marks a transition from the Kyiv culture to the establishment of Slavic tribes across Eastern Europe. In the 5th and 6th centuries, the Antes Union (a tribal confederation) is generally believed to have been situated in present-day Ukraine. The Antes are considered ancestors of several Slavic tribes that would later form

2904-583: The East Slavic tribe of the Polans , inhabitants of the Middle Dnieper region, adopted the name Rus' for their land and were regarded as the most advanced among the East Slavs. Thus, they played a central role in forming a new tribal union centered around Kiev. From the first half of the 10th century, the first confirmed ruler of the Kievan state, as documented in foreign sources, was Igor

2992-664: The Greeks '. A significant section of this route ran along the Dnieper River , and Kiev was an important transshipment point, allowing control over trade along the Dnieper, Pripyat , and Desna rivers. The Middle Dnieper region began to serve as a political, cultural, and economic center for the East Slavic world. It eventually came to be known as the Rus' land in the narrow sense of this term. According to The Tale of Bygone Years ,

3080-641: The Hunnic invasions, resulting in changes in settlement patterns and local governance. In 454 AD, a decisive battle known as the Battle of Nedao marked a turning point. The Ostrogoths, along with other Germanic tribes, rebelled against the Huns and contributed to their defeat. Following this victory, the Ostrogoths were permitted by the Romans to settle in Pannonia (modern-day Hungary ), marking their departure from

3168-638: The Middle Paleolithic period (approximately 45,000–43,000 BC), provide significant evidence of Neanderthal activity. Molodova is known for its rich cultural layers attributed to the Mousterian tradition, showcasing the use of fire, mammoth bone processing, and possible construction of primitive shelters. These sites, located along the Dniester River , are particularly notable for their evidence of advanced behavior. One remarkable feature

3256-574: The Old , whom the Primary Chronicle identifies as a prince. Information in the Chronicle regarding governance during this period is considered relatively reliable. The princely retinue played a significant role in governance, accompanying rulers on campaigns and collecting tribute from subjugated local Slavic tribes . The collected tribute (such as furs , honey , hides , wax , and slaves )

3344-723: The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Muscovy. The Cossack Hetmanate 's autonomy was progressively eroded, culminating in its abolition by Catherine the Great in the late 18th century. Simultaneously, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth's internal decline and external pressures from neighboring powers facilitated the partitions of Poland . These partitions allowed the Russian Empire to incorporate vast Ukrainian territories, including those previously under Polish control. Western Ukraine, however, came under

3432-551: The Scandinavian Rurik dynasty . According to the Chronicle, a representative of this dynasty, Oleg the Wise , allegedly came to Kiev from Novgorod in 882, killed Askold and Dir, and took control of the Kiev state. This narrative contains chronological errors—for example, it incorrectly dates the Constantinople raid to 867—and lacks corroboration from archaeological evidence, which suggests that Novgorod itself

3520-577: The Soviet Union. The Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) fought for independence, though parts of Ukrainian society also collaborated with occupying forces. Post-war, Soviet control was reestablished, and Crimea was transferred to Ukraine in 1954. Ukraine became independent when the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991. This started a period of transition to a market economy , in which Ukraine suffered an eight-year recession . Subsequently however,

3608-700: The UGCC), concealed in the church loft, witnessed the decision to join the Metropolinate of Halychyna with the Russian Orthodox Church , along with the rest the catholic parishes across Soviet Ukraine . The Cathedral was reconsecrated as Saint Yury's , and became the mother church of the Lvіv-Ternopіl diocese. The UGCC reemerged in 1989, when it was recognized by the Soviet authorities in

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3696-426: The Ukrainian lands. Meanwhile, the Black Sea ’s northeastern shores were dotted with ancient Greek colonies , such as Tyras , Pontic Olbia , and Hermonassa . Established as early as the 6th century BC, these colonies developed into important cultural and trading centers under Roman and later Byzantine rule. These cities continued to thrive until the 6th century AD, when Byzantine influence began to wane. In

3784-662: The Wise . Kievan Rus' started to disintegrate in High Middle Ages , with Kievan monarchs competing and fighting over the throne in the core Rus' land, while experiencing Turkic raids from Southern Ukraine . In 13th century Kievan Rus' was destroyed by the Mongol invasion , leaving its core in Dnieper Ukraine absolutely devastated, but the Kingdom of Ruthenia (Galicia-Volhynia) succeeded Kievan Rus' under King Daniel . In 14th and 15th centuries, majority of Ukrainian territories became part of Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Ruthenia and Samogitia , while Galicia and Zakarpattia came under Polish and Hungarian rule. Lithuania kept

3872-706: The Wise's death, his sons divided the lands, which significantly accelerated political fragmentation. Although his succession plan aimed to prevent conflict, it ultimately sowed the seeds of feudal division. The Council of Liubech , convened by several princes, including Vladimir Monomakh , sought to settle disputes and clarify the inheritance of principalities. This agreement formalized Kievan Rus's division into regional hereditary principalities, thereby legalizing fragmentation. The adage "Let everyone hold his own" emerged, signifying that each prince would govern his own territory without interference from others. Vladimir Monomakh, who served as Grand Prince of Kiev from 1113 to 1125,

3960-404: The area of modern Ukraine , which they referred to as Oium . This region is linked to the archaeological Chernyakhov culture , known for its unique mix of local and Gothic influences. The Goths in this region soon divided into two main groups: the Visigoths (Western Goths) and the Ostrogoths (Eastern Goths). The Ostrogoths established a stronghold in Ukraine but faced significant changes in

4048-508: The authority of the Grand Prince of Kiev was notably weakening. Regional princes, bolstered by local resources and armies, began to resist central control. Additionally, the vast geography and economic diversity of Rus' impeded unity, as various regions developed their own trade routes and systems. External threats from nomadic groups, such as the Pechenegs and Polovtsy ( Cumans ), further exacerbated regionalism, compelling local rulers to focus on defending their territories. After Yaroslav

4136-406: The behaviors and adaptive strategies of early members of the genus Homo , likely Homo erectus , as they expanded into the continent during the Lower Paleolithic period. The Neanderthal presence in Ukraine is well-documented through archaeological findings, particularly at the Molodova sites, which are located in the modern-day Chernivtsi region in southwestern Ukraine. These sites, dating to

4224-446: The cathedral took place in 1996 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Union of Brest . However, restoration of the cathedral's grounds is ongoing. In August 2005, the seat of the Major Archbishop of the UGCC was moved to Kyiv , the nation's capital, changing from The Major Archbishop of Lviv to The Major Archbishop of Kyiv-Halych . However, the cathedral remains one of the most important churches in Ukraine, and functions as

4312-458: The central church of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Lviv . Designed by architect Bernard Meretyn and sculptor Johann Georg Pinsel , St. George's Cathedral reflects both Western influences and the traditions of Ukrainian church construction. An expressive statue of St. George the Dragon-slayer , by Pinsel, stands in the church attic. Pinsel's hands also created the stone images of Pope St. Leo and St. Athanasius who stand on guard over

4400-413: The church portal "warning with their stern look about their readiness to fight against anyone not showing enough venerability." In contrast, the architecture of the courtyard has a more soothing effect on visitors. An icon for the Church parish by Luka Dolynskyi depicts the banishment of merchants from the Temple . Another icon, Apostles , conveys a very strong expression of pain and desperate begging of

4488-428: The conflict. However, after Oleg's death, he returned with a Varangian army. By 980, Vladimir had defeated Yaropolk and consolidated power, becoming the sole ruler of Kievan Rus'. During the reign of Vladimir the Great, Kievan Rus' expanded significantly, notably through the conquest and annexation of Red Ruthenia , Transcarpathia , and Korsun . These territorial gains made Kievan Rus' the largest state in Europe at

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4576-426: The creation of the Cossack Hetmanate , a semi-autonomous polity in central and eastern Ukraine. In 1654, the Cossack Hetmanate allied with the Tsardom of Moscow through the Treaty of Pereyaslav . The nature of this alliance has been widely debated by historians. Some argue that it established a protectorate relationship, with Muscovy offering military support in exchange for loyalty, while others believe it symbolized

4664-418: The daughter of English King Harold II . As an educated ruler, Monomakh authored The Instruction of Vladimir Monomakh , offering insights on governance, morality, and leadership. His reign is often regarded as one of the last periods of unity before Rus' descended further into division. Monomakh's son, Mstislav the Great , preserved some unity during his reign from 1125 to 1132. However, following his death,

4752-405: The early 6th century AD, the Bosporan Kingdom on the Crimean Peninsula came under the rule of a Hunnic king named Gordas . Gordas maintained friendly relations with the Byzantine emperor Justinian I , but this ended when Gordas was killed in a local revolt around 527 AD. Justinian seized the opportunity to intervene, occupying the Bosporan Kingdom and further extending Byzantine influence over

4840-467: The eastern territories became the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic (part of the USSR ), while western Ukraine was absorbed by Poland, Romania , and Czechoslovakia . Under Soviet rule, initial policies of Ukrainianization gave way to oppressive Russification . The Holodomor famine of 1932–1933, a man-made disaster, caused the deaths of 4-5 millions Ukrainians. During World War II , Ukraine endured brutal occupations by both Nazi Germany and

4928-521: The economy experienced a high increase in GDP growth until it plunged during the Great Recession . This period was marked by economic challenges, the rise of nationalism , and growing tensions with Russian Federation . In 2013, the Euromaidan protests began in response to President Viktor Yanukovych ’s rejection of an EU association agreement . The Revolution of Dignity followed, leading to Yanukovych’s ousting. Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and supported separatist movements in Donbas , initiating

5016-449: The end of the 7th century, the Bulgars faced increasing pressure from neighboring tribes and empires. Most of the Bulgar tribes migrated in various directions—some settled in the Balkans , where they eventually established the First Bulgarian Empire . Other groups moved towards the Volga region, forming Volga Bulgaria , which became a prominent center of trade and culture. The remaining parts of Old Great Bulgaria were eventually absorbed by

5104-599: The genesis of the later Yamna culture . The Yamna culture (ca. 3300–2600 BC), also known as the Pit Grave culture, was a dominant force in the early Bronze Age across the Pontic-Caspian steppe. This culture is often linked with the spread of Indo-European languages and reflects a shift toward a more mobile, pastoralist lifestyle. The Yamna culture is characterized by its burial mounds (kurgans), often accompanied by grave goods such as weapons , ornaments , and animal sacrifices . The economy relied heavily on livestock, including sheep , cattle , and horses , which supported

5192-656: The human being to the Almighty to bestow eternity on "a feeble soul stiff with the fear of death." The most precious relic of the church is the Wonder-working Icon of the Virgin Mary (17th century). It was brought to Lviv from Terebovlia in 1674 by bishop Joseph Shumlianskyi. In the Cathedral's tombs are buried distinguished figures of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church. Among them are Cardinal Sylvester Sembratovych , Metropolitan Andrei Sheptytsky , Major Metropolitan Josyf Slipyj , Metropolitan Volodymyr Sterniuk , and Cardinal Myroslav Ivan Lubachivsky . The architectural ensemble of St. George's Cathedral also includes

5280-474: The local Ruthenian traditions, and was gradually influenced by Ruthenian language , law and culture , until Lithuania itself came under Polish influence , following the Union of Krewo and Union of Lublin , resulting in two countries merging into Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth , leaving Ukrainian lands under the dominance of Polish crown . Meanwhile Southern Ukraine was dominated by Golden Horde and then Crimean Khanate , which came under protection of

5368-432: The mass baptism of the people of Kiev in the Pochaina River and built the first stone church in Kievan Rus' — Church of the Tithes . He also introduced the Charter on Church Courts and Tithes , thereby securing a strong relationship between the church and state. Unlike the earlier attempts of his grandmother, Princess Olga, Vladimir's reforms had a lasting impact, deeply influencing the religious and cultural development of

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5456-427: The midst of Perestroika , and began to reclaim parishes which they had ceded 45 years earlier. On August 12, 1990, members of the People's Movement of Ukraine party occupied and commandeered the cathedral. Two days later, the governing council of the Lviv Oblast recognized UGCC's claim to the cathedral, and it has remained a centre for the UGCC throughout the early years of Ukraine's independence . Restoration of

5544-425: The mother church of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC). After the Second World War , Soviet authorities began persecuting the UGCC, imprisoning the newly ordained Archbishop of Lviv, Josyf Slipyj , in 1945, as well as the rest of the church hierarchy. In March 1946, the cathedral hosted the Synod of Lviv , which nullified the Union of Brest. A young Volodymyr Sterniuk (future archbishop and leader of

5632-414: The name Rus' could be linked to the Ros River , a historically significant waterway flowing through present-day Ukraine , which was home to various Slavic communities. In this view, Rus' may have referred to a collective identity tied to a specific geographic region or a union of native tribes, rather than to foreign invaders or rulers. The first reliable mention of the Rus' dates back to the year 839 in

5720-544: The notable events in Scythian history was the campaign of Darius the Great in 513 BC. The Achaemenid Persian king led an expedition aimed at subjugating the Scythians. While the Scythians employed their signature scorched-earth and guerrilla tactics to evade outright defeat, the campaign resulted in the Persian domination of several Thracian peoples and regions along the Black Sea ’s northern coast. These territories, encompassing parts of modern-day Bulgaria , Romania , Ukraine , and southern Russia , were incorporated into

5808-405: The ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War . This escalated on 24 February 2022, with Russia’s full-scale invasion , marking a critical phase in Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The discovery of 1.4-million-year-old stone tools in Korolevo , located in western Ukraine, marks one of the earliest securely dated presences of hominins in Europe . These tools offer crucial insights into

5896-419: The principality fractured. The division of lands among Monomakh's sons and other relatives resulted in multiple competing power centers. The process of feudal fragmentation marked a turning point in the history of Rus', culminating in its eventual decline and the rise of smaller, more independent states. These would later evolve into the medieval powers of the Kingdom of Ruthenia , the Principality of Polotsk ,

5984-509: The region witnessed the rise and interaction of diverse peoples and cultures. Following earlier Bronze Age societies, the Dacians , alongside nomadic groups such as the Cimmerians (associated with the Novocherkassk archaeological culture ), Scythians , and Sarmatians , dominated the landscape. Among these, the Scythians established a powerful kingdom that flourished between 750 and 250 BC, characterized by their mastery of mounted warfare and trade networks spanning vast territories. One of

6072-420: The region. Vladimir's rule also saw administrative, monetary, and military reforms. He appointed governors and entrusted his sons with ruling major cities, also minted his own gold (Zlatnik) and silver (Srebrenik) coins, and granted borderlands to loyal vassals in exchange for military defense. To protect the realm, Vladimir oversaw the construction of an extensive system of defensive fortifications, known as

6160-431: The region. However, even into the 12th century, Byzantine emperors continued to claim dominion over the Crimean region, known as the Cimmerian Bosporus . Following the power vacuum left by the fall of Hunnic and Gothic dominance, the Early Slavs began to expand over much of the territory that is now Ukraine during the 5th century, continuing their migration into the Balkans in the 6th century. The exact origins of

6248-400: The rule of the Habsburg Monarchy . This division set the stage for the different historical trajectories of Ukrainian lands under Russian and Austrian influence. The 20th century began with a renewed struggle for Ukrainian statehood. Following the collapse of empires during World War I , the Ukrainian People’s Republic (UPR) was proclaimed in 1917 with Kyiv as its capital. Meanwhile, in

6336-465: The same geographic area. It is distinguished by its unique burial practices, where bodies were interred in specially carved niches within grave pits. They further advanced bronze metallurgy, producing a variety of tools, weapons, and ornaments. The Catacomb culture maintained many traditions of the Yamna culture while also interacting with neighboring groups to the west and south. During the Iron Age ,

6424-605: The subdued Slavs, which led to a rebellion by the Drevlians , who killed him in 945. Following Igor's death in 945, his widow, Princess Olga , assumed the role of regent for their young son, Sviatoslav , who was still too young to rule. Olga is best known for her calculated and fierce retaliation against the Drevlians, a campaign that culminated in the annexation of their lands into the expanding Kievan Rus'. Olga also implemented significant reforms, particularly by restructuring

6512-657: The subordination of the Hetmanate to the Tsar . The ambiguity of the treaty's terms and differing interpretations contributed to tensions over the following decades. Over time, the relationship between the Cossack Hetmanate and Muscovy evolved, with Muscovy increasingly asserting dominance. This process intensified in the late 17th and 18th centuries, especially after the Treaty of Andrusovo , which divided Ukraine between

6600-747: The territory among themselves, leading to further internecine conflicts and the eventual decline of centralized power. The feudal fragmentation of Kievan Rus' began in the late 11th century, driven by a complex interplay of internal and external factors. One significant factor was the rotational succession system, allowing power to pass among male relatives instead of directly from father to son. This system often sparked conflicts, as competing claims to power emerged. With princes often granted specific territories, autonomous principalities began to emerge clearly. Regional cities such as Chernihiv , Polotsk , and Novgorod gained power and asserted their independence, with local elites increasing their influence. By this time,

6688-535: The time, covering over 800,000 square kilometers and boasting a population of more than 5 million. The socio-economic structure of Kievan Rus' was similar to that of other European states of the period, characterized by a natural economy, communal land ownership, and reliance on slash-and-burn agriculture, and animal husbandry. Vladimir reformed local governance by abolishing the traditional tribal autonomies and installing his own appointed governors, further centralizing his authority. Under his rule, Kiev emerged as one of

6776-421: The time, with populations reaching up to 10,000 inhabitants. They built concentric layouts of houses, often using clay and wood , demonstrating advanced planning. They are renowned for their intricate painted ceramics , featuring geometric and symbolic designs in red, black, and white. Their economy was primarily agrarian, complemented by animal husbandry and small-scale trade. Archaeological findings suggest

6864-493: The title of Grand Prince of Kiev and worked to consolidate power across the vast territory, leading to conflicts with his brothers. Oleg , Sviatoslav's second son, governed the Drevlian lands, and rivalry between him and Yaropolk escalated into open warfare. During one of their clashes around 977, Oleg was killed, further intensifying the conflict. Initially, Vladimir , Sviatoslav's youngest son, fled to avoid being entangled in

6952-414: The tribe of Polans served as the organizers of Kievan Rus' state, beginning to name themself and their land Rus' in 9th century, a word that probably derived from Varangians , who laid the foundation of the state itself. It emerged as one of the most powerful and advanced nations of Europe at that time, with Kyiv meeting its golden age and Christianization under Vladimir the Great and Yaroslav

7040-645: The tribute collection system known as poliudie . This new system made revenue collection more systematic and centralized, reducing the likelihood of rebellion by ensuring a more balanced distribution of power. In a landmark decision, Olga became the first ruler of Kievan Rus' to embrace Christianity around 957 during a diplomatic visit to Constantinople. However, despite her conversion, the state under her rule remained predominantly pagan, with Christianity gaining influence only later under her descendants. When Sviatoslav assumed rule over Kievan Rus', he launched an ambitious military expansion. His most notable achievement

7128-541: The vast Achaemenid sphere of influence, though direct control remained tenuous. Meanwhile, Greek colonization left a lasting imprint on the region. Beginning in the 7th or 6th century BC during the Archaic period , Greek settlers established colonies along the northern Black Sea coast , including Crimea and parts of modern Ukraine. These colonies, such as Chersonesus and Olbia , served as hubs of trade, cultural exchange, and Hellenic influence. The Bosporan Kingdom ,

7216-489: The very heart of the Byzantine Empire , quickly reaching the city’s outskirts. According to accounts from Greek eyewitnesses, the Rus' not only managed to pillage the suburbs of Constantinople but also instilled widespread fear among its residents. The Byzantine defenses were unprepared, allowing the Rus' to withdraw without significant resistance. The earliest source about the history of the Middle Dnieper region

7304-415: The wealthiest commercial centers in Europe during the 10th and 11th centuries, benefiting from its strategic location on trade routes and its growing political influence. Initially, Vladimir supported the worship of Slavic deities such as Perun . However, in 988, he made a historic decision to convert Kievan Rus' to Christianity , adopting Eastern Orthodoxy from the Byzantine Empire . He personally led

7392-644: The western territories, the West Ukrainian People’s Republic (WUPR) was established in 1918, centered in Lviv . Both republics sought to unite, forming the Unification Act (Act Zluky) on 22 January 1919. However, their independence was short-lived. The UPR faced constant military conflict with Bolshevik forces, Poland , and White Army factions. By 1921, following the Soviet-Ukrainian War , Ukrainian lands were divided:

7480-580: Was deposed, and the kingdom was directly administered by Rome . Following Nero’s rule, the Bosporan Kingdom was restored as a Roman client state , retaining local governance but under Roman military oversight. This arrangement ensured the region remained within Rome’s economic and strategic sphere during the middle of the 1st century AD. In the 3rd century AD, the Goths , a Germanic people originally from Scandinavia , began migrating toward Eastern Europe . By approximately 250 to 375 AD, they had settled in

7568-421: Was mainly exported to Byzantium, with the proceeds used to purchase weapons , luxury goods , and wine —constituting the core of imports. When trade conditions no longer met the prince's expectations, he led an unsuccessful campaign against Constantinople in 941, which eventually resulted in a new Rus-Byzantine trade treaty in 944. The Tale of Bygone Years recounts Igor's attempt to levy additional tribute from

7656-410: Was only established in the 10th century. Therefore, modern historians view the Chronicle's account of the 9th century as largely speculative and likely a later construction by the Chronicle's author. Scholars associate the state-building processes in the Middle Dnieper region with the emergence of the well-known trade route from Scandinavia to Constantinople, known as the ' Route from the Varangians to

7744-525: Was the decisive defeat of the Khazar Khaganate , a once-dominant regional power that had controlled key trade routes for centuries. The fall of the Khazars opened opportunities for Kievan Rus' to extend its influence into the Caucasus and beyond. In addition to his campaigns in the east, Sviatoslav waged numerous battles against the Byzantine Empire , seeking to establish Kievan Rus' as a formidable power in

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